July 25, 2021 - Ecclesiates 1:12-15; 2:18-26
July 25, 2021
Lessons Learned
Introduction to Ecclesiastes
by Wayne Gaeddert
1. Most scholars believe Ecclesiastes was written by King Solomon.
2. Solomon refers to himself as ‘teacher’ or ‘preacher’ (depending on your version of the Bible) throughout the book.
3. Vanity means something that is fleeting or elusive.
4. Vanity is used 29 times in Ecclesiastes.
5. ‘Under the sun’ is Solomon’s way of referring to life on earth that disregards God’s purpose for life.
6. ‘Under the sun’ is used 29 times in Ecclesiastes.
7. “Ecclesiastes is an inspired confession of failure and pessimism, when God `is excluded, when man lives under the sun, and forgets the larger part, which is always over the sun, the eternal and abiding things. If you want to know what a man of great privilege, and of great learning and great wisdom can come to, read this record of a man who has put God out of count in his actual life.” G Campbell Morgan
8. Ecclesiastes is a book that demonstrates that man’s attempt to find the meaning of life through power, possessions, pleasure, wisdom, status, riches, etc. leaves mankind feeling empty and unfulfilled.
9. I believe Solomon wrote from experience near the end of his life. He had wealth, wisdom, and women throughout his life. He could do anything he wanted and have anything he wanted, but in the end, he learned:
“The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil.”
Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
10. The purpose of the book of Ecclesiastes is to lead people to seek for meaning in life from God’s provision for them, not their own accomplishments.
11. Ecclesiastes is part of the Old Testament wisdom literature.
12. Ecclesiastes means ‘one who addresses an assembly of people,’ ‘teacher,’ or ‘preacher.’
13. Ecclesiastes presents harsh realities of living in a world broken by sin.
14. Ecclesiastes teaches us not to depend on ourselves and our own resources.
July 25, 2021
Lessons Learned
Ecclesiastes 1:12-15, 2:18-26
by Wayne Gaeddert
1. We can not make the mistake of making a good thing the ultimate thing.” Dr. Matt Capps
2. Earthly wisdom or accomplishments can not satisfy your soul or give meaning to life.
3. “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8
4. Solomon’s Old Testament perspective did not take into account the New Testament truth that death usher’s the believer into the presence of God.
5. “...do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31b
6. Leaving behind worldly treasures where moth and rust corrupt and thieves break in to steal in exchange for “the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints.” Ephesians 1:18c
7. Solomon did not have the luxury of all the New Testament truths about life after death.
8. Our works will be tested by fire; wood, hay, and stubble will be consumed by the fire, but the gold, silver and precious stones will remain as rewards. (See 1 Corinthians 3:13-15)
9. “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:21
10. Application:
The heart of mankind can only find meaning and satisfaction in life by a life transformed by Christ.
God has blessed you with the ability to earn money. Use your resources to:
Honor the kingdom of God.
Care for the needs of your family and yourself.
Enjoy the fruit of your labor.
Be a blessing to the poor. Proverbs 14:21
Anything other than dependence on and trust in God is an attempt to grasp the unattainable (to chase the wind). Dr. Matt Capps