(Chapter 30)
The Words of Agur
All that we know about “Agur” is found in this chapter. He apparently had two students, “Ithiel and Ucal.” What follows in this chapter is what he taught them, and we are privileged to have it recorded in the Scriptures for our profit too.
He Was a Learner
(Vss. 2-3)
Agur took the place of knowing little, and confessed that he was only a learner himself (vss. 2-3). He abased himself and exalted God and His Word, thus illustrating the true humility enjoined in the Proverbs. However, we find in this chapter that he knew much more than most in Old Testament times! He communicates some important moral and practical principles that will preserve us in this world.
He Knew God
(Vss. 4-6)
First of all, Agur had a knowledge of God and His Son (vss. 4-6). This is remarkable because there had not yet been given to man the revelation of the Father and Son—which is formally disclosed in the ministry of our Lord Jesus (John 1:18). In a series of five questions he sets forth the greatness of God.
He Knew Himself
(Vss. 7-10)
Secondly, verses 7-10 indicate that Agur also had some knowledge of himself. He knew his own heart, and therefore, didn’t trust himself (Prov. 28:26). Having no confidence in the flesh leads to turning away from it, and casting ourselves on the Lord in dependence.
He Knew the True Character of the World
(Vss. 11-23
Furthermore, verses 11-23 show that Agur had an understanding of the true character of the world and summarized it in four series of four things. Each series depicts a different aspect of the world and its ways.
In the first series he speaks of the underlying moral principles that mark the men of the world—rebellion against the authority of parents (vs. 11), self-righteousness (vs. 12), pride (vs. 13), and greedy violence (vs. 14).
In the second series he speaks of the unsatisfied character of the world—four insatiable things. The people in its system are likened to “the grave,” “the barren womb,” “the earth” and “the fire.” None of these can get enough and are never satisfied (vss. 15-17).
In the third series Agur refers to four inscrutable things (vss. 18-19). They speak of the ulterior motives behind the actions of the people of the world. It has often been said that this world wants you for what it can get from you, and it is certainly true. They may have a seemingly gracious way about them, but behind their actions are often ulterior motives. The “eagle” that soars high in the air looks very beautiful, but it has a reason for doing it—to dive on its prey! The “serpent” slithering over a rock is an intriguing sight, but it’s searching for a victim! The “ship in the midst of the sea” is interesting, but it’s on a mission to some destiny for self. And, behind the gracious way of “a man with a maid” is often an effort to seduce and corrupt her! All four things are likened “an adulterous woman” who does her evil, and then tries to hide it (vs. 20).
In the fourth series of things, Agur speaks of four unbearable things, each describing the impropriety of those of the world who don’t know how to conduct themselves in the sphere in which they are found (vss. 21-23).
He Knew How to be Preserved From the Influences of the World
(Vss. 24-28)
The next series of four things indicate that Agur had an understanding of how the child of God can be preserved from the influences of the world (vss. 24-28). These are things that we need in order to go through this world and not be affected by it. He learned this wisdom from the animal kingdom (Job 12:7-10).
The first is the “ants” that gather their food in a time when they can get it—“summer.” This speaks of the importance of getting spiritual food for our souls (John 6:54-58). The greatest safeguard against being drawn into the world is to be found enjoying Christ, who is the spiritual food for our souls. Being filled with that which truly satisfies the heart will keep us from hankering after the things of the world.
The second is the “conies [rock-badgers].” They are creatures that recognize their weakness, and therefore, live in safe places—“in the rocks.” This speaks of dependence on the Lord. This, too, is something that we need—a felt weakness that leads us to cast ourselves on the Lord in whom there is safety (Deut. 33:12). He is the Rock of salvation (Psa. 95:1). The one who knows his own weakness and casts himself on the Lord will be preserved.
The third is the “locusts” that are characterized by going forth “by bands.” They are creatures that know how to keep in step with one another. This points to the need of keeping in company with fellow-believers of “like precious faith.” It speaks of fellowship, which is also important for our preservation (Psa. 119:63; Heb. 10:25; 2 Peter 1:1).
The fourth is the “spider [lizard].” What marks this wise creature is that he lives in the presence of the king—“in kings’ palaces.” This speaks of access into the presence of the Lord, the King of Kings, through prayer (Heb. 10:19; Eph. 3:12). A secret life of communion with the Lord and a constant living in His presence is essential to our being kept.
He Knew What was Necessary for an Effective Testimony to the World
(Vss. 29-31)
The final series of four things shows that Agur knew what was needed for the believer’s testimony to be effective in this world (vss. 29-31). The “lion” speaks of unflinching boldness to confess Christ (Prov. 28:1). The “horse” speaks of the defence of the faith that was once delivered to the saints (Jude 3; Prov. 21:31; Job 39:19-25; 2 Kings 9:33; 11:16). The “he-goat” who climbs high in the mountains, speaks of not getting discouraged. We need to stay above the adverse circumstances of life by climbing high above them (1 Sam. 30:6; Hab. 3:17-19). Lastly, the “king” against whom no one can rise up, speaks of maintaining the uncompromising standards of righteousness as found in the principles in the Word of God.
He Knew Not to Force Issues
(Vss. 32-33)
The last two verses of the chapter remind us that if our testimony to the world is not received, it won’t do any good forcing issues. It will only be counter-productive, generating strife. We must leave persons who reject our testimony with the Lord Who alone can change their hearts (Prov. 30:32-33; Psa. 33:15).