Sermon nuggets Mon Feb 9
Theme- A WORKMAN'S WORRY
Verses-Eccl 2:10 I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor.(NIV)
Reflections on Work
Last week we talked about Solomon's pursuit of pleasure. This week day we are going to look at his thoughts regarding work. Some of his work related to building and construction, as well as ruling and the administration of the nation. He worked with investments and the acquiring of many goods. There were things that kept Solomon very busy. Now he reflects on the place of labor. Solomon admitted that at the beginning he found enjoyment in his work. It was a delight to him. Do you enjoy the work you're doing?
One fellow went to the doctor's "Give it to me straight not all in the scientific language" "You're lazy."
"Thank you, Now give me the scientific word so I can tell my wife."
God made man to work. We are not meant to be lazy. We find purpose when we are able to earn a living. When God placed man on earth in the Garden of Eden it was a perfect environment. There were no slaves and servants, such as Solomon had to take care of all his needs and wants.
God had given Adam some responsibilities. He gave man work to do. Gen 1:28 says, "God blessed them and said to them, "Be fruitful and multiply in number. Fill the earth and subdue it. Rule of the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground." Adam was given the assignment to care for that which God has created and to name the animals. Now isn't that something. God could have cared for it all, in fact he does. But He gave to man the responsibility to organize and work his creation as our enjoyment of what he has given to us.
One person tells the story of enjoying farm land that looked like from the magazines. It had beautiful crops and well manicured gardens and lawns. The person told the farmer, "Isn't God great to supply you with all this? "
He said, "He is, but you should have seen how it was kept before I came along." What some fail to realize is that it was God's intent that we work the soil; bring the crops into greater productivity. He gave man that job. But without the rain, sun and temperatures proper weather and the farmer would be out of business in a day.
There has been political debate over our environment. However you feel about global warming or protection of endangered species, as Christians we need to know that taking care of God’s earth is one of the responsibilities God gave to mankind right from creation. This is my Father’s world. We take delight in it, not abuse it. We were made to have dominion over the land and over the animals. God gave us work to take care of His world. It is a spiritual responsibility. The danger in man’s thinking is when he places himself as God in charge instead of recognizing our part in God’s design.
I am glad that we are spending much more attention to pollution and recycling. Some people because of the sin of greed and selfishness give no thought to future generations, and abuse God's resources for all people. The Lord God took the man and put him in the world to work and take care of it.
With unemployment the way it is in our economic crises, if you have a job, not only thank the Lord but work as unto the Lord as a gift from Him. If you are looking for work seek the gifts and abilities you have been given and let’s also help one another within our church family to pray, support, and encourage. Perhaps you can also give jobs to others to provide for themselves and families. I would like to post jobs and needs on Copes Computer every Wednesday.
Pray and participate. That is the plan for work as we serve God and one another together.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues Feb 10
Verses- Eccl 2:17-19 So I hated life, because the work that is done under the sun was grievous to me. All of it is meaningless, a chasing after the wind. I hated all the things I had toiled for under the sun, because I must leave them to the one who comes after me. And who knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool? Yet he will have control over all the work into which I have poured my effort and skill under the sun. This too is meaningless.
Reflections on Weariness
The delight of work is when one can be used of God to see that needs are met, and help others in their times of need. The delight of work is to see some accomplishments. When you have finished a project or activities and have it said, "Good Job" can give some people worth. When others are helped or blessed, when goals are met, when purpose is fulfilled it is good and it can be a delight to be part of what God made us to be.
God gave mankind work to do. We will be working in heaven. It will be fulfilling as we carry out the work of the Lord and are part of His greater plan. But labor changed when sin entered the world. Things would not be as enjoyable any longer. Gen. 3:17-19 "Because you listened to your wife and ate from the tree which I commanded you must not eat of it. Cursed is the ground because of you through painful toil you will eat of it all the days of your life."
As Solomon continues his thoughts on work it hits him that for all he delighted in achieving, some day that will all be gone and who knows what will happen when he leave it behind. Fools take over his dreams and accomplishments. Many entrepreneurs who work very hard lose their companies or sell them only to find their dreams fall apart and result in ruin.
