Ecclesiastes 1-12 - Capitol Commission
Tuesday, 4th of April 2017
Capitol Commission Georgia
Living Well
Ron J. Bigalke, Ph.D. P.O. Box 244, Rincon, GA 31326-‐0244 (912) 659-‐4212 [email protected]
CAPITOL BIBLE STUDY
monthly (interim) schedule first Tuesday of the month
TUESDAY, 4 APRIL 2017 12 NOON in 123 CAP Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Studies are held the first Tuesday of each month at 12 Noon, in accordance with the Public Service Commission devotional at 9:55am. The monthly Bible study is nonpartisan and non-denominational. The current Bible study is the conclusion of our exposition in the book of Ecclesiastes. You can find archives of past Bible studies (beginning with 2010) at http://www.capitolcom.org/georgia /studies. I pray that this study will be edifying to you. My sole intent in this ministry is to serve you, and to be a resource to you for pastoral care, counsel, and prayer. Please accept my study in the Word of God, as evidence of my desire to serve you. – Dr. Ron J. Bigalke, Georgia State Minister, Capitol Commission
Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Study is
Tuesday, 4 April 2017 Ecclesiastes 1:1—12:14 – “Living Well” The five poetical books of the Bible – Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon – are often called “wisdom literature” because the style is similar to extra-biblical writings that are classified as such. The poetic elements are not immediately recognized when reading wisdom literature because Hebrew poetry is based upon parallelism of thought rather than correspondence of sound. The poetical books reveal a consideration of five questions involving foundational life issues. JOB
Why do righteous people suffer?
PSALMS
What is worship?
PROVERBS
What is wisdom?
ECCLESIASTES
What is the primary good?
SONG OF SOLOMON
What is love?
The biblical usage of “wind” in the wisdom literature is a frequent metaphor for aspects of life that do not possess abiding worth or are insubstantial. The phrase “striving after wind” (KJV, “vexation of spirit”) brings to mind a plethora of powerful images. Striving after wind “is vanity” (Eccl 1:14). Striving after wind produces a vexation of spirit because one never knows when it will change directions, nor is any warning given for those variations. Matthew 16:25 – “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. Even if one could obtain sufficient control of the wind, the ability to confine it is impossible because it will slip through one’s fingers, which is the same vanity for the person who strives after the “American dream.” For instance, when a person believes he or she has obtained enough money and possessions to produce happiness and security, the inevitable result is apprehension, boredom, purposelessness, and restlessness. French military and political leader Napoleon reflected upon this harsh reality. What an abysmal gulf between my deep miseries and the eternal kingdom of Christ. I marvel that whereas the ambitious dreams of myself and of Alexander and of Caesar should have vanished into thin air, a Judean peasant – Jesus – should be able to stretch his hands across the centuries, and control the destinies of men and nations [as quoted by Patrick Morley, The Man in the Mirror (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1997) 378-79].
If you and I will surrender our efforts in striving after the wind – for the Lord’s sake – then we will find abundant life and the primary good (cf. Matt 16:25; John 10:10).
THE QUESTION (Eccl 1:1-11) The thought process of the “natural man” (cf. 1 Cor 2:14) is reflected in portions of the book of Ecclesiastes, which means that such reasoning is the accurate depiction of human wisdom as opposed to “wisdom from above” (cf. Jas 3:17). The doctrine concerning the divine inspiration of the Bible affirms that Scripture is an accurate testimony of what God desired to be recorded, and thus the Bible records the lies of the devil, in addition to the opinions of the natural man (while not sanctioning those notions). Consequently, the basic perspective toward life is revealed in Ecclesiastes 1:2, where all existence is perceived as “vanity.” James 4:14 – Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. The Hebrew word hebel translated “vanity” does not mean vain (in the sense of pride); rather, the idea is something vaporous (cf. Jas 4:14). The metaphor “vanity” suggests that life is futile and transient, and thus without meaning or purpose. The notion of “vanity” is one of the dominant themes in the book of Ecclesiastes (repeated 31 times). Ecclesiastes immediately confronts the reader with the reality that life without God is meaningless.
Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Study 1st Tuesday (4th of April) from 12 Noon – 12:45pm, 123 CAP (friend sponsorship of Capitol Commission Georgia by Hobbs & Associates)
Tuesday, 4 April 2017
The weary character of life is illustrated in the realms of human existence and the natural world (1:4-11). Generations rise and then vanish with unchanging regularity (1:4), which is also evident in the continuous sequence of nature. Movement occurs constantly in the external realm, yet nothing is changed in essence.
incapacitating (12:3-8). Ecclesiastes compels one to enjoy life by living wisely, and by honoring God with every opportunity.
THE CONCLUSION
ECCLESIASTES IMMEDIATELY CONFRONTS THE READER WITH THE REALITY THAT LIFE WITHOUT GOD IS MEANINGLESS.
Boredom and cynicism are common ailments of contemporary society. The most customary woe today is not cancer or heart disease; rather, it is boredom that plagues both the individual and society. The abundance of leisure time has proven only to intensify the predicament, yet the cause is an approach to life that does not confer right and proper consideration of God.
Proverbs 1:7 – The fear of the L ORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. Considering the negative pursuit, Solomon learned that much study is “wearying to the body” (v. 12). Within the context of Ecclesiastes, he is making reference to study that excludes God. Solomon next expressed himself positively by summarizing his entire search: “fear God and keep His commandments” (v. 13; cf. Prov 1:7). To “fear God” means to have an attitude toward the Lord that is characterized by reverential trust, which is demonstrated externally by keeping God’s commandments. Faith (trust) in the Lord God is proved by obedience.
THE QUEST (Eccl 1:12—12:8) A sermonic format characterizes the book of Ecclesiastes; it reveals the search for the primary good. In the body of the sermon, there is detailed analysis with regard to all possibilities being explored. Frustration occurs when attempting to find meaning in life without God. Relying upon human wisdom (and excluding God in the process) will result in an ultimately meaningless and insignificant life. In 1:12—6:12, the Preacher describes what he experienced and observed in his examination. In 7:1—12:8, certain deductions are formulated based upon the quest in chapters 1—6. The analysis provides relevant conclusions and practical counsel.
Two reasons are given for pursuing a life of reverential trust in God. The first incentive is “because this applies to every person” (v. 13), or more literally, “for this is the whole of humanity.” To fear God and keep his commandments is all there is for humanity, which means to be the entire undertaking of life. The second reason is “for God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil” (v. 14). A life of reverential trust in the Lord God is best for both the present and the future.
The Preacher explains how he sought wisdom (1:12-18) and pleasure (2:1-11). Both searches involved a tremendous amount of effort, yet produced only inadequate conclusions. Life is next viewed more broadly with general observations made concerning it. God has a predetermined time for everything to occur; yet the reason is a mystery (3:1-15). Where justice is sought, “there is wickedness” (vv. 16-22). Judgment, nevertheless, occurs at death for all humanity (v. 17; Heb 9:27) either as eternal life or condemnation.
The conclusion of Ecclesiastes is consistent with all Scripture. For the book of Ecclesiastes to offer any genuine hope, there must be the power to actually put its wisdom into practice. Fortunately, through his life and death, Jesus Christ provides the ability to love and obey God. Jesus is the personification of the wisdom described in Ecclesiastes (cf. John 1:14). The New Testament expounds upon “the conclusion” (Eccl 12:13) of Ecclesiastes by demonstrating that the faith and obedience of which the Preacher spoke are to be placed in the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ.
FRUSTRATION OCCURS WHEN ATTEMPTING TO FIND MEANING IN LIFE WITHOUT GOD.
