The book of Ecclesiastes might be the only book in all of scripture that we read and think, “Why is this even in the Bible?” In spite of that, some of the ideas and the language present in this Old Testament wisdom text have woven themselves into popular culture in such a way as to become intimately familiar to many of us (though we may not realize that Ecclesiastes is their source). How can we come to terms with the cynicism and despair of this text, and how does the dim outlook of its author square with the good news of the gospel?
Dust in the Wind
Sunday, February 10, 2019
Audio Video Ecclesiastes 1:1-18
The “Teacher” of Ecclesiastes has a bone to pick: life just isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. With words that seem to fly in the face of all that we believe scripture teaches and that Christians should stand for, the Teacher affirms the absurdity of life and the futility of finding purpose. What do we do with this text?
(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction
Sunday, February 17, 2019
Audio Video Ecclesiastes 2:1-11; 5:10-20
The Teacher investigates whether happiness can be attained through the pursuit of pleasure and riches. While he finds temporary enjoyment in these things, lasting joy remains elusive. Our tendency to chase after wind in our own pursuit of happiness means there is plenty for us to learn from the Teacher’s fruitless quest.
Turn! Turn! Turn!
Sunday, February 24, 2019
Audio Video Ecclesiastes 3:1-15
What we have learned to hear as a poem celebrating the beauty and balance of time and praising God for God’s sovereignty turns out to be further evidence for the Teacher of Ecclesiastes that life and all its pursuits are utterly absurd. What is our place in a world in which we have no control over what happens, and what does that say about God?
A Change Is Gonna Come
Sunday, March 3, 2019
Audio Video Ecclesiastes 3:16 – 4:3; 9:7-12
In some concluding reflections on the challenging argument put forth by the Teacher of Ecclesiastes, we consider what to take and what to leave—what the Teacher has taught us, and what he still stands to learn.
