Sunday, March 13th, 2016
Ecclesiastes 7-11:6
The book of Ecclesiastes contains Proverbs, maxims, sayings, and is largely an autobiographical story. Solomon wrote it late in his life, approximately 935 B.C. He had become aware of the mistakes that he made throughout his life and began to document them. The purpose of Ecclesiastes is to spare future generations the suffering and misery of seeking after foolish, meaningless, materialistic emptiness, and to offer wisdom by discovering truth in seeking after God. (Biblehub.com)
As you read, study and apply, ask the Holy Spirit to lead your group discussions. Work hard to make sure everyone has the opportunity to participate. Close by praying for one another.
- Overall, the Bible tells us that there are wise people and foolish people. What are some of the main differences between the two as found in Ecclesiastes 7?
- Ecclesiastes 7:1 says our day of death is better than our day of birth. Why do you think Solomon would say that? Do you agree with that statement? Why or why not?
- Why do you think we are so tempted to look back to the “good ‘ol days” and wish things would go back to being that way? Why does Solomon say that doing that isn’t wise?
- Verse 7:3 says that sorrow is better than laughter, and that by the sadness of the face the heart is made glad- how do you understand this? How have you experienced God in times of sorrow in a way that has brought joy to your heart?
- Read versus 7:15-7:18. Why do you think Solomon instructs us to not be overly righteous/wise, nor overly wicked/foolish? Shouldn’t we seek wisdom and righteousness in all things? How might this relate to your posture towards God?
- Where in the New Testament do you find the same truth spoken by Solomon in 7:20?