Life is oppressive (Eccl 4) yet it has certain advantages (chs. 5— 6). Therefore, in chapters 7—9, the Preacher made a series of comparisons, and then gave practical advice in 10:1—12:8. The cynicism is not as intense here (as in previous chapters), which indicates that the Preacher was getting closer to obtaining an answer concerning the primary good of life.
Thank you for allowing Capitol Commission the nobility in providing Bible studies to you. If we can serve you in any manner, please talk with us, or contact by email or phone.
About Capitol Commission Capitol Commission’s mission is to provide a pastoral presence in the capitol communities of our nation. In these communities, we purpose to reach every person with the gospel of Jesus Christ, to disciple them, and prepare them for a lifetime of ministry in whatever arena God chooses to place them. Our mandate is to see the hearts and lives of elected officials, their staffs, and lobbyists – the entire capitol community – transformed with the Word of God. Capitol Commission, Inc is a charitable and religious nonprofit corporation operating exclusively for charitable and religious purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Certain deductions are noteworthy: (1) a little foolishness may be disastrous (10:1), and thus it is better to have a life characterized by wisdom; (2) it is possible to adopt too many precautions, and let fear cripple an existence (11:1-8); and, (3) it is wise to enjoy life and serve God for as many years as possible (11:9—12:8). When the elderly life arrives, one should be ready for it so that old age is not
this week’s Bible studies sponsored by:
(Eccl 12:9-14) Solomon (or “the Preacher,” as he called himself) provided an explanation of his methodology in seeking to identify the primary good in life. Not only did he seek wisdom, but also he “taught the people knowledge” (v. 9) by seeking “to find delightful words and to write words of truth correctly” (v. 10). Solomon expressed his quest both negatively and positively.
Bible study copies made by:
NEXT CAPITOL COMMISSION (INTERIM) BIBLE STUDY:
HOBBS & ASSOCIATES Atlanta, GA
Tuesday, 2nd of May @ 12 Noon in 123 CAP (the 1st Tuesday of each month, during interim)
Capitol Commission Georgia
Living Well
Ron J. Bigalke, Ph.D. P.O. Box 244, Rincon, GA 31326-‐0244 (912) 659-‐4212 [email protected]
CAPITOL BIBLE STUDY
monthly (interim) schedule first Tuesday of the month
TUESDAY, 4 APRIL 2017 12 NOON in 123 CAP Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Studies are held the first Tuesday of each month at 12 Noon, in accordance with the Public Service Commission devotional at 9:55am. The monthly Bible study is nonpartisan and non-denominational. The current Bible study is the conclusion of our exposition in the book of Ecclesiastes. You can find archives of past Bible studies (beginning with 2010) at http://www.capitolcom.org/georgia /studies. I pray that this study will be edifying to you. My sole intent in this ministry is to serve you, and to be a resource to you for pastoral care, counsel, and prayer. Please accept my study in the Word of God, as evidence of my desire to serve you. – Dr. Ron J. Bigalke, Georgia State Minister, Capitol Commission
Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Study is
Tuesday, 4 April 2017 Ecclesiastes 1:1—12:14 – “Living Well” The five poetical books of the Bible – Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and the Song of Solomon – are often called “wisdom literature” because the style is similar to extra-biblical writings that are classified as such. The poetic elements are not immediately recognized when reading wisdom literature because Hebrew poetry is based upon parallelism of thought rather than correspondence of sound. The poetical books reveal a consideration of five questions involving foundational life issues. JOB
Why do righteous people suffer?
PSALMS
What is worship?
PROVERBS
What is wisdom?
ECCLESIASTES
What is the primary good?
SONG OF SOLOMON
What is love?