How do the CEOs of large companies evaluate their work when the stock market is crashing? I heard on the TV people who are losing their homes who cry out, “after we worked all our lives for something it is now gone.” A bank or credit company will own the home they worked for and someone else will get for far less money the fruits of their labors. That is the feeling of futility.
The New Testament speaks on the importance of work in our fallen world. 1 Thes 4:11-12 Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. And II Th 3:10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "If a man will not work, he shall not eat."
Gustov Ohler said, "Man like God, is to work and rest, thus human life is to be a copy of divine life. God created for 6 days, rested on the 7th day and then began to work again.
Since the fall work took on a different meaning. Now toil became part of the curse of sin. We work not only because of the pleasure of work, but there are elements in all work that are burdensome. Chores, sweat, dirty, hard labor is part of the plight of man as farmers well know. Weeds and thistles, rocks and bad weather is part of our struggle.
Notice that Solomon delved into work but it wasn't long when the delight turned into drudgery. He was not fulfilled. It became wearisome to him. For all his toil it did not produce the lasting peace he was looking for.
Now let me say that Solomon had what we will never have-power, wisdom, fame, wealth, property, and abilities to pursue life under the sun to the fullest. However, life of people on earth is better now than it has ever been. You can read stories of how life was then, and even 200 years ago people lived with poor health, no hope, etching out living under slavery and oppression. There were days when child labor laws did not exist and textile companies worked children 6-10 years old 12 hours a day. There were people in slaughter houses who when injured on the job would lose their jobs. There were horrible unhealthy work conditions and people were at unmerciful hands of employers. We are cleaner, more attractive, more pampered, and have greater luxury than our parents and grandparent and they had life easier than their parents and grandparents. Have we made improvements? You bet we have.
I think of life in my days without cars without TV or stereos, without washing machines, dryers, microwaves. It is hard to imagine not using computers and cell phones and electronic conveniences. But we are not happier. We are just as sad. There is as much anxiety in our day as felt by Solomon in all his plenty and with all his labors. Weariness can come from emotional draining. It seems when there is no purpose more than the paycheck, people are weary in their work. Housewives can easily find it frustrating when all the days labor is destroyed as soon as kids and husband comes home only to do it all over again.
Do you feel as if you are on a working treadmill? Is your work drudgery or delight? What makes it so? How can it change?
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Weds Feb 11
Eccl 2:20-21 So my heart began to despair over all my toilsome labor under the sun. For a man may do his work with wisdom, knowledge and skill, and then he must leave all he owns to someone who has not worked for it. This too is meaningless and a great misfortune.
Reflections on Workaholicism
Perhaps I should entitle this devotional “confessions of a workaholic.” Solomon reflects the feelings of the day that say even though we excel in our accomplishments and make it to the top, and even though you meet all your goals something is missing. It is not fulfilling. We have a measure of enjoyment in what we do, but if all our labor is monuments and trophies and things, there is really nothing to them. Vanity of vanity; all is vanity,.
God gave us work to do, but if God is not in the work we do all the energies we put in the work is worthless. Many people are burned out because they are so busy in their lives and in their work they miss out on that very thing that will give purpose.
Why do workaholics work so much? Perhaps it is because it appears to be a religious virtue. So many men work hard to provide for their families only to find they have lost their families. A simple life has become increasingly unpopular. Many Christians believe if they are not on the top of everything God must not be blessing them. There is a tremendous confusion over the way man interprets success and God.
There is an appropriate protestant work ethic in our society. It came from the conviction of having a fair wage for a fair days work. It is godly to do our best to please our employers, as well as to treat our employees with fairness and right compensation. There are Christian principles by which we need to guide our lives at home and at work. But our self esteem is not based on how many hours we put in or how much money we make, or how much we can show people we've done. Solomon reminds us that can be the very thing that brings dissatisfaction. For such a person work is his or her whole life. The workaholic is living in a performance oriented cultures. v. 23 says, All his days his work is pain and grief; even at night his mind does not rest."
