This verse emphasizes the need for humility and a strong foundation. While the quest for knowledge is admirable, the arrogance that isolates, that does not take seriously the resources of wisdom and knowledge of others, leads to foolishness. Paul continually refers to this mindset in both letters to Timothy, writing of those who are forever learning but never come to a settled position. They are always seeking more knowledge. These people are generally unteachable because they do not value and respect the wisdom of others. Churches and individuals suffer from this isolationist mindset. “God will teach me everything I need to know personally; man’s thoughts are unimportant” sounds very noble, but ultimately is arrogant and foolish. God provides a foundation of knowledge through His word and through the history of faithful men. We should never elevate man’s ideas above God’s word, but we should highly value what God has taught others in the past, whether in book, confession, sermon, or personal interaction.