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Ecclesiastes Lesson Twenty-One

Ecclesiastes Lesson Twenty-One: Ecclesiastes 12:1-14 – Aging, Death, and Conclusion

So remember your Creator in the days of your youth: 

Before the days of adversity come, 

and the years approach when you will say, 

“I have no delight in them”; 

2 before the sun and the light are darkened, 

and the moon and the stars, 

and the clouds return after the rain; 

3 on the day when the guardians of the house tremble, 

and the strong men stoop, 

the women who grind cease because they are few, 

and the ones who watch through the windows see dimly, 

4 the doors at the street are shut 

while the sound of the mill fades; 

when one rises at the sound of a bird, 

and all the daughters of song grow faint. 

5 Also, they are afraid of heights and dangers on the road; 

the almond tree blossoms, 

the grasshopper loses its spring, 

and the caper berry has no effect; 

for man is headed to his eternal home, 

and mourners will walk around in the street; 

6 before the silver cord is snapped, 

and the gold bowl is broken, 

and the jar is shattered at the spring, 

and the wheel is broken into the well; 

7 and the dust returns to the earth as it once was, 

and the spirit returns to God who gave it. 

8 “Absolute futility,” says the Teacher. “Everything is futile.” 

9 In addition to the Teacher being a wise man, he constantly taught the people knowledge; he weighed, explored, and arranged many proverbs. 10 The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and write words of truth accurately. 11 The sayings of the wise are like goads, and those from masters of collections are like firmly embedded nails. The sayings are given by one Shepherd. 

12 But beyond these, my son, be warned: there is no end to the making of many books,  and much study wearies the body. 13 When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is: fear God and keep His commands, because this is for all humanity. 14 For God will bring every act to judgment, including every hidden thing, whether good or evil. (HCSB)

This will be the final lesson in our study of Ecclesiastes. I’ll be splitting this lesson into two parts.

  • Our final season of life – verses 1-8.
  • The conclusion: Fear God and obey Him – verses 9-14.

Our Final Season of Life

  • Chapter twelve begins with the phrase, “Remember your Creator.” There are several things to consider with this simple phrase.
    • It means much more than simply to “think about God.”
    • It means to “pay attention to, consider with the intention of obeying.”
    • It’s the author’s version of Matthew 6:33 But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.
    • It becomes easy to neglect God when we are involved in the enjoyment and opportunities of our youth.
    • Most of us understand that there will be dark and difficult days as we age. Therefore, we should make sure our spiritual foundation is strong as early in life as possible.
    • When we’re young, our days are bright, and we often feel invincible. But, the days will come when the darkness gathers, and one storm after another comes.
  • Verses two to seven should be viewed through metaphoric lenses.
    • Verse two.
      • This verse should be interpreted as talking about eyesight.
      • Both the sun and the moon dim as our eyesight fades.
      • It wouldn’t make sense to view this as literal rain, as the skies often clear after a rainstorm instead of things remaining dim.
      • As we age, our eyesight gets worse.
    • Verse three.
      • The guardians of your house refer to our arms and hands; as we age, they begin to shake or tremble.
      • The strong men are the major muscle groups, most likely referring to our legs, back, and shoulders.
      • The grinders are our teeth. As we age, we lose our teeth, or they weaken.
      • The windows once again refer to our vision.
    • Verse four.
      • The doors being shut refers to our hearing.
      • When we’re younger, we often shut doors to exclude outside noises.
      • As we age, we begin to lose our hearing.
      • However, this brings up a cruel paradox of old age.
        • We can’t hear as well as we used to.
        • At the same time, we sleep so lightly that the slightest disturbance is enough to wake us up.
      • The end of verse four could be referring to our hearing, or it could be a reference to our voice. As we age, our voice becomes shaky, and it weakens.
    • Verse five.
      • As we age and weaken, we become or intensify our fear of heights. Additionally, as our muscles weaken, we are more prone to falling as we walk down the street. Overall, it refers to a decline in our manliness.
      • The almond tree blossoms is a direct reference to our hair becoming gray or white as we age.
      • The reference to a grasshopper is a bit more obscure.
        • As we age, our overall strength diminishes. 
        • It could be a reference to our joints or a shuffling walk.
        • It could be a reference to impotence.
          • Caper berries were an aphrodisiac in biblical times.
          • As men age, these aphrodisiacs to enhance our desire no longer have any effect.
          • The Targum, the spoken version of the Hebrew Bible, paraphrases this section to read, “You will cease from sexual intercourse.”
      • The reference to man heading to his eternal home directly correlates to death. We’ll spend eternity either in God’s presence in heaven or eternally separated from God in hell.
      • People will mourn our deaths as they walk down the street.
    • Verse six.
      • The items listed in the first part of the verse would only be available to wealthy people. The author is indicating that death is no respecter of persons.
      • The second part of the verse is a reference to the water of life.
        • Psalm 36:8-9 They are filled from the abundance of Your house; You let them drink from Your refreshing stream, 9 for with You is life’s fountain. In Your light we will see light.
        • Revelation 21:6 And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give water as a gift to the thirsty from the spring of life.
        • The jar is shattered.
        • The wheel, the part that raises the bucket as water is drawn, is broken. The water of life is no longer being supplied.
        • The machinery of life stops working.
        • Death is suddenly upon us.
    • Verse seven.
      • Our bodies will decay once we die and will turn to dust.
        • Genesis 2:7 Then the Lord God formed the man out of the dust from the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and the man became a living being.
        • Genesis 3:19 You will eat bread by the sweat of your brow until you return to the ground, since you were taken from it. For you are dust, and you will return to dust.
      • The spirit of life, given by God, leaves our body once we die.
        • James 2:26a 26 For just as the body without the spirit is dead.
        • All life comes from God.
    • Verse eight.
      • The book ends with the same theme it began with: “Everything is futile.”
      • Life without God is an empty life.
      • When everything “under the sun” is considered, it does seem futile. However, when you surrender your life to Jesus, you realize life is fulfilling and has meaning.
      • 1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my dear brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the Lord’s work, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. 

The Conclusion: Fear God and Obey Him

As we conclude our journey through Ecclesiastes, it might be good to remember a quote from an unknown source, “Life is like a school, except that sometimes you don’t know what the lessons are until you’ve failed the examination!”

God teaches primarily from His Word, but He also teaches through creation, history, and life experiences. Let’s look at some characteristics of God’s teaching through the eyes of the writer.

  • His teaching is wise.
  • His teaching is orderly.
    • The author weighed his conclusions carefully and arranged them in an orderly fashion.
    • His approach was scientific.
  • His teaching is careful.
    • He used acceptable words.
    • This would draw the listener in instead of driving them away with coarse speech.
    • At the same time, he never wavered from speaking the truth or making the message “socially acceptable.”
      • Proverbs 8:6-11 Listen, for I speak of noble things, and what my lips say is right. 7 For my mouth tells the truth, and wickedness is detestable to my lips. 8 All the words of my mouth are righteous; none of them are deceptive or perverse. 9 All of them are clear to the perceptive, and right to those who discover knowledge. 10 Accept my instruction instead of silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. 11 For wisdom is better than jewels, and nothing desirable can compare with it.
      • John 1:17 For the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 
  • His teachings are inspired by God, given by the one Shepherd.
    • Inspiration by the Holy Spirit is what enabled men to write the Word of God, complete and without error.
    • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 All Scripture is inspired by God and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 
    • 2 Peter 1:20-21 First of all, you should know this: No prophecy of Scripture comes from one’s own interpretation, 21 because no prophecy ever came by the will of man; instead, men spoke from God as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
    • They contained both goads and nails.
      • The goads prod people to pay attention and to pursue the truth.
      • The nails give them something on which to hang what they’ve learned.
      • Good teaching requires both motivated students and teachers who can “nail things down” so the lessons make sense.
  • If we aren’t careful, we could misinterpret verse twelve as a negative outlook on learning. However, that is not the case.
    • It’s a warning not to go beyond what God teaches.
    • There are thousands of “religious” books on various subjects. But, we must be careful that the ones we read are grounded on Scripture and not “feel good” books that contradict what Scripture teaches.
    • Life is a school, and we must learn all we can. Our textbook is the Bible, and the Holy Spirit is our teacher.
      • Psalm 119:97-104 How I love Your instruction! It is my meditation all day long. 98 Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are always with me. 99 I have more insight than all my teachers because Your decrees are my meditation. 100 I understand more than the elders because I obey Your precepts. 101 I have kept my feet from every evil path to follow Your word. 102 I have not turned from Your judgments, for You Yourself have instructed me. 103 How sweet Your word is to my taste—sweeter than honey in my mouth. 104 I gain understanding from Your precepts; therefore I hate every false way.
      • John 14:26 But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit —the Father will send  Him in My name—will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you. 
      • 2 Peter 3:18a But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
  • We now reach the conclusion in verses thirteen and fourteen.
    • It’s interesting to note that Ecclesiastes ends with the same conclusion found towards the beginning of Proverbs (1:7), “Fear God.”
      • The fear of the Lord is an attitude of reverence and awe that His people show to Him because they love Him and respect His power and greatness.
      • Those who fear the Lord learn and obey His Word.
      • An unholy fear causes people to run from God, but a holy fear brings them into submission to God.
      • When you fear God, you don’t need to fear anything else. When you don’t fear God, you fear everything else.
      • Isaiah 8:13 You are to regard only the Lord of Hosts as holy. Only He should be feared; only He should be held in awe. 
      • Those who fear the Lord will keep His commands.
    • All of us will face judgment in the future. This judgment results in two emotions.
      • Those who don’t know God will live in fear of death. It doesn’t matter what they believe; death is something that will trouble them.
      • Those who have surrendered to Jesus live in joy; even death can’t trouble them. They know their future is secure, and they will live in eternity with God.
    • Everything that we do will be laid bare when we are judged. Nothing will remain hidden. 
    • Six times in Ecclesiastes, the author told us to enjoy life. However, at no time did he advise us to enjoy sin.
    • The joys of the present depend on the security of the future.
    • When we have placed our faith in Jesus Christ, we’ll find that life is indeed worth living. 
    • We’ll be satisfied no matter what happens to us.
    • 1 John 5:12 The one who has the Son has life. The one who doesn’t have the Son of God does not have life. 

Applications

  • Life is much shorter than we think, even for those of us who reach an old age. And the older you get, the faster time goes! Live your life for what’s important; don’t waste it chasing sin, whatever form it takes.
  • As we age, we must accept that our bodies won’t function as well as they used to. As I move into my mid-60s, I am reminded daily that my runs aren’t as fast as they used to be, and I can’t run as far as when I was younger. I forget things. My body is not as flexible, and the aches and pains don’t go away as quickly. I’ve learned to let go and not worry about these changes. There’s still too much to live for, and if I let these changes discourage me, I’ll miss out on what’s left to enjoy!
  • Look to Scripture first for the answers to life. Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms are not good sources for answers to life’s challenges and riddles. God’s Word is the only source of absolute truth.
  • Each of us will face judgment one day. Are you ready? Place your faith in Jesus Christ, enjoy life, and have peace about eternity.
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Ecclesiastes Lesson Twenty

Ecclesiastes Lesson Twenty: Ecclesiastes 11:1-10 – Invest in Life

Send your bread on the surface of the waters, 

for after many days you may find it. 

2 Give a portion to seven or even to eight, 

for you don’t know what disaster may happen on earth. 

3 If the clouds are full, they will pour out rain on the earth; 

whether a tree falls to the south or the north, 

the place where the tree falls, there it will lie. 

4 One who watches the wind will not sow, 

and the one who looks at the clouds will not reap. 

5 Just as you don’t know the path of the wind, 

or how bones develop in  the womb of a pregnant woman, 

so you don’t know the work of God who makes everything. 

