Proverbs 8

22–31 In these verses, the writer (taking the part of Lady Wisdom) outlines the role of wisdom in creation (see Proverbs 3:19–20 and comment). In verse 22, wisdom is said to be the first of [God’s] works; wisdom was given birth before the world began (verses 24–25). Because the writer refers to wisdom as a creation or “work” of God, he cannot be referring specifically to Jesus Christ, who has always coexisted with the Father. However, verses 22–31 do provide some background for the New Testament understanding of Christ.

Jesus (the Word) was the effective agent in creation (John 1:1–3; Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2). He is called the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24,30); in Christ are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:3). He is also called the firstborn over all creation³⁸ (Colossians 1:15). Jesus Himself said that He was with God before the world began (John 17:5). Therefore, verses 22–31 do point forward to Christ. In particular, in verse30, wisdom calls herself the craftsman at God’s side, who shared in the Father’s delight over what had been created; that “craftsman” was Jesus, the Father’s Son (see Colossians 1:16).

32–36 The writer concludes with a final exhortation to us—his sons—to listen to the instruction of wisdom. In verse 35, he says: For whoever finds me (wisdom) finds life (see Proverbs 3:18; 4:22) and receives favor from the LORD (see Proverbs 3:4). In Old Testament times, wisdom was the greatest treasure; it gave “life” to those who followed it. But in our time, Jesus Christ is a far greater “treasure” (Matthew 12:42), for He gives eternal life, eternal salvation, to those who follow Him (John 1:4; 3:16).