7 He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.
7 Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse.
7 Whoever corrects a scoffer gets himself abuse, and he who reproves a wicked man incurs injury.
7 If you reason with an arrogant cynic, you'll get slapped in the face; confront bad behavior and get a kick in the shins.
7 "He who corrects a scoffer gets shame for himself, And he who rebukes a wicked man only harms himself.
7 Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return. Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Proverbs 9:7
Commentary on Proverbs 9:1-12
(Read Proverbs 9:1-12)
Christ has prepared ordinances to which his people are admitted, and by which nourishment is given here to those that believe in him, as well as mansions in heaven hereafter. The ministers of the gospel go forth to invite the guests. The call is general, and shuts out none that do not shut out themselves. Our Saviour came, not to call the righteous, but sinners; not the wise in their own eyes, who say they see. We must keep from the company and foolish pleasures of the ungodly, or we never can enjoy the pleasures of a holy life. It is vain to seek the company of wicked men in the hope of doing them good; we are far more likely to be corrupted by them. It is not enough to forsake the foolish, we must join those that walk in wisdom. There is no true wisdom but in the way of religion, no true life but in the end of that way. Here is the happiness of those that embrace it. A man cannot be profitable to God; it is for our own good. Observe the shame and ruin of those who slight it. God is not the Author of sin: and Satan can only tempt, he cannot force. Thou shalt bear the loss of that which thou scornest: it will add to thy condemnation.