6 In the morning sow your seed, 

and at evening do not let your hand rest, 

because you don’t know which will succeed, 

whether one or the other, 

or if both of them will be equally good. 

7 Light is sweet, 

and it is pleasing for the eyes to see the sun. 

8 Indeed, if a man lives many years, 

let him rejoice in them all, 

and let him remember the days of darkness, since they will be many. 

All that comes is futile. 

9 Rejoice, young man, while you are young, 

and let your heart be glad in the days of your youth. 

And walk in the ways of your heart 

and in the sight of your eyes; 

but know that for all of these things God will bring you to judgment. 

10 Remove sorrow from your heart, 

and put away pain from your flesh, 

because youth and the prime of life are fleeting. (HCSB)

I’ll be splitting this lesson into two parts.

  • Live by faith – verses 1-6.
  • Life is a gift, so enjoy it – verses 7-10.

Live by Faith

  • None of us will ever experience perfect circumstances throughout our lives. Still, we need to obey and trust God for the results.
  • If we wait for the perfect opportunity, it may never come, and life will pass us by.
  • The author uses two points to illustrate living by faith: a merchant sending out his ships and a farmer sowing seeds. In both cases, faith is needed since neither can control the circumstances surrounding their endeavors.
    • Merchant ships.
      • The phrase “Send your bread on the surface of the waters” is better understood as sending your grain on ships to other countries for trade.
      • Often, it would be months before the ships would return with their cargo. But, when they did return, the merchant’s patience would be rewarded with precious cargo or gold.
      • Verse two alludes to the fact the merchant would spread their cargo over several ships and not “putting all his eggs in one basket.”
      • But it can also mean that wealthy people should use their resources to help as many people as possible.
      • The phrase “You don’t know,” which appears three times in this section, is key.
        • We are ignorant of our future, but we can’t allow that ignorance to make us so fearful that we become careless or paralyzed.
        • It should make us careful when we plan and execute our plans.
    • Farmers.
      • Farming has always been challenging work, and this was especially true in biblical times in the Holy Land.
        • The soil was often rocky.
        • The farmers depended on early and late rains to grow their crops.
        • Weather prediction was an unknown science at the time, and the farmer was at the mercy of nature.
      • Verse three contrasts clouds and trees.
        • Clouds are constantly changing, and the hope is they will bring much-needed rain, but they also mean disasters can occur.
        • Trees are permanent. They stand in the same place unless a storm knocks them over. If they’re knocked over, they lie and rot.
    • The ships may encounter bad weather or be attacked by pirates, resulting in a loss to the cargo.
    • The farmer could encounter stormy weather or insects, both resulting in the loss of crops.
    • They’d never rise from their chair if both waited for the ideal time to conduct business.
    • Life always has a certain amount of risk, and that’s where faith allows us to overcome the hesitation to take action.
  • Verse four once again admonishes us not to wait for the perfect conditions, which will never happen anyway!!
    • The winds and clouds will constantly be changing and seldom ideal.
    • Those who look for an excuse to avoid activity will always find one that is suitable.
    • Life is an adventure. 
    • We must step out in faith, even when the circumstances seem less than ideal.
  • Verse five reminds us we’ll never know or understand the plans of God.
    • We won’t understand “the path of the wind” or how a baby is formed in the womb.
    • God has a time and purpose for everything.
    • We need to live by faith in His Word.
    • We also see a parallel with Jesus’ words to Nicodemus. John 3:8 The wind blows where it pleases, and you hear its sound, but you don’t know where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”
  • Verse six is a reminder to use each day wisely.
    • Don’t be lazy and sleep in. Get up and get to work.
    • Work with effort until the evening.
    • Ephesians 5:15-17 Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk—not as unwise people but as wise— 16 making the most of the time, because the days are evil. 17 So don’t be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is.
    • We need to trust God to bless at least some of our tasks. 
    • The closer we walk according to His plan, the more our work will be blessed.
    • But, also remember there are times we may not see the fruit of our work until later, or possibly even after we pass from this life. 
  • Life is an adventure of faith.
    • Each of us is like a merchant investing today in what will pay dividends tomorrow.
    • If we are consumed by worry and fail to take action, we will never accomplish anything.
    • Trust in God requires a call to action.
    • Our commitment must be wholehearted and ungrudging.
    • The famous concert pianist Arthur Rubinstein once said, “Of course, there is no formula for success except perhaps an unconditional acceptance of life and what it brings.”

Life is a Gift, So Enjoy It

  • This is the sixth and final admonition from the author that we accept life as a gift and learn to enjoy all that God shares with us.
    • Ecclesiastes 2:24 There is nothing better for man than to eat, drink, and enjoy his work.  I have seen that even this is from God’s hand.
    • Ecclesiastes 3:12-15, 22 I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice and enjoy the good life. 13 It is also the gift of God whenever anyone eats, drinks, and enjoys all his efforts. 14 I know that all God does will last forever; there is no adding to it or taking from it. God works so that people will be in awe of Him. 15 Whatever is, has already been, and whatever will be, already is. God repeats what has passed…I have seen that there is nothing better than for a person to enjoy his activities because that is his reward. For who can enable him to see what will happen after he dies?
    • Ecclesiastes 5:18-20 Here is what I have seen to be good: it is appropriate to eat, drink, and experience good in all the labor one does under the sun during the few days of his life God has given him, because that is his reward. 19 God has also given riches and wealth to every man, and He has allowed him to enjoy them, take his reward, and rejoice in his labor. This is a gift of God, 20 for he does not often consider the days of his life because God keeps him occupied with the joy of his heart.
    • Ecclesiastes 8:15 So I commended enjoyment because there is nothing better for man under the sun than to eat, drink, and enjoy himself, for this will accompany him in his labor during the days of his life that God gives him under the sun. 
    • Ecclesiastes 9:7-10 Go, eat your bread with pleasure, and drink your wine with a cheerful heart, for God has already accepted your works. 8 Let your clothes be white all the time, and never let oil be lacking on your head. 9 Enjoy life with the wife you love all the days of your fleeting life, which has been given to you under the sun, all your fleeting days. For that is your portion in life and in your struggle under the sun. 10 Whatever your hands find to do, do with all your strength, because there is no work, planning, knowledge, or wisdom in Sheol where you are going.
  • We need to live with an attitude of rejoicing.
    • We should anticipate each new day and accept it as a gift from God.
    • Deuteronomy 33:25 May the bolts of your gate be iron and bronze, and your strength last as long as you live. 
    • Enjoy each day, even those that present a challenge or may seem difficult.
    • 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 Rejoice always! 17 Pray constantly. 18 Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 
    • Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
    • This attitude is especially true the younger you are.
      • Take advantage of the days of your youth.
      • As we get older, our bodies weaken, and our minds dim; we cannot accomplish or enjoy life as much as we used to.
      • At the same time, being youthful isn’t a free license to live in a manner contrary to God’s teaching and follow our internal sinful desires.
      • Mark 7:20-23 Then He said, “What comes out of a person—that defiles him. 21 For from within, out of people’s hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immoralities, thefts, murders, 22 adulteries,  greed,  evil actions, deceit, promiscuity, stinginess,  blasphemy, pride, and foolishness. 23 All these evil things come from within and defile a person.”
      • The author reinforces this point at the end of verse nine, “But know that for all these things God will bring you to judgment.”
    • In the final verse of this lesson, the word “sorrow” in the original Hebrew has the following meanings: anger, bitterness, grief, indignation, or provocation.
      • If we are living in alignment with God’s will, we should have the peace of God in our hearts. Philippians 4:6-9 Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses every thought, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable,  whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable—if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise—dwell on these things. 9 Do what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.
      • Life is all too short, which we often don’t realize until we get older. There’s no reset button on our lives.
      • The best way to have a happy adult life and contented old age is to get a good start early and avoid the things that will bring trouble later in life.
      • Young people who take care of their minds and bodies, avoid the destructive sins of the flesh, and build good habits of health and holiness will have a better chance for happy adult years than those who “sow their wild oats” and pray for a crop failure.
      • Charles Spurgeon once said, “Youthful sins lay a foundation for aged sorrows.

Applications

  • Live in obedience to God’s Word. When we do this, it doesn’t mean we won’t have tough times or face trials. It does mean that as we face these challenges, walk by faith, and place our trust in God, He will see us through to the end of these trials. Sometimes, we face trials to grow our faith or to prepare us for future Kingdom work. 
  • Don’t wait for our perceived “perfect time.” Often, the perfect time will never happen, and we’re left at the starting line of life, wondering why we’ve missed out on opportunities. Life is not risk-free. At the same time, we need to balance risk-taking and risk mitigation. Being foolish is not being faithful. 
  • Make the most of your time each day. As we get older, we often regret not making the most of our time when we were younger. It’s impossible to reset the “clock of life.” 
  • Enjoy life and rejoice in what God has given you. For each person, it’s different. Yet, regardless of our circumstances, we should rejoice as we walk in obedience to God, knowing that when we place our faith in Christ, our eternal future and everlasting rejoicing are made secure.
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Ecclesiastes Lesson Nineteen

Ecclesiastes Lesson Nineteen: Ecclesiastes 10:1-20 – Wisdom Preferable to Folly

 Dead flies make a perfumer’s oil ferment and stink; 

so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor. 

2 A wise man’s heart goes to the  right, 

but a fool’s heart to the left. 

3 Even when the fool walks along the road, his heart lacks sense, 

and he shows everyone he is a fool. 

4 If the ruler’s anger rises against you, don’t leave your place, 

for calmness puts great offenses to rest. 

5 There is an evil I have seen under the sun, an error proceeding from the presence of the ruler:

6 The fool is appointed to great heights, 

but the rich remain in lowly positions. 

7 I have seen slaves on horses, 

but princes walking on the ground like slaves. 

8 The one who digs a pit may fall into it, 

and the one who breaks through a wall may be bitten by a snake. 

9 The one who quarries stones may be hurt by them; 

the one who splits trees may be endangered by them. 

10 If the ax is dull, and one does not sharpen its edge, 

then one must exert more strength; 

however, the advantage of wisdom is that it brings success. 

11 If the snake bites before it is charmed, 

then there is no advantage for the charmer. 

12 The words from the mouth of a wise man are gracious, 

but the lips of a fool consume him. 

13 The beginning of the words of his mouth is folly, 

but the end of his speaking is evil madness. 

14 Yet the fool multiplies words. 

No one knows what will happen, 

and who can tell anyone what will happen after him? 

15 The struggles of fools weary them, 

for they don’t know how to go to the city. 

16 Woe to you, land, when your king is a youth 

and your princes feast in the morning. 

17 Blessed are you, land, when your king is a son of nobles 

and your princes feast at the proper time— 

for strength and not for drunkenness. 

18 Because of laziness the roof caves in, 

and because of negligent hands the house leaks. 

19 A feast is prepared for laughter, 

and wine makes life happy, 

and money is the answer for everything. 

20 Do not curse the king even in your thoughts, 

and do not curse a rich person even in your bedroom, 

for a bird of the sky may carry the message, 

and a winged creature may report the matter. (HCSB)

I’ll be dividing this lesson into five segments.

  • Introduction – verses 1-3.
  • The foolish ruler – verses 4-7.
  • Foolish workers – verses 8-11.
  • Foolish talkers – verses 12-15.
  • Foolish officers – verses 16-20.

