Chapter
Verse

Proverbs 10:17

ESV Whoever heeds instruction is on the path to life, but he who rejects reproof leads others astray.
NIV Whoever heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray.
NASB One who is on the path of life follows instruction, But one who ignores a rebuke goes astray.
CSB The one who follows instruction is on the path to life, but the one who rejects correction goes astray.
NLT People who accept discipline are on the pathway to life, but those who ignore correction will go astray.
KJV He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.
NKJV He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, But he who refuses correction goes astray.

What does Proverbs 10:17 mean?

The person who listens to godly advice (Proverbs 9:9) gives themselves a better likelihood of success and longevity than those who ignore wisdom. Those who follow Christ's teachings can enjoy a truly meaningful life now (John 10:10) and eternal life beyond the grave (John 10:28).

The person who refuses to be corrected (Proverbs 9:7–8) and continues the wrong path through life sets a bad example. In many cases, others will be tempted to follow that pattern. For that reason, Scripture warns against becoming close with those who hate God and His truth (Proverbs 13:20). Though the truths contained in God's Word offer forgiveness and life (1 Corinthians 6:9–11), the people defined as "scoffers" (Proverbs 1:22) make a litany of excuses for rejecting that message. This comes in the form of false accusations of contradiction, misleading criticisms, rejection of biblical morality, or claims of irrelevance. Some simply reject the Bible because it exposes their sin and makes them uncomfortable (Ephesians 5:11–13; 2 Peter 1:19; Psalm 119:105).

Unfortunately, many self-labelled "experts" with little legitimate knowledge of the Bible ridicule it and substitute faulty human reasoning in its place. Seemingly educated, or not, such critics of the Bible lead others astray.
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