The biblical usage of “wind” in the wisdom literature is a frequent metaphor for aspects of life that do not possess abiding worth or are insubstantial. The phrase “striving after wind” (KJV, “vexation of spirit”) brings to mind a plethora of powerful images. Striving after wind “is vanity” (Eccl 1:14). Striving after wind produces a vexation of spirit because one never knows when it will change directions, nor is any warning given for those variations. Matthew 16:25 – “For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. Even if one could obtain sufficient control of the wind, the ability to confine it is impossible because it will slip through one’s fingers, which is the same vanity for the person who strives after the “American dream.” For instance, when a person believes he or she has obtained enough money and possessions to produce happiness and security, the inevitable result is apprehension, boredom, purposelessness, and restlessness. French military and political leader Napoleon reflected upon this harsh reality. What an abysmal gulf between my deep miseries and the eternal kingdom of Christ. I marvel that whereas the ambitious dreams of myself and of Alexander and of Caesar should have vanished into thin air, a Judean peasant – Jesus – should be able to stretch his hands across the centuries, and control the destinies of men and nations [as quoted by Patrick Morley, The Man in the Mirror (Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1997) 378-79].
If you and I will surrender our efforts in striving after the wind – for the Lord’s sake – then we will find abundant life and the primary good (cf. Matt 16:25; John 10:10).
THE QUESTION (Eccl 1:1-11) The thought process of the “natural man” (cf. 1 Cor 2:14) is reflected in portions of the book of Ecclesiastes, which means that such reasoning is the accurate depiction of human wisdom as opposed to “wisdom from above” (cf. Jas 3:17). The doctrine concerning the divine inspiration of the Bible affirms that Scripture is an accurate testimony of what God desired to be recorded, and thus the Bible records the lies of the devil, in addition to the opinions of the natural man (while not sanctioning those notions). Consequently, the basic perspective toward life is revealed in Ecclesiastes 1:2, where all existence is perceived as “vanity.” James 4:14 – Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. The Hebrew word hebel translated “vanity” does not mean vain (in the sense of pride); rather, the idea is something vaporous (cf. Jas 4:14). The metaphor “vanity” suggests that life is futile and transient, and thus without meaning or purpose. The notion of “vanity” is one of the dominant themes in the book of Ecclesiastes (repeated 31 times). Ecclesiastes immediately confronts the reader with the reality that life without God is meaningless.
Capitol Commission (interim) Bible Study 1st Tuesday (4th of April) from 12 Noon – 12:45pm, 123 CAP (friend sponsorship of Capitol Commission Georgia by Hobbs & Associates)
Tuesday, 4 April 2017
The weary character of life is illustrated in the realms of human existence and the natural world (1:4-11). Generations rise and then vanish with unchanging regularity (1:4), which is also evident in the continuous sequence of nature. Movement occurs constantly in the external realm, yet nothing is changed in essence.
incapacitating (12:3-8). Ecclesiastes compels one to enjoy life by living wisely, and by honoring God with every opportunity.
THE CONCLUSION
ECCLESIASTES IMMEDIATELY CONFRONTS THE READER WITH THE REALITY THAT LIFE WITHOUT GOD IS MEANINGLESS.
Boredom and cynicism are common ailments of contemporary society. The most customary woe today is not cancer or heart disease; rather, it is boredom that plagues both the individual and society. The abundance of leisure time has proven only to intensify the predicament, yet the cause is an approach to life that does not confer right and proper consideration of God.
Proverbs 1:7 – The fear of the L ORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. Considering the negative pursuit, Solomon learned that much study is “wearying to the body” (v. 12). Within the context of Ecclesiastes, he is making reference to study that excludes God. Solomon next expressed himself positively by summarizing his entire search: “fear God and keep His commandments” (v. 13; cf. Prov 1:7). To “fear God” means to have an attitude toward the Lord that is characterized by reverential trust, which is demonstrated externally by keeping God’s commandments. Faith (trust) in the Lord God is proved by obedience.