Introduction

  • In Ecclesiastes 7:1, the writer says, “A good name is better than fine perfume.”
  • Now, he shows that a good name can be easily lost.
    • How often have we seen or read about someone well-respected who chooses the wrong words or comments that offend a group of people? Almost instantaneously, they have lost their good reputation. They have a “dead fly in their perfume.” 
    • Or one foolish act or decision causing the same result.
    • There’s a saying that “one aw shucks does away with a lot of atta boys.”
  • Why are some people wise and others foolish? It’s connected with their heart.
    • The wise person chooses the right direction.
    • The foolish person chooses the wrong direction.
    • Our heart will guide us for both right and wrong.
  • In the ancient world, the right hand was the place of power and honor, while the left represented weakness and rejection.
    • Matthew 25:33-34 He will put the sheep on His right and the goats on the left. 34 Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.
    • Many people also considered the left side to be unlucky.
  • Since a foolish person doesn’t have wisdom, they are attracted to the wrong or left side.
  • Even if the foolish person walks along the road, they’ll gravitate to the wrong side, showing everyone along the path that they are foolish.

Foolish Ruler

  • In this section, the terms fools, slaves, rich, and princes don’t refer to social status. They refer to moral character.
    • The fools and slaves are not worthy of advancement.
    • The rich and princes are people who possess noble character.
  • If anyone needs wisdom, it’s the ruler of a nation.
    • When God asked Solomon what gift he wanted, the king asked for wisdom.
    • President Lyndon Johnson once said, “A president’s hardest task is not to do what’s right, but to know what’s right.”
  • The picture painted in this section is of a proud ruler who is easily angered and takes out his anger on the attendants around him.
    • If a person can’t control themselves, how can he hope to control his people?
    • Proverbs 25:28 A man who does not control his temper is like a city whose wall is broken down.
    • At the same time, just because the ruler acts like a fool doesn’t mean the attendants must follow suit.
      • That’s the worst thing you can do. Ecclesiastes 8:3 Do not be in a hurry; leave his presence, and don’t persist in a bad cause, since he will do whatever he wants.
      • It’s better to exhibit wisdom and patience. Proverbs 25:15 A ruler can be persuaded through patience, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.
  • There is a thing called righteous anger that sometimes does need to be displayed.
    • Ephesians 4:26 Be angry and do not sin. Don’t let the sun go down on your anger.
    • However, we must be careful that righteous anger isn’t confused with jealousy and malice.
    • Not every religious crusader is motivated by love for God or obedience to Scripture.
  • At the same time, rulers need to execute sound decisions.
    • If the ruler lacks character and courage, he will put fools in high positions in the government while placing more qualified people in lower offices.
      • Proverbs 19:10 Luxury is not appropriate for a fool — how much less for a slave to rule over princes!
      • Proverbs 30:21-22a The earth trembles under three things; it cannot bear up under four: 22 a servant when he becomes king.
    • The story of Rehoboam in 1 Kings 12:1-24 is a great example.
      • He ignored the advice of the wise counselors.
      • Instead, he listened to the foolish advice of his young friends.
  • The best rulers and leaders are tough-minded but tenderhearted, who put the best people in the right positions and don’t apologize for it. 

Foolish Workers

  • Admittedly, this section has perplexed scholars regarding its meaning.
  • Was the writer saying that every job has dangers associated with it?
    • Why did he take so much space to illustrate the thought if this was the case?
    • The theme is folly, but he wasn’t teaching that hard work was folly because you might get injured.
    • Throughout Ecclesiastes, the author has emphasized the importance of honest work and the joy it brings.
  • There are two primary schools of thought.
    • The first describes people who attempted work and suffered because they were foolish in how they did their work.
      • A man digs a pit, maybe a well or a place to store grain, and doesn’t take proper precautions and ends up falling into it.
      • Another man breaks through a wall, only to be bitten by a snake.
        • Snakes often hide in crevices or cracks.
        • Not taking care to make sure there weren’t any snakes hiding where work was being done is being foolish.
      • Careless workers can be injured cutting stones or splitting tree logs.
    • Verse ten could be summarized by the thought, “Work smarter, not harder.”
      • A man attempts to cut down trees or cut the tree into logs.
      • However, his ax head is dull.
      • The wise worker would stop and sharpen the ax before proceeding, making his job easier.
      • The foolish worker would blindly trudge ahead, using a dull ax, expending more energy and taking more time.
  • The second line of thought is that the author is using two pairs of aphorisms to talk about political counselors.
    • The first pair, in verses 8-9, concerns the instabilities of political life.
      • Verse 8 is talking about those who plot evil against others. Often, their plans backfire.
      • Verse 9 talks about those who are engaged in legitimate activity and being hurt in the process. Even those who serve fairly and justly can see their efforts blow up in their face.
    • The wise counselor can avoid these negative outcomes.
      • By avoiding wasted effort – verse 10.
      • By avoiding personal danger – verse 11.

Foolish Talkers

  • The Book of Proverbs contains many references to the speech of fools. In this section, the author points out four characteristics of foolish speech.
  • There are destructive words – verse 12.
    • A wise person will speak gracious words suited to the listener or the occasion.
      • Proverbs 10:32a The lips of the righteous know what is appropriate.
      • Proverbs 25:11 A word spoken at the right time is like gold apples on a silver tray.
    • Destructive words are compared to weapons of war, fire, or a poisonous beast.
      • Proverbs 25:18 A man giving false testimony against his neighbor is like a club, a sword, or a sharp arrow.
      • James 3:5-6 So too, though the tongue is a small part of the body, it boasts great things.  Consider how large a forest a small fire ignites. 6 And the tongue is a fire. The tongue, a world of unrighteousness, is placed among the parts of our bodies. It pollutes the whole body, sets the course of life on fire, and is set on fire by hell.
      • James 3:7-8 Every sea creature, reptile, bird, or animal is tamed and has been tamed by man, 8 but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
    • We hurt ourselves the most when we use destructive words.
      • Proverbs 13:3 The one who guards his mouth protects his life; the one who opens his lips invites his own ruin.
      • Proverbs 21:23 The one who guards his mouth and tongue keeps himself out of trouble.
  • There are unreasonable words – verse 13.
    • As soon as a person opens their mouth, you can tell they have no idea what they are talking about.
    • Often, the longer these individuals talk, the crazier they get.
    • Titus 1:10a For there are also many rebellious people, full of empty talk and deception.
    • The Jewish writer Shalom Aleichem said, “You can tell when fool speaks: he grinds much and produces little.”
  • There are uncontrolled words – verse 14a.
    • A foolish person is full of words without realizing they are saying nothing of substance.
    • Proverbs 10:19a When there are many words, sin is unavoidable.
    • A person who can control their tongue can control their entire body. James 3:1-2 Not many should become teachers, my brothers, knowing that we will receive a stricter judgment, 2 for we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says,  he is a mature man who is also able to control his whole body.
  • There are boastful words – verses 14b-15.
    • Foolish people talk about the future as if they know what will occur or if they can control the outcome.
    • Proverbs 27:1 Don’t boast about tomorrow, for you don’t know what a day might bring.
    • There’s even a bit of humor here.
      • The fool boasts about their future plans.
      • They wear out others with their boastful talk.
      • But the fool can’t even find their way into the city.
      • Since roads were marked in Bible times with the names of cities, a traveler could easily find the right path. Yet, the fool is so busy talking about the future they can’t find their way in the present.

Foolish Officers

  • The author now talks about the folly of officers working under rulers. He lists four characteristics of these foolish men.
    • They engaged in indulgence – verses 16-17.
      • If the leader is immature, those they place around themself will reflect that immaturity.
      • The immature subordinates will take advantage of the situation for personal gain.
      • If the leader is of a noble character, they will surround themself with noble subordinates who place the good of the country first.
      • True leaders use their authority to build the nation.
      • Officeholders use the nation’s resources to build their authority and personal gain.
      • The appointment of an immature leader can be viewed as God’s judgment. Isaiah 3:1-5 Observe this: The Lord God of Hosts is about to remove from Jerusalem and from Judah every kind of security: the entire supply of bread and water, 2 the hero and warrior, the judge and prophet, the fortune-teller and elder, 3 the commander of 50 and the dignitary, the counselor, cunning magician,  and necromancer. 4 “I will make youths their leaders, and the unstable will govern them.” 5 The people will oppress one another, man against man, neighbor against neighbor; the youth will act arrogantly toward the elder, and the worthless toward the honorable.
    • They were incompetent – verse 18.
      • The foolish officers were so busy with enjoyment that they had no time to do their work.
      • Both the buildings and the organization began to crumble.
      • Proverbs 18:9 The one who is truly lazy in his work is brother to a vandal.
      • Immature people enjoy the privileges and ignore the responsibilities.
      • Mature people see responsibilities as privileges and use them to help others.
    • They were indifferent – verse 19.
      • The personal philosophy of the foolish officers is captured here.
        • Eat all you can.
        • Enjoy all you can.
        • Get all you can.
      • They are indifferent to the responsibilities of their office or the needs of the people.
      • 1 Timothy 6:10a For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.
    • They practiced indiscretion – verse 20.
      • Even when we can’t respect the person in the office, we must respect the office. 
      • Romans 13:1-7 Everyone must submit to the governing authorities,  for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God. 2 So then, the one who resists the authority is opposing God’s command, and those who oppose it will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have its approval. 4 For government is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, because it does not carry the sword for no reason. For government is God’s servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong. 5 Therefore, you must submit, not only because of wrath, but also because of your conscience. 6 And for this reason you pay taxes, since the authorities are God’s public servants, continually attending to these tasks.  7 Pay your obligations to everyone: taxes to those you owe taxes, tolls to those you owe tolls, respect to those you owe respect,  and honor to those you owe honor. 
      • Regardless of how careful a person thinks they are, when evil words are spoken, there is a great likelihood that the message will be passed. This is especially true when the one passing the message thinks they can profit from sharing it.

Applications

  • Walk in wisdom. While this may seem like common sense, in today’s world, it gets harder each day. What the world views as wisdom, Scripture would say, is foolishness. At the end of our days, we won’t answer to family, friends, or co-workers about our decisions. We’ll answer to the God of the universe. What will He say about our choices?
  • Give your work an honest effort. Do your best, plan carefully, and give God the glory.
  • Watch what you say. Once the words have left your mouth, putting them back is impossible. You can hurt others, yourself, or the situation you’re talking about. 
  • Always act with integrity. People may not be watching, but God observes everything you do. What would He say about your actions?
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Ecclesiastes Lesson Eighteen

Ecclesiastes Lesson Eighteen: Ecclesiastes 9:11-18 – Wisdom’s Limits

Again I saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift, or the battle to the strong, or bread to the wise, or riches to the discerning, or favor to the skillful; rather, time and chance happen to all of them. 12 For man certainly does not know his time: like fish caught in a cruel net or like birds caught in a trap, so people are trapped in an evil time as it suddenly falls on them. 

13 I have observed that this also is wisdom under the sun, and it is significant to me: 14 There was a small city with few men in it. A great king came against it, surrounded it, and built large siege works against it. 15 Now a poor wise man was found in the city, and he delivered the city by his wisdom. Yet no one remembered that poor man. 16 And I said, “Wisdom is better than strength, but the wisdom of the poor man is despised, and his words are not heeded.” 

17 The calm words of the wise are heeded 

more than the shouts of a ruler over fools. 

18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war, 

but one sinner can destroy much good. (HCSB)

I’ll be splitting this lesson into two parts.

  • Persevere in life – verses 11-12.
  • Power and limitations of wisdom – verses 13-18.

Persevere in Life

The author closed the last section by talking about death. Now, he turns his attention to making 

the most out of our lives.

