Proverbs 19:25
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Smite a scorner, and the simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, and he will understand knowledge.
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Tough love works, directly and indirectly! When you punish a scorner, you may shut his rebel mouth; but you will get the attention of any thinking about rebellion! By merely correcting a wise man, he will grow in knowledge. Look at the good that can be obtained by tough love, which is punishment and reproof of those needing it (21:11).
The present generation calls for gentle treatment of rebel children, criminals, and even prisoners of war! The nation has effeminized beyond young girls! Most churches now teach that coddling is the most effective treatment for sinners! Let God be true! Reproof, rebuke, and judgment must be restored in the house of God (I Cor 5:1-13; I Thess 5:14; II Tim 4:2; Titus 2:15). We must pray for holy men like Elijah, John the Baptist, and Paul!
When Jesus preached, common people rejoiced as they grew in knowledge (Mark 12:37; Luke 13:17; 19:48; 21:38). But scorners had their mouths shut and feared asking Him any more questions (Luke 13:17; 20:40). Israel had not heard such a preacher in a long time, for their politically correct, effeminate, and refined teachers were a shame (Mat 7:28-29).
Publicly punishing scorners has side benefits. Paul told Timothy, "Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear" (I Tim 5:20). Until you attend a church service where this occurs, you are missing a sober experience! Parents, if you must discipline a child, do it before the whole family for the other children's benefit. Public punishments and executions would bring wide national benefits (Deut 17:8-13; 19:16-21; 21:18-21).
Consider Bible examples. Stoning a man that scornfully picked up sticks on the Sabbath got the attention of Israel (Num 15:30-36). Stoning those who modified God's worship was effective for the whole church (Deut 13:6-11)! Ananias and Sapphira scorned the church of God and fell down dead to the revival of fear in that church (Acts 5:1-11)!
When punishment is not executed speedily, both scorners and the simple get hardened in their ways to do evil (Ecc 8:11). If you have authority in a home, workplace, government, or church, it is your duty to practice this proverb for the punishment of scorners and warning of the simple. Wisdom and righteousness are exalted and spread by such actions.
"A word to the wise is sufficient" is a common saying. It means that wise men need only a little reproof or instruction to learn (1:5; 9:9; 17:10). Because they have a good heart and seek correction, it is your duty to reprove and teach them (9:8; 25:12). Open rebuke is better than secret love, and the wounds of a friend are faithful (27:5-6; Lev 19:17).
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