THE QUEST (Eccl 1:12—12:8) A sermonic format characterizes the book of Ecclesiastes; it reveals the search for the primary good. In the body of the sermon, there is detailed analysis with regard to all possibilities being explored. Frustration occurs when attempting to find meaning in life without God. Relying upon human wisdom (and excluding God in the process) will result in an ultimately meaningless and insignificant life. In 1:12—6:12, the Preacher describes what he experienced and observed in his examination. In 7:1—12:8, certain deductions are formulated based upon the quest in chapters 1—6. The analysis provides relevant conclusions and practical counsel.
Two reasons are given for pursuing a life of reverential trust in God. The first incentive is “because this applies to every person” (v. 13), or more literally, “for this is the whole of humanity.” To fear God and keep his commandments is all there is for humanity, which means to be the entire undertaking of life. The second reason is “for God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil” (v. 14). A life of reverential trust in the Lord God is best for both the present and the future.
The Preacher explains how he sought wisdom (1:12-18) and pleasure (2:1-11). Both searches involved a tremendous amount of effort, yet produced only inadequate conclusions. Life is next viewed more broadly with general observations made concerning it. God has a predetermined time for everything to occur; yet the reason is a mystery (3:1-15). Where justice is sought, “there is wickedness” (vv. 16-22). Judgment, nevertheless, occurs at death for all humanity (v. 17; Heb 9:27) either as eternal life or condemnation.
The conclusion of Ecclesiastes is consistent with all Scripture. For the book of Ecclesiastes to offer any genuine hope, there must be the power to actually put its wisdom into practice. Fortunately, through his life and death, Jesus Christ provides the ability to love and obey God. Jesus is the personification of the wisdom described in Ecclesiastes (cf. John 1:14). The New Testament expounds upon “the conclusion” (Eccl 12:13) of Ecclesiastes by demonstrating that the faith and obedience of which the Preacher spoke are to be placed in the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ.
FRUSTRATION OCCURS WHEN ATTEMPTING TO FIND MEANING IN LIFE WITHOUT GOD.
Life is oppressive (Eccl 4) yet it has certain advantages (chs. 5— 6). Therefore, in chapters 7—9, the Preacher made a series of comparisons, and then gave practical advice in 10:1—12:8. The cynicism is not as intense here (as in previous chapters), which indicates that the Preacher was getting closer to obtaining an answer concerning the primary good of life.
Thank you for allowing Capitol Commission the nobility in providing Bible studies to you. If we can serve you in any manner, please talk with us, or contact by email or phone.
About Capitol Commission Capitol Commission’s mission is to provide a pastoral presence in the capitol communities of our nation. In these communities, we purpose to reach every person with the gospel of Jesus Christ, to disciple them, and prepare them for a lifetime of ministry in whatever arena God chooses to place them. Our mandate is to see the hearts and lives of elected officials, their staffs, and lobbyists – the entire capitol community – transformed with the Word of God. Capitol Commission, Inc is a charitable and religious nonprofit corporation operating exclusively for charitable and religious purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Certain deductions are noteworthy: (1) a little foolishness may be disastrous (10:1), and thus it is better to have a life characterized by wisdom; (2) it is possible to adopt too many precautions, and let fear cripple an existence (11:1-8); and, (3) it is wise to enjoy life and serve God for as many years as possible (11:9—12:8). When the elderly life arrives, one should be ready for it so that old age is not
this week’s Bible studies sponsored by:
(Eccl 12:9-14) Solomon (or “the Preacher,” as he called himself) provided an explanation of his methodology in seeking to identify the primary good in life. Not only did he seek wisdom, but also he “taught the people knowledge” (v. 9) by seeking “to find delightful words and to write words of truth correctly” (v. 10). Solomon expressed his quest both negatively and positively.
Bible study copies made by:
NEXT CAPITOL COMMISSION (INTERIM) BIBLE STUDY:
HOBBS & ASSOCIATES Atlanta, GA
Tuesday, 2nd of May @ 12 Noon in 123 CAP (the 1st Tuesday of each month, during interim)