  • One point the author puts forward here is that life is unpredictable, no matter our abilities.
    • The fastest don’t always win the race.
    • The strongest warriors don’t always win the battle.
    • The wisest don’t always have the most “stuff”: money and possessions.
    • In each case, those most seemingly destined for success can, and often fail, because of circumstances outside their control.
  • We may innocently believe that people are lucky when they succeed, and others are unlucky when they fail.
  • However, Christians shouldn’t believe in luck. That’s an abstract concept when compared against God’s sovereign will.
    • We shouldn’t carry a rabbit’s foot.
    • We shouldn’t place our faith in lucky or unlucky days or numbers. Friday the 13th is no different than Friday the 14th.
  • Our confidence should be in the loving providence of God, wholly based on His timing.
  • There’s a saying, “I’m a great believer in luck. The harder I work, the more I have of it.” 
  • From the human perspective, life can seem arbitrary. But from a theological perspective, it all makes perfect sense. God is working according to His eternal purposes.
  • The author’s final thought is contained in the last part of verse twelve.
    • The “evil time” is the event of our physical death.
    • In most cases, we have no idea when it will happen. 
    • There could be an accident.
    • A medical diagnosis could result in very little time before passing.
    • In each case, it is like falling into an unexpected trap that catches the person completely unaware.

Power and Limitations of Wisdom

In the second section of this lesson, we see that opportunities are not a guarantee of success. There is some disagreement among scholars on the interpretation of verses 14-15, but we’ll go over the possibilities.

  • The minority position is that the poor wise man was asked for his advice, but he was ultimately ignored.
    • But there are two problems with this position.
      • The Hebrew word for “delivered is malat. This word means to rescue or save. 
      • The wording of verses 17-18.
        • Calm words of the wise are heeded.
        • Wisdom is better than weapons of war.
    • Both phrases imply the advice was used.
  • The majority position is that the advice was heeded.
    • The poor wise man’s advice could have been in one of two areas.
      • Diplomacy – the advice led to some agreement without hostilities.
      • Military strategy – the advice led to a military victory against the invaders.
    • Regardless of which one it was, and regardless of the low stature of the man giving the advice, his advice was heeded, and it led to a satisfactory outcome of the city not being attacked.
  • There is another angle to this example. Was the writer referring to an actual siege he had witnessed, or is this an allegory?
    • Jewish allegory from a targum, which is an oral paraphrase or interpretation of the Hebrew Old Testament in Aramaic.
      • The city represents a person whose body has been invaded by an evil spirit.
      • The poor, wise man stands for the good but humble spirit that wages war against the evil spirit.
      • This targum would likely have been used in synagogues during Jesus’ time to represent the spiritual struggle that takes place within a person.
    • Christian allegory. There are parallels to the gospel message in the New Testament.
      • Man’s soul is under siege by the forces of darkness. Ephesians 6:12 For our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the world powers of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavens. 
      • Christ is the wise man. 1 Corinthians 1:30 But it is from Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who became God-given wisdom for us—our righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.
      • Christ became poor for our sake. Philippians 2:7-8 Instead He emptied Himself by assuming the form of a slave, taking on the likeness of men. And when He had come as a man in His external form, 8 He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death—even to death on a cross. 
      • Christ’s atoning sacrifice is God’s wise way of delivering man from the city of destruction. 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but it is God’s power to us who are being saved. 19 For it is written: I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and I will set aside the understanding of the experts. 20 Where is the philosopher? Where is the scholar? Where is the debater of this age?  Hasn’t God made the world’s wisdom foolish? 21 For since, in God’s wisdom, the world did not know God through wisdom, God was pleased to save those who believe through the foolishness of the message preached. 22 For the Jews ask for signs and the Greeks seek wisdom, 23 but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles. 24 Yet to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is God’s power and God’s wisdom, 25 because God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God’s weakness is stronger than human strength.
      • Christ was greeted with ingratitude. Luke 17:11-19 While traveling to Jerusalem, He passed between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As He entered a village, 10 men with serious skin diseases met Him. They stood at a distance 13 and raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14 When He saw them, He told them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And while they were going, they were healed. 15 But one of them, seeing that he was healed, returned and, with a loud voice, gave glory to God.  16 He fell facedown at His feet, thanking Him. And he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus said, “Were not 10 cleansed? Where are the nine? 18 Didn’t any return to give glory to God except this foreigner?” 19 And He told him, “Get up and go on your way. Your faith has made you well.”
  • The writer draws some conclusions over the final three verses.
    • Wisdom is better than strength.
      • God’s way is better than man’s.
        • The Gospel is a stumbling block to some and foolishness to others – 1 Corinthians 1:23 But we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles.
        • Many will despise the Gospel and drown out its proclamation, but it should and will be heard.
        • Paul’s sermon on Mars Hill got a mixed reception. Acts 17:32-34 When they heard about resurrection of the dead, some began to ridicule him. But others said, “We’d like to hear from you again about this.” 33 Then Paul left their presence. 34 However, some men joined him and believed, including Dionysius the Areopagite, a woman named Damaris, and others with them. 
      • Looking back through the recent history of the Christian church, we see further examples of this.
        • George Whitefield, John and Charles Wesley often met violent opposition as they preached the Gospel in open-air meetings.
        • However, the message overcame the shouts and taunts, often turning the hearts of their loudest opponents.
    • The root of the entire problem is man’s sinful heart.
    • Sin entered the world through one man, and by the obedience of another, each of us is provided a way of deliverance. Romans 5:12-21 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, in this way death spread to all men, because all sinned. 13 In fact, sin was in the world before the law, but sin is not charged to a person’s account when there is no law. 14 Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who did not sin in the likeness of Adam’s transgression. He is a prototype of the Coming One. 15 But the gift is not like the trespass. For if by the one man’s trespass the many died, how much more have the grace of God and the gift overflowed to the many by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ. 16 And the gift is not like the one man’s sin, because from one sin came the judgment, resulting in condemnation, but from many trespasses came the gift, resulting in justification.  17 Since by the one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive the overflow of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ. 18 So then, as through one trespass there is condemnation for everyone, so also through one righteous act there is life-giving justification for everyone. 19 For just as through one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so also through the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous. 20 The law came along to multiply the trespass. But where sin multiplied, grace multiplied even more 21 so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace will reign through righteousness, resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
  • The ending of verse 18, “but one sinner can destroy much good,” creates a natural link to chapter ten.

Applications

  • All of us will face challenges and adversity as we go through life. A measure of our faith is how we deal with and overcome them. Do you handle them calmly and trustfully, or do you worry and lash out when they happen? Place your trust in the God of the universe to see you through those times.
  • If you are in a leadership position, listen to advice from those below you, even if the advice comes from an unlikely source. It may just be a word from God at the right moment. 
  • Don’t be afraid to offer advice, regardless of your position. God may reveal to us a word of wisdom during a challenging or difficult situation. Don’t hesitate to offer solutions even if you’re not listened to.
  • The Gospel (wisdom) is mightier than the most powerful ruler. Share it whenever you have the chance. We have nothing to fear in this life if we’re walking with Jesus. Our eternity is secure. 
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Ecclesiastes Lesson Seventeen

Ecclesiastes Lesson Seventeen: Ecclesiastes 8:14-9:10 – Iniquity and Enjoyment

There is a futility that is done on the earth: there are righteous people who get what the actions of the wicked deserve, and there are wicked people who get what the actions of the righteous deserve. I say that this too is futile. 15 So I commended enjoyment because there is nothing better for man under the sun than to eat, drink, and enjoy himself, for this will accompany him in his labor during the days of his life that God gives him under the sun. 

16 When I applied my mind to know wisdom and to observe the activity that is done on the earth (even though one’s eyes do not close in sleep day or night), 17 I observed all the work of God and concluded that man is unable to discover the work that is done under the sun. Even though a man labors hard to explore it, he cannot find it; even if the wise man claims to know it, he is unable to discover it. 

9 Indeed, I took all this to heart and explained it all: the righteous, the wise, and their works are in God’s hands. People don’t know whether to expect love or hate. Everything lies ahead of them. 2 Everything is the same for everyone: there is one fate for the righteous and the wicked,  for the good and the bad,  for the clean and the unclean, for the one who sacrifices and the one who does not sacrifice. As it is for the good, so it is for the sinner; as for the one who takes an oath, so for the one who fears an oath. 3 This is an evil in all that is done under the sun: there is one fate for everyone. In addition, the hearts of people are full of evil, and madness is in their hearts while they live —after that they go to the dead. 4 But there is hope for whoever is joined with all the living, since a live dog is better than a dead lion. 5 For the living know that they will die, but the dead don’t know anything. There is no longer a reward for them because the memory of them is forgotten. 6 Their love, their hate, and their envy have already disappeared, and there is no longer a portion for them in all that is done under the sun. 

7 Go, eat your bread with pleasure, and drink your wine with a cheerful heart, for God has already accepted your works.  8 Let your clothes be white all the time, and never let oil be lacking on your head. 9 Enjoy life with the wife you love all the days of your fleeting life, which has been given to you under the sun, all your fleeting days. For that is your portion in life and in your struggle under the sun. 10 Whatever your hands find to do, do with all your strength, because there is no work, planning, knowledge, or wisdom in Sheol where you are going. (HCSB)

I’ll be splitting this lesson into three parts.

  • The futility of life – verses 8:14-17
  • The righteous and the wicked – verses 9:1-6
  • Enjoy life – verses 9:7-10

The Futility of Life

The author points out the futility of life and how often the righteous suffer the fate that the wicked deserve.

  • The author starts with a variation on a phrase used throughout Ecclesiastes, “done on the earth” is essentially the same as “under the sun.”
    • This phrase is an indication of activity in a sinful, fallen world.
    • In the realm of a sinful world, actions and results often don’t make sense.
      • Righteousness is often not rewarded.
      • Wickedness is often not punished.
    • When we view this through the lens of modern Christian Theology, we know and understand that the Bible never promises an easy life to believers.
      • We aren’t guaranteed good health.
      • We aren’t promised to be rich.
      • We won’t always be happy.
      • We won’t avoid persecution.
      • The life of Jesus and the history of the Christian church proves that those who spout such heretical teaching are wrong.
    • However, we know things will change once we leave this earth and dwell eternally in heaven.
      • There will be no more sin.
      • We won’t worry about our health, happiness, or prosperity.
      • We will be united with other believers in paradise, free of persecution.
      • Revelation 21:4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will no longer exist; grief, crying, and pain will exist no longer, because the previous things have passed away. 
  • The author now moves on to another phrase he previously used, “there is nothing better for man under the sun than to eat, drink, and enjoy himself.”
    • Enjoying life is not a call to a hedonistic lifestyle.
    • It is a call to accept that we won’t understand most of what happens in the world.
    • It’s a call to enjoy what God has provided to us, whatever our circumstances.
    • We are to enjoy God’s provision by living a life of obedience and reverence to God.
  • The author moves to a third idea he had previously mentioned.
    • No matter how hard a person tries, they will never attain perfect or complete wisdom.
    • There is one overarching reason for this: our inability to know the future, as stated in 8:7.
      • We could control our lives if we knew with certainty what actions would bring prosperity, happiness, and a long life.
      • However, we will never gain that level of knowledge.
    • In the end, God is in control.
    • Isaiah 55:8-9 For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways. This is the Lord’s declaration. 9 For as heaven is higher than earth, so My ways are higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.

