"The Wisdom of Godly Communication", Dr. John E. Clay Jr., Ohio

Proverbs 18

18:1. Some people, out of selfishness, avoid friendly relations with others. Their self-centeredness makes them enemies of sound judgment (cf. 3:21; 8:14). Defies is lā‘aḡ, translated “mock(s)” in 1:26; 17:5; 30:17.
18:2. The double trouble of the fool is his “closed mind” and “open mouth” (Derek Kidner, The Proverbs: An Introduction and Commentary, p. 127). He does not really want to gain knowledge; he only wants to share his own views. His mouth “gushes folly” (15:2). Yet if he would keep quiet people would think he is wise (17:28). Results of a fool’s talkativeness are mentioned in 18:6–7.
18:3. Sinful living is accompanied by contempt, and with shame comes disgrace. These words of dishonor contrast with the benefits of upright, wise living, which include honor and dignity (4:7–9). In 18:3 an interesting progression is suggested: “contempt” leads to “shame” which leads to “disgrace” (cf. “disgraceful” in 10:5; 17:2).
18:4. Verses 4, 6–8, 20–21 refer to talking. Words … are like deep waters, possibly meaning water in a cistern, in that (as in 20:5) they are “hidden” or “of difficult access.” Words spoken out of wisdom, however, are fresh and bubbling like water from a fountain. Unlike the fool who airs his unwise and therefore unhelpful ideas (18:2), a wise person’s words are helpful and encouraging (cf. 10:11; 13:14).
18:5. Being partial to the wicked is an injustice condemned frequently in Proverbs (17:15, 26; 24:23; 28:21). Equally bad is depriving the innocent of justice in the courts (cf. 17:23).


 

Sid S. Buzzell, “Proverbs,” in The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, ed. J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1985), 944–945.