A man’s gift opens doors for himThis phrase suggests that a person's talents, skills, or offerings can create opportunities and pathways to success. In biblical times, gifts were often used to gain favor or access, as seen in the story of Jacob sending gifts to Esau to appease him (
Genesis 32:13-21). The concept of gifts opening doors is also reflected in the New Testament, where spiritual gifts are given by the Holy Spirit to build up the church (
1 Corinthians 12:4-11). Theologically, this can be seen as a principle of divine providence, where God uses the abilities He has given individuals to fulfill His purposes.
and brings him before great men
In ancient cultures, presenting a gift was a common practice to gain an audience with someone of higher status, such as a king or ruler. This is exemplified in the story of the Queen of Sheba bringing gifts to Solomon (1 Kings 10:1-2). The phrase implies that a person's abilities or offerings can lead to recognition and influence, allowing them to stand before leaders and decision-makers. This can be seen as a type of Christ, who, through His ultimate gift of sacrifice, brings believers into the presence of God (Hebrews 10:19-22). The verse underscores the importance of using one's God-given talents wisely to impact the world and fulfill one's calling.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
SolomonThe author of Proverbs, known for his wisdom, wealth, and writings. He was the son of King David and Bathsheba and reigned as the king of Israel.
2.
Great MenRefers to individuals of influence, authority, or power. In the context of ancient Israel, this could include kings, nobles, or leaders.
3.
GiftIn the Hebrew context, the word "gift" ("mattanah") can refer to a present or offering, often given to gain favor or access.
Teaching Points
The Power of GenerosityGifts can pave the way for opportunities and relationships. Generosity can be a tool for influence and reconciliation.
Wisdom in GivingNot all gifts are material. Wisdom is needed to discern when and what to give, ensuring that our gifts align with God’s purposes.
Influence and ResponsibilityBeing brought before "great men" or people of influence carries responsibility. We must use such opportunities to glorify God and serve others.
Spiritual GiftsBeyond material gifts, God has given each believer spiritual gifts. These open doors for ministry and service within the body of Christ.
Integrity in GivingOur motives in giving should be pure, seeking to honor God rather than manipulate situations for selfish gain.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Proverbs 18:16?
2.How can we use our gifts to "open doors" for God's glory today?
3.What does Proverbs 18:16 teach about the power of generosity and influence?
4.How does Proverbs 18:16 connect with Jesus' teachings on giving in Luke 6:38?
5.In what ways can we ensure our gifts honor God and not self-interest?
6.How can we discern when to use our gifts to "usher us before great men"?
7.How does Proverbs 18:16 relate to the concept of divine favor and opportunity?
8.What historical context influenced the writing of Proverbs 18:16?
9.How does Proverbs 18:16 align with the broader themes of wisdom literature?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Proverbs 18?
11.Why boast about your own achievements?
12.Proverbs 18:22: Does finding 'favor from the Lord' by marrying imply that the single or the divorced lack divine blessing?
13.What does Proverbs 16:18 mean about pride?
14.What does the Bible say about personal responsibility?What Does Proverbs 18:16 Mean
A man’s gift- Scripture begins with a straightforward observation: each person possesses “gift” or “talent” entrusted by God.
•James 1:17 states, “Every good and perfect gift is from above.”
•Exodus 35:35 shows God filling craftsmen with skill, demonstrating that abilities originate in Him.
- The word “gift” may include:
• Natural abilities (1 Samuel 16:18—David’s skill on the harp)
• Spiritual endowments (Romans 12:6)
• Tangible resources, generosity, or hospitality (Acts 4:36-37)
- Because God is the giver, stewarding the gift honors Him and blesses others (1 Peter 4:10).
opens doors for him- Literally, a well-used gift creates opportunities.
•Genesis 41:14—Joseph’s capacity to interpret dreams leads from prison to Pharaoh’s palace.
•1 Samuel 16:21—David’s musical skill brings him into Saul’s court.
- The principle holds whether the gift is practical, relational, or material: diligence with what God supplies clears obstacles and gains hearing.
-Proverbs 22:29 reinforces the idea: “Do you see a man skilled in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.”
- God’s sovereignty orchestrates the “open doors” (Revelation 3:7-8), yet human faithfulness to cultivate the gift is expected (Matthew 25:14-30).
and brings him before great men- The culmination is not self-promotion but strategic positioning for influence.
•Esther 2:17—Esther’s favor positions her before the king, preserving her people.
•Daniel 1:17-20—God-given wisdom brings Daniel before Nebuchadnezzar.
- “Great men” can signify authorities, leaders, decision-makers—settings where a godly voice can shape outcomes (Acts 26:1 ff., Paul before Agrippa).
- Using a gift to gain access without integrity is condemned (Proverbs 17:23). The verse assumes righteous motives and honest stewardship.
summaryProverbs 18:16 teaches that the gifts God bestows, when exercised faithfully and generously, create divinely arranged opportunities and audiences with influential people. The verse encourages diligence, humility, and readiness to speak for God’s glory whenever those doors open.
(16)
A man's gift.--Judicious liberality "maketh room for him," helps him to make his way through life. (Comp.
Luke 16:9, and the advice there given so to use temporal riches as to gain those of heaven.)
Verse 16. -
A man's gift maketh room for him (comp.
Proverbs 19:6).
Mattam, "gift," has been taken in different senses. Some consider it to mean a bribe offered for underhand or fraudulent purposes; but the context does not lead to this conclusion, and the parallel passage mentioned above makes against it. Hitzig sees in it a spiritual gift, equivalent to
χάρισμα; but such a meaning is not elsewhere attached to the word. The term here signifies the present which duty or friendship offers to one whom one wishes to please. This paves a man's way to a great person's presence.
Bringeth him before great men. The Oriental custom of offering suitable gifts to one in authority, when a favour or an audience is desired, is here alluded to (comp.
1 Samuel 10:27;
1 Kings 4:21;
1 Kings 10:25). So the Magi brought gifts so the newborn King at Bethlehem (
Matthew 2:11). In a spiritual sense, the right use of riches opens the way to eternal life, evincing a man's practical love of God and man; as Christ says (
Luke 16:9), "Make to yourselves friends by means of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when it shall fail, they may receive you into the eternal tabernacles" (Revised Version).
Parallel Commentaries ...
Hebrew
A man’sאָ֭דָם(’ā·ḏām)Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 120:Ruddy, a human beinggiftמַתָּ֣ן(mat·tān)Noun - masculine singular construct
Strong's 4976:A presentopens doorsיַרְחִ֣יב(yar·ḥîḇ)Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 7337:To be or grow wide or largefor him,ל֑וֹ(lōw)Preposition | third person masculine singular
Strong's Hebrewand bringsיַנְחֶֽנּוּ׃(yan·ḥen·nū)Verb - Hifil - Imperfect - third person masculine singular | third person masculine singular
Strong's 5148:To guide, to transporthim beforeוְלִפְנֵ֖י(wə·lip̄·nê)Conjunctive waw, Preposition-l | Noun - common plural construct
Strong's 6440:The facegreat men.גְדֹלִ֣ים(ḡə·ḏō·lîm)Adjective - masculine plural
Strong's 1419:Great, older, insolent
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OT Poetry: Proverbs 18:16 A man's gift makes room for him (Prov. Pro Pr) 