The Righteous and the Wicked

  • As we look at this section of the passage, we need to put ourselves in the position of the original hearers of the message. This significantly changes how we view it.
    • The original hearers were under the Law.
    • We are under the New Covenant.
    • While the original hearers may have thought that there was no eternal difference between the wicked and the righteous, as followers of Christ, we know there is a difference.
      • The redeemed will have eternal fellowship with God.
      • The condemned will have eternal separation from God and torment.
  • Verse 1
    • Our lives are in God’s hands; He is sovereign.
    • Only He knows our future, whether it will bring love or hate.
    • This knowledge doesn’t mean we don’t have free will in our lives; it only means that God knows our choices before making them and the consequences they will have.
    • The author repeatedly emphasizes free will in human choice.
  • Verse 2
    • This verse is a clear example of the difference between those under the Law and those under the New Covenant.
    • Although Scripture passages in the Old Testament refer to eternal life, the idea needed to be developed more than what is presented in the New Testament.
    • Both the wicked and the righteous will experience the same end “under the sun,” the passing of the physical body.
    • The end of our physical bodies, death, is the “final enemy” we will face.
      • 1 Corinthians 15:26 The last enemy to be abolished is death.
    • However, the result of facing the final enemy will result in people spending eternity in one of two locations; heaven or hell.
      • Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
      • John 11:25-26 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me, even if he dies, will live. 26 Everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die—ever. Do you believe this?”
      • 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, concerning those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve like the rest, who have no hope. 14 Since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, in the same way God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus. 15 For we say this to you by a revelation from the Lord: We who are still alive at the Lord’s coming will certainly have no advantage over those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the archangel’s voice, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are still alive will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so we will always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.
    • Our works have no bearing on our eternal destination; only faith in Jesus Christ will usher us into God’s presence for all eternity.
      • John 14:6 Jesus told him, “I am the way,  the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
  • Verse 3
    • The inevitable fact of death, and sometimes the fear of death, results in two main types of behavior.
      • It either brings out the best.
      • Or it brings out the worst.
    • We often see this play out at funerals or in the aftermath of death when the settling of an estate occurs.
      • People fight over their share of the inheritance.
      • Sometimes, they sue when they feel they’ve been wronged.
    • We also see it in everyday behavior.
      • Getting drunk and getting in fights.
      • Driving in a reckless manner.
      • Spending large amounts of money on things of no eternal value.
      • The pursuit of pleasure, regardless of how it affects others.
      • Using medical treatments in the hope of turning back, or at least slowing, the biological clock.
    • For those who don’t know Jesus as their Savior, the “final enemy” will always be there.
    • We can’t run from the final enemy, but we can face and defeat it by placing our trust in Jesus.
  • Verses 4-6
    • When we look at these three verses, we can see two critical truths to hang on to.
      • The first is that our circumstances can improve while we are still alive.
        • Regardless of what transpires in our lives, the believer has a living hope.
          • Our Savior is alive and has conquered death.
          • Unbelievers have a hope that will be destroyed by death.
        • We must seize the opportunities presented to us to improve our circumstances.
        • But, we must seize those opportunities in a way that honors God.
      • The second is that while an unbeliever is still alive, there is always hope for their redemption.
        • While it’s true that an unbeliever’s hope is shattered by death until they physically die, there is always hope they will repent.
        • We’ve all probably known, or at least heard of, someone we thought was so far lost they would never repent. Yet, by the grace of God, they surrendered their lives to Christ.
          • Matthew 19:26 But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
          • Luke 1:37 For nothing will be impossible with God.
    • In addition to the two truths listed above, there are other ideas in these three verses.
      • For the dead, regardless of their background, wealth, position, or fame, their lives are over.
        • They can’t add anything reputation.
        • There are no longer any rewards waiting to be bestowed on them.
      • For the living, even if they are in the most meager of circumstances, they can always add to the quality of their lives.
      • The living know they will face death at some point.
      • When faced with the inevitability of death, the living can embrace the joys life offers.
      • Life may not be easy, but there’s more to life than simply enduring our existence on planet Earth.

Enjoy Life

  • We now move to a section where the author exhorts the readers to enjoy life. This enjoyment is broken down into four parts.
    • The first area of enjoyment is about our meals.
      • Since Ecclesiastes is written to a Jewish audience, we need to understand the meal schedule of a typical Jewish family during this time.
        • There was normally an early snack during what we would call breakfast.
        • Then, there was a light meal taken between 10 am and noon.
        • After this meal, the work day would begin, and the family wouldn’t gather together until work was finished, often after sunset.
        • The main meal would consist of bread, wine, milk, cheese, vegetables, fruit, and sometimes fish. Meat was expensive and was only served on special occasions.
        • The contents of the meal weren’t what was important; it was “breaking bread” together in fellowship and commitment.
          • Proverbs 15:17 Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened ox with hatred.
          • Proverbs 17:1 Better a dry crust with peace than a house full of feasting with strife.
        • Family love is the most important item on any menu, which turns any ordinary meal into a banquet.
    • The second area of enjoyment is to make the most of any occasion.
      • Once again, understanding Jewish cultural context reveals the intent behind the words.
      • Wearing white garments and having oil on the head carried special meaning.
        • White clothes were worn on special occasions such as weddings or reunions.
        • White clothes symbolized joy.
        • Oil should be understood as a perfume in that day.
      • The author wasn’t literally telling people to wear white and apply oil every day.
      • What he was saying is that we should make every occasion a special one, even if it is ordinary or routine.
      • We shouldn’t express our thanksgiving and joy only on special days.
      • Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
      • We shouldn’t be searching for special things to find our joy.
      • We should find joy by making everyday things special.
    • The third area of enjoyment is our marriage for those who are married.
      • We should view our spouse as a gift from God.
        • Proverbs 18:22 A man who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord.
        • Proverbs 19:14 A house and wealth are inherited from fathers, but a sensible wife is from the Lord. 
      • Marriage should also be viewed as a lifelong commitment.
        • No matter how difficult life can be, there is great joy in the home of a husband and wife who are committed to each other.
        • Unfortunately, that concept is often ignored in modern society, where couples are often too quick to give up on each other.
        • From a biblical standpoint, the only reasons for divorce are infidelity and being married to an unbeliever who abandons the marriage.
          • Matthew 5:32 But I tell you, everyone who divorces his wife, except in a case of sexual immorality, causes her to commit adultery. And whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery.
          • 1 Corinthians 7:15 But if the unbeliever leaves, let him leave. A brother or a sister is not bound in such cases. God has called you to live in peace. 
    • The fourth area of enjoyment is our work.
      • Again, we need to look at work through the eyes of the Jews hearing this message.
      • Jews viewed work not as something to be avoided but as a form of stewardship from God.
      • Even rabbis learned a trade to support themselves. As an example, Paul was a tentmaker.
      • Scripture also says that those capable of work but choose not to work should go hungry.
        • 1 Thessalonians 3:10 In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: “If anyone isn’t willing to work, he should not eat.”
      • Whatever our job is, we should do it in such a way that it glorifies God.
        • Colossians 3:17 And whatever you do, in word or in deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
        • Colossians 3:23-25 Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men, 24 knowing that you will receive the reward of an inheritance from the Lord. You serve the Lord Christ. 25 For the wrongdoer will be paid back for whatever wrong he has done, and there is no favoritism. 
  • If we fear God, we will walk by faith and not try to escape or endure life. We will enjoy life and receive it as a gift from God.

Applications

  • When we see injustice that causes us to shake our heads in disbelief, we shouldn’t lose sight that our existence here is a blip on the timeline of eternity. We need to trust that the sovereign God of the universe will reward the righteous and punish the wicked, even if it’s on His timeline and not ours.
  • No matter our circumstances, we should enjoy life. As long as we have breath, there is the hope that our circumstances can improve. Each life is precious, and we shouldn’t waste the opportunity to live our lives glorifying God.
  • Don’t lose sight of the fact that, as believers, we have nothing to fear. We have victory over death through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus. Our present lives may be difficult, but our eternity will be glorious beyond words.
  • Enjoy what God has given you, no matter how extravagant or meager. Always try to look for the blessing in any situation. If you are married, cherish your spouse as a special gift from God.
  • Do your work in a way that honors God. That means to do your best and not grumble or complain. For various reasons, many people can’t find or may not be able to work. Glorify God through and with your work.
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Ecclesiastes Lesson Fifteen

Ecclesiastes Lesson Fifteen: Ecclesiastes 8:1-9 – Wealth, Authorities, and Inequities

Who is like the wise person, and who knows the interpretation of a matter? A man’s wisdom brightens his face, and the sternness of his face is changed. 

2 Keep the king’s command because of your oath made before God. 3 Do not be in a hurry; leave his presence, and don’t persist in a bad cause, since he will do whatever he wants. 4 For the king’s word is authoritative, and who can say to him, “What are you doing?” 5 The one who keeps a command will not experience anything harmful, and a wise heart knows the right time and procedure. 6 For every activity there is a right time and procedure, even though man’s troubles are heavy on him. 7 Yet no one knows what will happen because who can tell him what will happen? 8 No one has authority over the wind to restrain it, and there is no authority over the day of death; there is no furlough in battle, and wickedness will not allow those who practice it to escape. 9 All this I have seen, applying my mind to all the work that is done under the sun, at a time when one man has authority over another to his harm. (HCSB)

The author now switches to discussing leaders and how their decisions, good or bad, affect those around them. Now, let’s dig deeper into this passage.

