Proverbs 17:19 (BSB)

He who loves transgression loves strife; he who builds his gate high invites destruction.

From Proverbs 17. Also in the ESV.

Commentary on Proverbs 17:19

• Matthew Henry (Presbyterian), Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on Proverbs 17:19: Note, 1. Those that are quarrelsome involve themselves in a great deal of guilt: He that loves strife, that in his worldly business loves to go to law, in religion loves controversies, and in common conversation loves to thwart and fall out, that is never well but when he is in the fire, he loves transgression; for a great deal of sin attends that sin...
• John Gill (Reformed Baptist), Exposition of the Old and New Testaments on Proverbs 17:19: He loveth transgression that loveth strife,.... For strife is transgression, when it flows from a malignant spirit, is with bad views, about things to no profit, and for contention's sake; otherwise to contend earnestly for the truth; to strive together for the faith of the Gospel, for matters of moment and importance, and not mere words; to strive lawfully in a cause that is just...
• Jamieson-Fausset-Brown (Reformed), Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible on Proverbs 17:19: strife--contention is, and leads to, sin. he that exalteth his gate--gratifies a vain love of costly building. seeketh--or, "findeth," as if he sought (compare "loveth death," Pro 8:36).
• Geneva Bible Notes (Reformed), Geneva Bible Study Notes on Proverbs 17:19: He loveth transgression that loveth strife: [and] he that exalteth his gate seeketh destruction. (k) Lifts up himself above his degree.