With a clear head we should try saying something that commends the physical descendants of Abraham in the land of Canaan. Let us remember that the wisest king of Israel married foreigners from east, north and south of his kingdom and worshipped their gods. On the scores sheet for monotheism, failure is written in all caps and in bold letters. Let us remember that a lack of humility kept Moses from “carrying water” for his people.

What it means to be faithful

The people addressed in pentateuch and by the prophets of the Bible have no reason whatever to even try to fabricate a narrative that says they were faithful to their god. That is not to say that they have not been instrumental in preserving for the world the documents of sacred revelation.  That is a service of faithfulness.  On the other hand, it is obvious that unbelief and a deep sleep have been the hallmark of the people’s experience. 

Wisdom’s foil

Wisdom will only be beholden to the evaluation and derision of her children.  Who can deny that Solomon was the wisest king in the Bible record, but he is also the most persistent idolater of the sons of Israel.  Solomon is also the husband of more foreign wives than there are days in a year.  It is nothing more than a foil when the followers of Moses and Jesus keep telling us that the wise are they who promise obedience and have not only a record of failure but have been indicted for rebellion.

The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of [by] her children. (Matthew 11:19)

Israelite rebellion is not sugar coated

But they rebelled, and vexed his holy Spirit: therefore he was turned to be their enemy, and he fought against them. (Isaiah 63:10)

But as for Israel He says, “All the day long I have stretched out My hands to a disobedient and obstinate people.” (Romans 10:21)

Jesus’ evaluation

“Did not Moses give you the Law, and yet none of you carries out the Law? Why do you seek to kill Me?” (John 7:19)

Wisdom’s children do not need anyone telling them what who or what wisdom is.