  • Verse one acts as a transition from the previous section to this one.
    • If we remember, the previous section led one to believe that chasing after wisdom was a futile exercise.
      • Verses 7:23-24 brought out this concept.
      • Now, at the beginning of chapter eight, the author hints that attaining some wisdom is possible and can lead to advantages.
    • The attainment of some wisdom can lead to influencing those who are in some type of authority position.
    • Let’s consider some biblical examples of this.
      • Joseph, contained in Genesis 41:37-45.
      • Daniel, contained in Daniel 5:29-63.
      • The Holy Spirit will fill the believer with wisdom and the right words to say.
        • Luke 12:11-12.
        • Acts 24:25.
  • Verses two to six talk about dealings with a king. A present-day interpretation/application is understanding interactions with those in positions of authority.
    • Verse two talks about following the commands and laws of government or those placed in an authority position over us.
      • Why are we supposed to do this?
        • The words “oath made before God” indicate a relationship between government and God.
        • All governments, regardless of their good or evil, have been installed because of God’s sovereign plan. Often, we don’t understand why, but there is a purpose behind it.
        • Our obedience to the secular authority verifies obedience to God.
          • Romans 13:1-7 Everyone must submit to the governing authorities,  for there is no authority except from God,  and those that exist are instituted by God. 2 So then, the one who resists the authority is opposing God’s command, and those who oppose it will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have its approval. 4 For government is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, because it does not carry the sword for no reason. For government is God’s servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong. 5 Therefore, you must submit, not only because of wrath, but also because of your conscience.  6 And for this reason you pay taxes, since the authorities are God’s public servants, continually attending to these tasks.  7 Pay your obligations to everyone: taxes to those you owe taxes,  tolls to those you owe tolls, respect to those you owe respect,  and honor to those you owe honor.
          • Mark 12:17 Then Jesus told them, “Give back to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they were amazed at Him.
          • 1 Peter 2:13-17 Submit to every human authority because of the Lord, whether to the Emperor as the supreme authority 14 or to governors as those sent out by him to punish those who do what is evil and to praise those who do what is good. 15 For it is God’s will that you silence the ignorance of foolish people by doing good. 16 As God’s slaves, live as free people, but don’t use your freedom as a way to conceal evil. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood.  Fear God. Honor the Emperor. 
        • This begs the question, “What should you do when the situation you find yourself in directly conflicts with Scripture?” Let’s consider some examples.
          • You work for a magazine company that begins to print pornography. The simple solution is to look for a job elsewhere, even if it causes financial hardship. 
          • The government over you, at whatever level, has decided to pass a law that endorses same-sex marriage. In this case, peaceful protesting would be allowed. The key here is that it remains peaceful and doesn’t attack the individual. Attacking another person for sinful behavior is being judgmental. Speak out against the sin, but don’t make it personal.
          • A church or denomination endorses gay or lesbian leadership. Speak out peacefully against this practice and leave the church for one that follows Scripture if it doesn’t change.
    • Let’s consider verses three to six together.
      • When we find ourselves in a situation similar to the above, we must ensure we aren’t too hasty in leaving it.
        • As long as we are “in it,” we may find opportunities to influence or change bad decisions.
        • When we remove ourselves from the situation, we may find we no longer have as much, or maybe no, influence on it.
        • Each situation is different, and we must consider how our actions could change or influence them.
        • We also need to remember that we ultimately work for God and not for the person appointed over us.
          • Colossians 3:23 Whatever you do, do it enthusiastically, as something done for the Lord and not for men.
          • Once, I was an elder in a church, and I disagreed with how the church was being led. We weren’t doing anything against Scripture; it’s just that the lead pastor wasn’t interested in doing anything outside of our Sunday morning service. The pastor was full-time and drawing a healthy salary with additional perks. On two occasions, I seriously considered stepping down. Ultimately, the above passage and the realization that I could still be a voice to encourage additional ministry activities kept me from resigning.
      • If we remove ourselves from a position of influence, we may find that we can no longer impact the situation.
      • The author makes that point clear in verses 5-6.
        • A wise heart knows the right time and procedure.
        • For every activity, there is a right time and procedure, even though man’s troubles are heavy on him.
        • When we consider these two verses, we see that even though the situation may be unpleasant or troubling, there will be a time to speak or act against it.
        • However, we must be wise in our words, actions, and timing.
        • Being impulsive and letting our emotions control us will only worsen the situation.
        • Let’s consider four examples from Scripture.
          • Joseph didn’t reveal his identity to his brothers too soon. He wanted to make sure their hearts were right with their father and with God. Once he heard them confess their sins, he knew it was time to reveal his identity.
          • Nehemiah was burdened to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. But he wasn’t sure how the king would react to that request. So, he waited, watched, and prayed until the right time. The king granted Nehemiah’s request.
          • Daniel was a prisoner of war in a Gentile land. He refused to eat the unclean food he was given but didn’t make a scene out of it. Instead, he was gentle in his request to let the Jews experiment with a different diet. Daniel’s plan worked; he and his friends were able to stay ceremonially clean, and they were promoted to the king’s court.
          • The apostles exercised restraint when they were arrested and persecuted in Acts 4-5. They showed respect toward the authority of the religious leaders even though they had acted illegally and with prejudice.
  • Verses 7-8 act as a transition and a contrast.
    • The transition and contrast are between the powers who govern us. On the human level, it is the king, but on a higher level, it is God.
    • The “wind” in 8a represents the power of God.
    • The “day of death” in 8b is ultimately in the power of God.
    • The phrase “no furlough in battle” is under the king’s control.
    • The phrase “wickedness will not allow those who practice it to escape” should be understood to mean that no amount of scheming or cunning can save someone from the control of the governing powers.
  • Verse nine forms a bridge between the previous eight verses and what follows.
    • The author has been referring to the power of rulers.
    • He now introduces the following theme: the injustices of life by those who abuse their power.
    • We’ve previously looked at the phrase “under the sun” as being those actions under mankind’s dominion.
    • In the next section, the author will dive deeper into the idea of a human leader causing harm to those under their rule.

Applications

  • Follow the rules and laws of the land where you live. God has placed the governing authorities in place for a purpose, often a purpose we may never understand. When laws or rules we disagree with are in place, we don’t have to support them, but if we protest against them, it must be done peacefully and God-honoring. An example would be legal abortion clinics. We have an obligation to speak out against them and protest peacefully. However, physically attacking doctors or clinic workers or damaging/destroying the building is not a God-honoring solution.
  • The principle applies to our workplace. In this situation, we have the added option of leaving employment if necessary. However, a key point to consider is whether we’d have more chance of influencing matters by staying in an uncomfortable situation instead of quitting.
  • If you choose to act in either of the above situations, make sure you exercise wise restraint and even wiser timing. Don’t act on emotions. Go to God in prayer to determine the right time and method when you protest or speak out against ungodly actions, rules, or laws. Sometimes, we can do more harm than good to our Christian witness when we act inappropriately.
truthproject777

Ecclesiastes Lesson Fourteen

Ecclesiastes Lesson Fourteen: Ecclesiastes 7:23-29 – The Limitations of Wisdom

I have tested all this by wisdom. I resolved, “I will be wise,” but it was beyond me. 24 What exists is beyond reach and very deep. Who can discover it? 25 I turned my thoughts to know, explore, and seek wisdom and an explanation for things, and to know that wickedness is stupidity and folly is madness. 26 And I find more bitter than death the woman who is a trap,  her heart a net, and her hands chains. The one who pleases God will escape her, but the sinner will be captured by her. 27 “Look,” says the Teacher, “I have discovered this by adding one thing to another to find out the explanation, 28 which my soul continually searches for but does not find: among a thousand people I have found one true man, but among all these I have not found a true woman. 29 Only see this: I have discovered that God made people upright, but they pursued many schemes.” (HCSB)

I’m going to split this lesson into two parts.

  • Our inability to grasp God’s actions – verses 23-25.
  • The sinfulness of humanity – verses 26-29.

Our Inability to Grasp God’s Actions

  • The author explains that he set out on a challenge to discover the depths of wisdom. 
  • He found that no matter how hard he tried, it was impossible to have wisdom that revealed all the answers to what was observed in the world.
  • Even the statement “I have tested all this” is misleading since it’s impossible to test everything found in nature.
  • Understanding the how and why of God and His creation is impossible.
    • Isaiah 55:8-9 “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways.” This is the Lord’s declaration. 9 “For as heaven is higher than earth, so My ways are higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.”
    • Micah 4:12a But they do not know the Lord’s intentions or understand His plan.
    • Psalm 147:5 Our Lord is great, vast in power; His understanding is infinite.
  • The author then gets to the crux of the problem and reaches a fitting conclusion.
    • He sought to explore what he could and understand those areas that he did explore.
    • He never said that he did or intended to discover all the answers.
  • It is in coming to this conclusion that the author has discovered wisdom.
    • First, by acknowledging it’s impossible to discover the answers to everything.
    • Second, by acknowledging that God is sovereign. 
  • God is the answer.
    • Only God knows and understands His creation.
    • We begin to discover wisdom when we submit to God as His created beings.
    • Proverbs 9:10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. 
  • By submitting to and following an infinitely holy and righteous God, we gain wisdom and turn from wickedness, which is better understood as stupidity and folly.

The Sinfulness of Humanity

This is a challenging section of the passage, and it’s easy to focus on the woman mentioned here. However, doing that leads us away from the bigger picture being presented here. The idea the author is trying to convey is the pervasive sinfulness of humanity.

  • This section begins with the saying that a woman who is a trap is more bitter than death. The question that begs to ask is who or what type of woman is being described.
    • Some scholars believe the author is talking about a prostitute, and Scripture is ripe with passages that depict the trap of prostitutes.
      • Proverbs 2:16-19 It will rescue you from a forbidden woman, from a stranger with her flattering talk, 17 who abandons the companion of her youth and forgets the covenant of her God; 18 for her house sinks down to death and her ways to the land of the departed spirits. 19 None return who go to her; none reach the paths of life.
      • Proverbs 5:3-6 Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her words are smoother than oil, 4 in the end she’s as bitter as wormwood and as sharp as a double-edged sword. 5 Her feet go down to death; her steps head straight for Sheol. 6 She doesn’t consider the path of life; she doesn’t know that her ways are unstable. 
    • Other scholars believe this passage discusses the strife between a husband and wife.
      • Genesis 3:16b Your desire will be for your husband, yet he will rule over you.
      • Because of sin, married life will be a battle instead of a relationship filled with joy.
      • Women will try to ensnare and control men.
      • Most men, sometimes through force, will seek to dominate their wives.
      • In the end, both are miserable.
    • A third group believes the author was talking about foreign wives who would lead the man away from God.
      • 1 Kings 11:3-8 He had 700 wives who were princesses and 300 concubines, and they turned his heart away from the Lord. 4 When Solomon was old, his wives seduced him to follow other gods. He was not completely devoted to Yahweh his God, as his father David had been. 5 Solomon followed Ashtoreth, the goddess of the Sidonians, and Milcom, the detestable idol of the Ammonites. 6 Solomon did what was evil in the Lord’s sight, and unlike his father David, he did not completely follow Yahweh. 7 At that time, Solomon built a high place for Chemosh,  the detestable idol of Moab, and for Milcom, the detestable idol of the Ammonites, on the hill across from Jerusalem. 8 He did the same for all his foreign wives, who were burning incense and offering sacrifices to their gods.
      • A modern understanding of this is being married to an unbeliever. It doesn’t matter if they are an atheist, agnostic, or follow a false religion. In each case, the unbeliever can pressure the Christian to turn away from a pure relationship with Christ.
  • It would be an incorrect understanding to think the author felt that 100% of women were inherently evil.
    • At this point, we need to remember the coherence of Scripture and the fact it can’t contradict itself.
      • Proverbs 12:4 A capable wife is her husband’s crown, but a wife who causes shame is like rottenness in his bones.
      • Proverbs 14:1 Every wise woman builds her house, but a foolish one tears it down with her own hands.
    • Since Scripture mentions capable and wise wives, it is evidence they exist.
  • Now, let’s move on to an understanding of the bigger picture being painted here: the overall sinfulness of humanity.
    • When God originally created man and woman, there wasn’t any sin in the world.
    • Adam and Eve were originally “upright,” meaning they were sinless and righteous.
    • Once sin entered into the world, each person was capable of sinful behavior.
    • Humanity chased after their desires instead of chasing after God and following His will.
    • Romans 3:10b-12 There is no one righteous, not even one. 11 There is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. 12 All have turned away; all alike have become useless. There is no one who does what is good, not even one.
  • So, what is the solution? It’s contained in verse 26b The one who pleases God will escape her, but the sinner will be captured by her.
    • Let’s understand “her” to mean sin and sinful behavior.
    • When we obey God, walk according to His commands, and surrender to Christ, we will escape the penalty of sin.
    • When we don’t surrender to Christ and follow God, we are ensnared by sin and will eventually pay the penalty.

Applications

  • Don’t pursue knowledge and wisdom as the end all of your life’s pursuits. Accept that you’ll never understand everything, maybe most things, and place your trust in the sovereignty of God. Only He has all the knowledge and answers to the riddles of life. Pursue a relationship with Him as the most important pursuit in life.
  • Although we can’t, and shouldn’t, avoid engagement with the world and those who don’t follow Christ, we need to be careful. It is easy to be led astray, regardless of how strong you think your relationship with Him might be. Many who came before us were led astray, and there will be many after us. We must set boundaries to protect ourselves and have strong Christian brothers and sisters to walk alongside us.
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Ecclesiastes Lesson Thirteen

Ecclesiastes Lesson Thirteen: Ecclesiastes 7:15-22 – The Value of Moderation

In my futile life I have seen everything: there is a righteous man who perishes in spite of his righteousness, and there is a wicked man who lives long in spite of his evil. 16 Don’t be excessively righteous, and don’t be overly wise. Why should you destroy yourself? 17 Don’t be excessively wicked, and don’t be foolish. Why should you die before your time? 18 It is good that you grasp the one and do not let the other slip from your hand. For the one who fears God will end up with both of them. 

19 Wisdom makes the wise man stronger 

than ten rulers of a city. 

20 There is certainly no righteous man on the earth 

who does good and never sins. 

21 Don’t pay attention to everything people say, or you may hear your servant cursing you, 22 for you know that many times you yourself have cursed others. (HCSB)

The preceding lesson talked about wisdom through parables. This lesson will also have an underlying theme of wisdom but in the context of moderation. 

