Proverbs 31: The Virtuous Woman

Introduction: Proverbs 31 is a well-known chapter in the Bible that is often referred to as the “Virtuous Woman” passage. This chapter provides a guide for women to live a life that is pleasing to God and is often used as a standard for Christian womanhood. This chapter is divided into two main sections, the first being advice from a mother to her son and the second being the description of the virtuous woman. This theological outline will explore the various aspects of Proverbs 31 and how it can be applied to our lives today.

I. Advice from a Mother to Her Son (Proverbs 31:1-9)
This section of Proverbs 31 is a mother’s advice to her son, King Lemuel, about how to be a wise and just ruler. She warns him against the dangers of women and strong drink, which can lead to a lack of judgment and injustice. This advice is still relevant today as we are called to be wise and just in all of our dealings.

Cross-references:

• Ephesians 5:18 – “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”
• 1 Timothy 3:2 – “Therefore an overseer must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, sober-minded, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach.”
• Titus 2:12 – “Training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.”

II. The Virtuous Woman (Proverbs 31:10-31)
This section of Proverbs 31 describes the qualities of a virtuous woman. She is hardworking, wise, and kind, and she is a blessing to her husband and children. She is also praised for her fear of the Lord, which is the foundation of her character.

Cross-references:

• 1 Peter 3:4 – “But let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God’s sight is very precious.”
• Titus 2:5 – “To be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.”
• Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”

Conclusion: Proverbs 31 is a guide for both men and women to live a life that is pleasing to God. The advice from a mother to her son is a reminder to be wise and just in all of our dealings, while the description of the virtuous woman is a standard for Christian womanhood. By following the principles laid out in this chapter, we can strive to be the people God has called us to be.