1. In our lesson we are concentrating on the subject Solomon mentioned in this verse -- "a word fitly spoken." 2. "A word fitly spoken" may be defined as saying: a. the right thing b. in the right way c. at the right time. 3. A more detailed definition is saying: a. the right thing b. at the right time c. in the right place d. to the right person e. in the right way f. for the right purpose. 4. Earlier, in Proverbs 15:23, Solomon mentioned "a word spoken in due season," and he indicated in general how good it is. 5. He was more specific about the beauty and value of "a word fitly spoken" when he compared it to "apples of gold in pictures of silver." 6. We are fortunate to have many examples of fitly spoken words in the Bible. 7. We are examining 6 examples that will help us. 8. As we go through our lesson let us keep in mind the words found in Colossians 4:6.
Discussion:
I. ABRAHAM HAD A WORD FITLY SPOKEN FOR ISAAC (Genesis 22:8)
A. On this occasion Abraham taught Isaac a powerful lesson about trusting in God's providential care -- a ram was provided (vs.13). B. The Lord also learned something special about Abraham (vs.11-12).
II. JOSEPH HAD A WORD FITLY SPOKEN FOR HIS BROTHERS AFTER THEIR FATHER DIED (Genesis 50:15-21)
A. Joseph's brothers were afraid that he would take vengeance on them. B. Joseph understood that God was behind everything that had happened, and he took care of his brothers and their families.
III. NAAMAN'S SERVANTS HAD A WORD FITLY SPOKEN FOR THEIR MASTER (2 Kings 5:13)
A. Naaman had been told what to do to be cleansed of his leprosy (vs.10). B. He reacted badly (vs.11-12). C. After listening to his servants he did what he was told to do, and he was cleansed (vs.14). D. The servants demonstrated great wisdom when they spoke to Naaman.
IV. JESUS HAD A WORD FITLY SPOKEN WHEN THE ADULTEROUS WOMAN WAS BROUGHT BEFORE HIM (John 8)
A. The situation is explained in vs.2-6. B. Jesus first had a word fitly spoken for the accusers (vs.7-9). C. Then He had a word fitly spoken for the woman (vs.10-11). D. Would this woman agree with Solomon's statement in Proverbs 25:11?
V. PETER HAD A WORD FITLY SPOKEN FOR JESUS (John 6)
A. According to vs.66, many of the Lord's followers left Him. B. Jesus reacted by asking the disciples a question (vs.67). C. Peter made a classic response in vs.68-69.
VI. PAUL HAD A WORD FITLY SPOKEN FOR THE JAILER IN PHILIPPI (Acts 16:27-34)
Conclusion:
1. Last week we studied passages that teach us about kindness. 2. One way we demonstrate kindness is through words fitly spoken. 3. Let us remember the request that David made in Psalm 19:14.