I’ll be dividing this lesson into two parts.

  • The mystery of righteousness versus sin and the length of a person’s life – verses 15-18.
  • Another exposé on wisdom – verses 19-22.

The Mystery of Righteousness Versus Sin and the Length of a Person’s Life

Don’t we often wonder and struggle when we see blatantly sinful people living long and seemingly prosperous lives? And the same happens when we see good people who die young. It begs the question, “Why do the righteous suffer and the wicked prosper?” Doesn’t this contradict God’s Word?

  • Exodus 20:12 Honor your father and your mother so that you may have a long life in the land that the Lord your God is giving you. 
  • Deuteronomy 4:40 Keep His statutes and commands, which I am giving you today, so that you and your children after you may prosper and so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you for all time.
  • Deuteronomy 4:25-26 When you have children and grandchildren and have been in the land a long time, and if you act corruptly, make an idol in the form of anything, and do what is evil in the sight of the Lord your God, provoking Him to anger, 26 I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you today that you will quickly perish from the land you are about to cross the Jordan to possess. You will not live long there, but you will certainly be destroyed.
  • Psalm 55:23 God, You will bring them down to the Pit of destruction; men of bloodshed and treachery will not live out half their days. But I will trust in You.

We need to consider two facts when we ponder the question of whether or not the Word has been contradicted.

  • God did promise to bless Israel in their land if they obeyed His Law, but those promises are not given to believers today under the new covenant.
    • Matthew 5:3 The poor in spirit are blessed, for the kingdom of heaven is theirs.
  • The wicked appear to prosper only if you take a short-term view of things.
    • Psalm 73
    • 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Therefore we do not give up. Even though our outer person is being destroyed, our inner person is being renewed day by day. 17 For our momentary light affliction is producing for us an absolutely incomparable eternal weight of glory. 18 So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

When we consider these two facts, we see clearly that God has not contradicted Himself.

Another biblical example to consider is the book of Job and his three “friends.” They are convinced that the question of how humans relate to God and the world is captured in one belief: If you obey all the rules, you’ll be safe. The result is that those who ascribe to this belief lean towards asceticism, self-denial as a spiritual discipline. However, asceticism has the following shortcomings.

  • Futility – everyone will end up failing at some point.
  • Arrogance – there’s a tendency to have a smug certainty about one’s righteousness.
  • Miserable – cutting off from the everyday joys of life.

Putting these ideas into modern understanding would caution us not to be fanatics or legalistic in our behavior.

The second half of verse eighteen effectively summarizes verses 15-18. 

  • To understand, we must figure out how fearing God will allow a person to end up with both. But what are “both?”
    • Having a devotion to God and following His teachings of wisdom.
    • Enjoying the good things in life.
  • A person who faithfully follows God will be able to maintain both of these throughout their life.
  • This is in contrast with two other philosophical outlooks.
    • Asceticism – any indulgence or humor is either a sin against religion or folly against wisdom.
    • Libertine – any form of restraint is a threat against pleasure-seeking.
  • The author seems to warn against excesses, but the Christian life seems filled with them.
    • Exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees: Matthew 5:20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. 
    • Be exceedingly glad when we are persecuted: Matthew 5:12 Be glad and rejoice, because your reward is great in heaven. For that is how they persecuted the prophets who were before you. 
    • God has given us exceedingly great and precious promises: 2 Peter 1:4a By these He has given us very great and precious promises.
    • God has promised to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think: Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do above and beyond all that we ask or think  according to the power that works in us.
  • The author is warning against the wrong kind of excess, not excess in general, as Scripture can’t contradict other sections of Scripture.
  • God’s creation is wonderfully balanced.
  • We must learn to balance the ways we perceive the circumstances of our lives.

Another Exposé on Wisdom

This section contains two short teachings.

  • A person with wisdom is infinitely stronger than the foolish rulers of a city.
    • Wise men are necessary because human sin is universal: Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
    • Rulers can try to control evil by brute force, but because of pettiness, weakness, and ambition in society, only wise men can maintain the equilibrium among them.
  • Verses 21-22 are a warning against being overly sensitive to what others say about us. It’s also highly likely, if not an absolute given, that we’ve said things about or to others that have caused pain.
    • We might try and explain away what we said by blaming it on “having a bad day” or “we didn’t really mean what we said.”
      • Others would probably use the same excuse when speaking badly about us.
      • Why do we apply different standards to what we say and what others say about us?
    • The knowledge of our flawed nature should shape our attitudes toward others.
      • We are sinful people, and apart from the redemptive power of Christ, we are destined to spend eternity in hell.
      • We are also called to love our neighbors as ourselves: Mark 12:31 “The second is: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other command greater than these.” 
    • If we’re wise, we won’t pay attention to what others say about us and won’t speak ill of others.

Applications

  • Avoid excesses in your life. This can also include “church activities” if they are detrimental to the balance in your life. I knew one Christian family while in high school who went to church Sunday morning, Sunday night, Wednesday night, and just about any other church event during the week. You might think that’s great, but you never saw the inside of their house. There were dishes and pots piled high in their kitchen. There were piles of dirty clothes throughout the house, even in the common areas. They had two dogs, and I often wondered if “accidents” ever occurred and how long it took to find them! Their family life lacked balance.
  • Focus on acquiring, understanding, and applying the wisdom contained in Scripture. But do this to walk in obedience to God’s Word and strengthen your walk with Christ, not as a way to show off or justify yourself.
  • Don’t let what others say about you cause discouragement. Sometimes, that isn’t easy. But in the end, if we’re walking in obedience to Christ, what others say about us doesn’t matter. They aren’t our judge. Only Christ can and will judge us.
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Ecclesiastes Lesson Twelve

Ecclesiastes Lesson Twelve: Ecclesiastes 7:1-14 – Wise Sayings

A good name is better than fine perfume, 

and the day of one’s death than the day of one’s birth. 

2 It is better to go to a house of mourning 

than to go to a house of feasting, 

since that is the end of all mankind, 

and the living should take it to heart. 

3 Grief is better than laughter, 

for when a face is sad, a heart may be glad. 

4 The heart of the wise is in a house of mourning, 

but the heart of fools is in a house of pleasure. 

5 It is better to listen to rebuke from a wise person 

than to listen to the song of fools, 

6 for like the crackling of burning thorns under the pot, 

so is the laughter of the fool. 

This too is futile. 

7 Surely, the practice of extortion turns a wise person into a fool, 

and a bribe destroys the mind. 

8 The end of a matter is better than its beginning; 

a patient spirit is better than a proud spirit. 

9 Don’t let your spirit rush to be angry, 

for anger abides in the heart of fools. 

10 Don’t say, “Why were the former days better than these?” 

since it is not wise of you to ask this. 

11 Wisdom is as good as an inheritance 

and an advantage to those who see the sun, 

12 because wisdom is protection as money is protection, 

and the advantage of knowledge 

is that wisdom preserves the life of its owner. 

13 Consider the work of God, 

for who can straighten out 

what He has made crooked? 

14 In the day of prosperity be joyful,  but in the day of adversity, consider: God has made the one as well as the other,  so that man cannot discover anything that will come after him. (HCSB)

The first part of chapter seven reads very much like it came from Proverbs. Although verses 1-14 could be read as one theme. It makes more sense to split it into two.

  • Wisdom can make life better – verses 1-11.
  • Wisdom helps us see life clearly – verses 12-14.

Wisdom Can Make Life Better

Verse 1

  • On the surface, these verse appears quite confusing. What did the writer mean by these two contrasts?
  • Both a good name and perfume were highly regarded in Jewish culture.
    • Proverbs 10:7 The remembrance of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot.
    • Psalm 45:7 You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of joy more than your companions. 
  • Here, the writer contrasts outer appearance and inward values to make his point.
  • The writer also wasn’t saying death was better than birth because a person can’t die unless they were born. 
  • There are two significant days when a person’s name is known: the day they are born/named and the day they die.
    • The life lived between those two events determines whether the name leaves behind a lovely fragrance or a foul stench.
    • If a person dies with a good name, their reputation is sealed.
    • In this case, death is better than birth, as the person’s reputation is settled.
  • This same concept can be applied to a person with a bad reputation. Once they die, they can no longer do harm or cause hurt.

Verses 2-4

  • These verses make a simple point: there is much to be gained by sober reflection on death.
  • When we realize we’ll all meet the same end, a wise person will turn from foolishness.
    • Psalm 90:12 Teach us to number our days carefully so that we may develop wisdom in our hearts.
  • We should learn from death but not be preoccupied with it. This could result in a person not taking life as seriously as they should.
  • As the writer transitions from the house of mourning to grief and laughter in verse three, let’s take a closer look at the meaning behind the word “laughter.” The Hebrew word can take two directions.
    • One is happy laughter, taking the word at face value.
    • The second is more subtle. It can mean derision or scorn.
  • The idea of grief and mourning being better than laughter and pleasure is simple yet deep.
    • The writer here is likely referring to circumstances that are temporal in nature.
    • Temporal happiness can divert our attention and focus away from God to things of the world.
    • When we experience temporal grief or trials, it brings us back to focusing on God and depending on Him for everything.
    • Temporal sadness is good when it causes us to turn our heart and mind back to God.
      • 2 Corinthians 7:9-10 Now I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because your grief led to repentance. For you were grieved as God willed, so that you didn’t experience any loss from us. 10 For godly grief produces a repentance not to be regretted and leading to salvation, but worldly grief produces death.

Verses 5-6

  • Hearing rebuke is better than hearing praise.
  • I’m sure we’ve all been in situations where all we hear is praise, how good we are, or how well we’ve done something.
    • I’ve been in that situation several different times. Although we all like to hear we’ve done something well, it’s also helpful when we’re told how we’ve fallen short.
    • Although no one likes a rebuke, which is a strong word, we’ll never grow or learn if we aren’t told when we mess up.
    • This is especially true when the correction comes from someone who is wise or has experience in general or the specific situation where we may have made a mistake.
    • Praise often comes from those who lack wisdom or experience. Or, they may be trying to curry favor, especially if they are below the person they are praising.
  • The writer is also using two similes in these verses.
    • A foolish person is worthless, like thorns.
    • A foolish person is always in danger of facing judgment, burning under a pot.

Verse 7

  • The basis for the idea that extortion turns a person into a fool is found in many ancient Near East wisdom literature. 
  • Those in positions of political power should avoid corrupt activities.
  • However, as we look around the world today, it’s very common to see people in positions of power using their positions to accept bribes or conduct “under the table” deals to benefit themselves and their supporters.
  • The widespread corruption in politics makes it difficult not to have a cynical view toward those in office, and it’s easy to believe everyone who holds office is tainted somehow.
  • Bribery undercuts wisdom because it corrupts the heart.

Verses 8-9

  • The theme in these two verses is to consider life as a long-distance event and not a sprint or trying to take shortcuts to make things easier.
  • The shortcuts and bribes were talked about in the previous verse.
  • Hard work and taking the narrow path is the correct way to live one’s life.
  • Too often in today’s world, people look for the quickest solution, which, almost invariably, is not a solution but a trap that leads us astray.
  • A follower of Christ needs to be patient.
    • Philippians 1:6 I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.
    • Hebrews 12:1b-2 Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, 2 keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that lay before Him endured a cross and despised the shame and has sat down at the right hand of God’s throne.
    • Romans 8:28 We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.
  • There’s also a warning in verse nine.
    • We need to control how we respond to situations, especially those which upset us. This also includes situations where “righteous anger” is appropriate.
    • Often, we can jump to conclusions before we know the full story.
    • How often can that lead to damaged relationships because of a simple misunderstanding?
      • Proverbs 29:20 Do you see a man who speaks too soon? There is more hope for a fool than for him.
      • Proverbs 19:3 A man’s own foolishness leads him astray, yet his heart rages against the Lord.
      • Proverbs 21:5 The plans of the diligent certainly lead to profit, but anyone who is reckless certainly becomes poor.
      • Acts 19:36 Therefore, since these things are undeniable, you must keep calm and not do anything rash. 

