Proverbs 17 - Wesley's Explanatory Notes

False lips — To false accusations and calumnies, which give him occasion and encouragement to do mischief.

Excellent speech — Discourse of high and excellent things.

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.

Covereth — That conceals as far as he may, other mens faults.

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.

Folly — In the heat of his lust or passion.

Letteth out — By cutting the bank of a river. Leave off — Avoid the occasions, and prevent the beginning of contention.

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.

Was born — Was sent into the world for this, that he might comfort and relieve his brother in adversity.

Friend — Debtor, for whom being his friend, he becomes surety.

No good — Shall not get that advantage which he expects.

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.

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.

To strike — Nor to smite magistrates, either with the hand or tongue, for the execution of justice.