The last pericope of this chapter emphasizes the importance of persisting in the good practices that will lead to life. Success usually comes to those who keep concentrating on and perfecting the basics in their work. Our temptation is to leave these when we become adequately proficient. These verses give the reader a checkup on his or her condition.
Advocates of the "prosperity gospel"who teach that it is never God's will for anyone to be sick appeal to verses 20-22 as support for their position (along with Exod. 15:26; 23:25; Ps. 103:3; Isa. 33:24; Jer. 30:17; Matt. 4:23; 10:1; Mark 16:16-18; Luke 6:17-19; Acts 5:16 and 10:38).64
"By using ears, eyes, and heart, the teacher is exhorting the whole person to receive the traditions."65
"Heart"(v. 23) usually means "mind"(3:3; 6:32a; 7:7b; et al.), but it has a much broader meaning that includes the emotions (15:15, 30), the will (11:20; 14:14), and even the whole inner person (3:5).66Here the affections are particularly in view. With verses 20-22, verse 23 helps us see that the life in view is not some prize that one gains all at once. It is rather a growing spiritual vitality that enervates the wise person and enables him or her to reach out and help others effectively (cf. Mark 7:15-23; Luke 6:45; John 4:14 and especially 7:38).
One's words (v. 24) reflect his or her heart's affections. We must be singleminded in our pursuit of wisdom (v. 25; cf. Ps. 101:3; 119:37). We must also give attention to practical planning so we end up taking the steps we need to take to arrive at our destination (vv. 26-27; cf. Heb. 12:13).