Verse 10

  • This verse also contains a warning.
  • When things get difficult, we often lack the patience to get through the situation, and instead, we yearn for the “good old days” because we think they were better.
  • A prime example is the Exodus from Egypt.
    • God was leading His people into the promised land.
    • However, every time things got tough, the people would cry out for the “good old days” of living in bondage.
  • Looking back on past events is vital to gain a true perspective of things. The Bible even commands us to do that.
    • Isaiah 46:8-9 Remember this and be brave; take it to heart, you transgressors! 9 Remember what happened long ago, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and no one is like Me.
    • Psalm 42:4 I remember this as I pour out my heart: how I walked with many, leading the festive procession to the house of God, with joyful and thankful shouts.
  • We are not to dwell on the past or cause it to skew our decision-making in the present.
  • The only time to dwell on past blessings is when we give thanks to God or as a reminder of how He has been faithful to us.
  • However, if we spend too much time reflecting on past blessings, we can miss out on what God is doing around us and trying to do through us in the present.

Verses 11-12

  • What is better, wisdom or wealth?
  • A sign of maturity is the ability to put life into perspective and not get out of balance.
  • Godly wisdom is more valuable than wealth.
    • Money can lose its value, be stolen, or be spent foolishly.
    • Wisdom keeps its value and can’t be lost unless we become foolish and throw our wisdom away or ignore it.
  • A person who has wealth but lacks wisdom will often waste their wealth.
  • A person who has wisdom will know how to acquire and use wealth.
  • Wisdom can help us navigate the difficult time, regardless of our financial situation.

Verses 13-14

  • The point here is that God is in control of all things; His will can’t be resisted or changed.
  • God brings both prosperity and times of testing.
  • When we are experiencing good times, we should enjoy the prosperity.
  • When we are being tested, we should understand and accept that this is also from God.
  • We don’t know what tomorrow will bring; it could be wealth or a season of testing.
  • Regardless, we can accept that God is in control.
    • Lamentations 3:38 Do not both adversity and good come from the mouth of the Most High?
    • Philippians 4:12-13 I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. 13 I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.
  • We would do well to remember Paul’s words above. Paul was content regardless of his circumstances. And we also must correctly understand verse thirteen. It doesn’t mean we can do anything we want. It does mean we can endure whatever circumstances we find ourselves in when we are walking in obedience to God.

Applications.

  • As we consider applications to this passage, I want us to consider the world today in contrast to this passage. We live in a very materialistic and self-centered world, and this passage screams disagreement with what the world says we should pursue. Often, the world’s pressures leave us looking for a way out, a way to escape what the world says is right. Against this backdrop, I want us to consider the following applications.
  • Don’t live for temporal worldly recognition. Focus on obedience to God and what His Word says. If that results in adulation and recognition, it’s okay. Just remember to give glory to God and not think too highly of yourself.
  • Remember, our life is like a puff of smoke on the timeline of eternity. Francis Chan has a wonderful illustration of this. Think of the longest rope or string you can imagine (it will never be long enough), and put one drop of red ink at the beginning. The red ink is our life, and the rest of the string is eternity after we leave this world. Why do we focus so much on the red ink and not eternity? Don’t chase after the temporal; chase after the eternal.
  • If you are blessed with monetary success, use it to bless others and help those in need. It doesn’t mean we need to sacrifice it all and live in poverty (although it’s possible God may direct you on that path), but if we’re stingy while living in opulence, our lives are not shining the light of Christ.
  • Persevere through whatever trials you’re going through. If it’s because of disobedience, confess and return to God. If it’s because you’re being tested and refined, rejoice in the process and prepare yourself for further Kingdom work.
  • When we die, we won’t be able to take anything with us. As we stand before Jesus, will we hear, “well done, good and faithful servant,” or will we hear, “depart from me, for I never knew you”?
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Ecclesiastes Lesson Nine

Ecclesiastes Lesson Nine: Ecclesiastes 4:7-16 – The Tears of the Lonely and Disillusioned

Again, I saw futility under the sun: 8 There is a person without a companion, without even a son or brother, and though there is no end to all his struggles, his eyes are still not content with riches. “So who am I struggling for,” he asks, “and depriving myself from good?” This too is futile and a miserable task. 

9 Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their efforts. 10 For if either falls, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to lift him up. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they can keep warm; but how can one person alone keep warm? 12 And if someone overpowers one person, two can resist him. A cord of three strands is not easily broken. 

13 Better is a poor but wise youth than an old but foolish king who no longer pays attention to warnings. 14 For he came from prison to be king, even though he was born poor in his kingdom. 15 I saw all the living, who move about under the sun, follow a second youth who succeeds him. 16 There is no limit to all the people who were before them, yet those who come later will not rejoice in him. This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind. (HCSB)

I’ll be breaking this lesson into two parts.

  • The importance of family and friends – verses 7-12.
  • Poor and wise is better than foolish and powerful – verses 13-16.

The Importance of Family and Friends

In this section, the teacher observes the importance of family and friends and the uselessness of wealth and possessions for the lonely. Let’s take a deeper look at this section of the passage.

  • The teacher observed the struggles of a person without any family or friends.
    • In this example, the loneliness is self-inflicted.
      • People become slaves to their work.
      • They’re never satisfied with what they have.
      • Money and possessions are their family.
    • The drive to satisfy their “worldly appetite” ends up driving their family and friends away.
      • The preoccupation with “stuff” prevents them from establishing and cultivating relationships.
      • Or it drives others away because they see that “stuff” is all the person is concerned with.
    • This example is personified in the person who has achieved things in life, maybe even seemingly great things, but when they look around, they’ve left a trail of broken family ties and friendships behind.
    • Success is meaningless when it consumes the person, resulting in absolute loneliness.
    • At the same time, the teacher is not condemning a strong work ethic.
      • It’s good to have a strong work ethic.
      • But it must be balanced with the other aspects of life.
      • People must enjoy the fruits of their labor and leisure time.
  • After observing the struggles of those who choose to live in isolation, the teacher now turns to the importance of family and friends and living in community.
    • Working in groups is more efficient than working alone.
      • Two or more workers can accomplish more than a solitary worker.
      • Even after dividing the profits, the increased efficiency results in greater benefits.
      • Difficult jobs are also easier in groups.
        • Some jobs are very difficult or even impossible to do alone.
        • When the work is tiring or difficult, work partners can offer encouragement to each other.
    • The idea of falling should be viewed in two ways.
      • The first is the physical act of falling.
        • Depending on the situation, a person may need help in getting back up after falling. Maybe they’ve fallen into a hole (think of ancient civilization roads) or down an embankment.
        • They may have fallen and injured themselves. In this situation, they’re incapable of getting out of the situation themselves.
      • The second view is of spiritual falling.
        • A person may be struggling with sin or an addiction. One or more people to “lift them up” is invaluable in overcoming the temptation.
        • When believers live in community, they can mutually support each other through prayer and the use of their spiritual gifts.
      • Galatians 6:2 Carry one another’s burdens; in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
    • Having companions will also prove beneficial when stranded in poor weather.
      • It’s a proven scientific fact that when people are stranded in cold conditions, and there isn’t a heat source or a way to make a fire, sharing body heat is the best solution.
      • The statement from the teacher doesn’t carry any sexual innuendo. It’s a practical application to survive in adverse conditions.
      • There is also a metaphorical understanding that emotional comfort is provided against the coldness of the world.
    • Finally, being in groups was a safety-conscious decision.
      • Traveling alone was dangerous, regardless of the time of day.
      • Even King David was grateful for a friend who stepped in during a time of need. 2 Samuel 21:15-17  The Philistines again waged war against Israel. David went down with his soldiers, and they fought the Philistines, but David became exhausted. 16 Then Ishbi-benob, one of the descendants of the giant, whose bronze spear weighed about eight pounds and who wore new armor, intended to kill David. 17 But Abishai son of Zeruiah came to his aid, struck the Philistine, and killed him. Then David’s men swore to him: “You must never again go out with us to battle. You must not extinguish the lamp of Israel.”
  • The teacher followed a pattern that was typical in Hebrew literature.
    • He started with “one” in verse eight.
    • He moved to “two” in verse nine.
    • He finished with “three” in verse twelve.
    • One cord could be easily broken. Two provided more strength. But three cords were even better. Three cords required unity, a picture of friendship.

Poor and Wise is Better than Foolish and Powerful

This is the fourth time in chapter four that the teacher uses the term “better.” It introduces a story that teaches two timeless truths; the instability of political power and the variability of popularity. Let’s dig deeper into these last few verses.

  • The story in these verses is about a king and a wise young man who is poor.
    • Early in the king’s rule, he listened to his advisors’ advice and ruled with wisdom.
      • As he got older, the king no longer listened to his advisors.
      • It would be easy to assume the change was due to senility or inflated pride. However, the problem was likely deeper than this.
        • The king was probably surrounded by advisors who were more concerned with their position and making the king happy than they were about providing sound advice.
        • Their poor advice would isolate the king from what was actually happening around him.
        • In return, these advisors were able to live in comfort at the expense of the general populace.
        • This situation is common with weak leaders who are more concerned about themselves than they are about their people.
      • Regardless of traditional thought, neither age nor might ensure wisdom and success.
    • The youth is “better” than the king because he understands to pay attention to warnings.
    • This youth is also the person referenced in verse fifteen who succeeds the old king.
      • The first “youth” should be understood as the now old king.
      • This second youth now uses his energy and political cunning to steal the hearts of the people who have grown tired of the now distant, inflexible, and old king.
      • A perfect example of this situation is Absalom’s attempt to usurp the throne from David.
      • However, this is not the solution or end of the story.
  • The teacher is indicating the change in leadership will be a continuous loop, repeating itself endlessly throughout history.
    • Power is a fleeting commodity.
    • Being the leader is a temporary position.
    • Each one is just a timestamp in the historical timeline of the earth.

As we conclude our study of chapter four, there are a few principles the teacher is attempting to highlight.

  • Life doesn’t stand still. Regardless of the circumstances we find ourselves in, we must face life head-on, with God’s help, and make the most of it.
  • We need family and friends in life. We may think there are advantages to being independent, but there are also disadvantages. These disadvantages become heavier as we get older.
  • Everyone needs balance in their life. It’s good to have the things that money can buy as long as you don’t lose the things money can’t buy. Are you sacrificing what should be permanent to get what will end up being temporary?
  • Mark 8:36-37  For what does it benefit a man to gain the whole world yet lose his life?  37 What can a man give in exchange for his life?

Applications

  • Take stock of the relationships you have with your family and friends. Have you placed the pursuit of “worldly” desires before those relationships? Our family should never suffer as a result of our jobs. There may be times when situations arise, causing financial hardship. However, as much as possible, those should be temporary in nature. Our spouses and children are gifts from God. They are more valuable than all the money in the world.
  • Be involved in mutually supportive relationships. Extend help to others in their times of need. Accept help from others when you need it. Don’t let pride prevent you from accepting help. 
  • No matter what stage of life we’re in, we need truthful friends who aren’t afraid to “tell it like it is.” At times that may ruffle our feathers, but it will also keep us on the “narrow road.” Don’t be the “foolish king” in your relationships. At the same time, if you have friends who are suffering from the “foolish king” syndrome, speak the truth in love to them. They may not thank you right away, but once the situation clears, it’s almost certain they will value what you said.