Explanatory Notes on the Whole Bible, by John Wesley, [1754-65], at sacred-texts.com
Proverbs 17:4
pro 17:4
False lips - To false accusations and calumnies, which give him occasion and encouragement to do mischief.
Proverbs 17:7
pro 17:7
Excellent speech - Discourse of high and excellent things.
Proverbs 17:8
pro 17:8
A precious stone - Pleasant and acceptable; and withal dazzles his eyes. Whithersoever - To whomsoever it is presented. But this, as also many of her proverbs, are to be understood of most men, not of all.
Proverbs 17:9
pro 17:9
Covereth - That conceals as far as he may, other mens faults.
Proverbs 17:11
pro 17:11
Rebellion - Against God. Messenger - Or, a cruel angel, the angel of death, the devil, or some bloody men employed by God to avenge his quarrel.
Proverbs 17:12
pro 17:12
Folly - In the heat of his lust or passion.
Proverbs 17:14
pro 17:14
Letteth out - By cutting the bank of a river. Leave off - Avoid the occasions, and prevent the beginning of contention.
Proverbs 17:16
pro 17:16
A price - Opportunities and abilities of getting it. No heart - Neither discretion to discern the worth of wisdom, nor any sincere desire to get it.
Proverbs 17:17
pro 17:17
Was born - Was sent into the world for this, that he might comfort and relieve his brother in adversity.
Proverbs 17:18
pro 17:18
Friend - Debtor, for whom being his friend, he becomes surety.
Proverbs 17:20
pro 17:20
No good - Shall not get that advantage which he expects.
Proverbs 17:22
pro 17:22
Doth good - Even to the body; it contributes much to bodily health and vigour. Drieth - Wastes the marrow of the bones, and the moisture and strength of the body.
Proverbs 17:24
pro 17:24
In the face - His wisdom appears even in his looks. The eyes - Minding most, those things which are remotest from him, and least concern him.
Proverbs 17:26
pro 17:26
To strike - Nor to smite magistrates, either with the hand or tongue, for the execution of justice.
