1. The Book of Ecclesiastes
survey of the Bible
The Book of Ecclesiastes

2. General Overview
Ecclesiastes is the contemplation of Solomon as he looked back over the excesses of his life
though blessed by God with wisdom, he lived in unrighteousness (2 Chron. 1:11-12)(1 Kngs. 11:4-6)
however, it seems at the end of his life, he reflects on his errors for the benefit of others (12:1)
what is important and lasting in life?
may seem at first to present life as meaningless
in context of 12:13-14, accurately presents contrast between concerns of this life and of the next

3. Themes of Ecclesiastes
all is vanity [without God]
vanity (worthlessness) mentioned around 33 times
no amount of work, wealth, power, righteousness, or wisdom will change man’s inevitable end (1:1-4)
no amount of earthly pleasure will give life joy and fulfillment (1:12-14; 2:10-11; 5:10)
life isn’t necessarily fair (9:11-12)

4. Themes of Ecclesiastes
however, we can enjoy these things in God
remembering that all will be brought to judgment (11:9-12:1, 13-14)
enjoying our labor (2:24), friendships (4:9-12), material goods (5:18-20), wisdom (7:11-12), righteousness (8:12-13), family (9:9)

5. Importance to Christians
putting Christ first so we can enjoy blessings
earthly (Mt. 6:33)(1 Cor. 3:21-23)(Phil. 4:11-13)
spiritual (Col. 3:1-4)(Heb. 11:24-26)
listening to the wisdom of God’s word
Solomon tried to find fulfillment by trial and error
while we can gain wisdom by acknowledging our mistakes, the gospel is a simpler path (1 Cor. 2:1-5) (Prov. 3:1-8)

6. Conclusion
the book of Ecclesiastes provides a view of life that puts things in perspective
especially true in the gospel age as the blessings we are promised and the commitment we make are more clearly spiritual in nature
do we have a faith in God that allows us to enjoy life, despite its inequities, knowing the reward that awaits us? (2 Tim. 4:7-8)