The concept of A wise man in Christianity
In Christianity, a wise man is viewed as one who builds their life on faith and obedience, understanding life's purpose and setting meaningful goals. Gnosticism sees a wise man as a leader akin to Jesus, recognized as a prophet. The Catholic Church highlights wisdom as a state of mind free from passions, contrasting it with foolishness. Early Christianity presents a wise man as virtuous and prudent, equipped with good judgment and knowledge, embodying wisdom and truth in their actions.
Synonyms: Sagacious person, Prudent man, Discerning man, Knowledgeable person, Intelligent man, Sage, Philosopher, Thinker, Pundit, Scholar
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'A wise man'
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This describes a person who possesses wisdom, which the text argues should not fear death, and instead, should focus on making the people wise by advocating for truth.[1] (2) If any one had property, a house, a household of slaves, and his slaves, despising the forbearance of their master, should attack all things, and themselves take the enjoyment of his goods, if his household should honor them, while the master was despised by all, insulted, and deserted: could he be a wise man who should not avenge the insults, but permit those over whom he had power to have the enjoyment of his property?[2] (3) The text presents a proverb that says, "A wise man will understand that which proceeds from his own mouth, and on his lips he will bear prudence," which is mentioned in the text.[3] (4) This is a person with knowledge and good judgment, as the text suggests that a wise person does not trust rumors.[4] (5) A person, such as Socrates, who is considered wise, even by those who condemn their actions, because they are nearest in their search to the truth.[5]
From: Expositions of Holy Scripture
(1) This is the person who builds their house on the Rock, representing a life of faith and obedience, in contrast to the foolish man.[6] (2) A person who fully understands the purpose of life and aims towards meaningful goals.[7]
From: The city of God
(1) The text mentions a wise man, whose mind is not subject to mental passions, and the text discusses how a wise man's mind functions in comparison to a fool's mind.[8]
Gnostic concept of 'A wise man'
From: Fragments of a Faith Forgotten
(1) This refers to the way the Ebionites regarded their leader, Jesus, who they also viewed as a prophet and a manifestation of the Messiah.[9]