Compulsive workers overload days with toil; Fills nights with worry and misses the simple joys of God. I believe some of the real issues are not being addressed. For you see, work become an end in and of itself. It isn't the benefits of salary as much as the task is pleasurable. Some will not rest even if they are tired for tiredness is a sign of laziness. Most are motivated by power, seeking to be on the top, highly competitive and wanting to win and prove it to self.
But it isn't the hours that a man puts in that is important it is what a man puts into those hours. Luther said he had so much to do that he needed to spend at least 3 hours in prayer. We cannot have guilt trips because we do not spend 3 hours a day in prayer, nor feeling unworthy because we don't work 10 to 16 hours days 6 days a week. Many women who are increasing the work force are also finding themselves increase with many of the physical and emotional strains that men have. Women are increasing with heart attacks, ulcers, and high blood pressure.
Solomon said all this toil is vanity and chasing of the wind. As I read my words I feel hypocritical because I was awake at 2:45 AM not sleeping. I find too many things rambling through my mind. I think of the many things that just never get accomplished. There are also more people to visit, more programs to plan, more books to read, more sermons to write, more people who want to see you. The work can be most fulfilling or most discouraging.
Look at the life of Paul. He never stopped or slowed down infulfilling God's mission for his life to take the Gospel to the lost andhurting outside the four walls of the church. He pressed forward,tirelessly, until the very end when he was martyred for his faith in Jesus Christ. Despite the great personal sacrifices, putting his life on the line each day, fighting all of the obstacles he had to face each step of the way, Paul persevered!
The call to follow the Lord with all your heart, can be quickly clouded with personal responsibilities that call for our attention. Whither in the church or the world the wheel of the hamster cage runs round and round and we seem to get no further.
Ps 127:1 Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Thurs Feb 12
Eccl 2:22 What does a man get for all the toil and anxious striving with which he labors under the sun? All his days his work is pain and grief; even at night his mind does not rest. This too is meaningless.
Reflections on Worry
I remember reading the story of one pastor who felt his main job was to be a servant to his people. He was run ragged and felt tremendous guilt over his increasing resentment of the very people he wanted to serve. He was getting phone calls up to 4 a day by a particular lady who expected him to be her errant boy. She demanded that he take her shopping each week because that was what the former pastor did. She wanted him to pick up her relatives from the airport. Finally when she called to have him help wrap her Christmas packages because that was the other pastor did he put his foot down. He worried he was not doing a good job as a pastor when he was seeking to live up to the expectations of all his people. His worries and over work were headed for burn out. He never felt he was doing a good enough job.
Now there is increased worry over losing jobs. The economy has caused great worry among the workforce also bit resulting in increased performance so people will not lose their jobs. When the competition is greater people are sticking to jobs they do not like and doing them better so they don’t get laid off. When cut backs are made it is easier now for employers to let go of the ones who are least productive and the blame goes to the bad economy. Outsourcing also gives higher paying jobs to countries like India which accomplishes the same work for a fraction of the pay.
I was aware of a successful engineer laid off from work. He was too embarrassed to tell any of his friends. Initially he didn't want even his wife and kids to know. To begin with he left the house and came home at the normal time, but spent his time looking for work until his wife found out. He certainly was too embarrassed to share this news with those in his church. Because he didn't work and couldn't provide for his family, he saw himself as failure and lost his self-worth. He had a hard time living with himself because so many men only find value in their labor, not in their life.
For lots of worry is really wrapped up in pride. Pride says we want to be self sufficient, and not depend on anyone else. Pride doesn't want to have the pity of other people. What finally brought this engineer to his senses was someone in his church did commit suicide because he didn't have a job and thought no one would understand. The place where there should be healing is the hardest place to put down our pride.
Perfectionists worry a lot. They have to have everything just right in their work. The problems come when they cannot do their work perfectly or make common mistake. There is increased anxiety and worry and Solomon understood that thousands of years before. Things do not bring satisfaction.
One worry of Solomon that he mentions is the fact that you work so hard to accomplish your goals, but after you reach them then what? There is the problem with others, fools, wrecking what you worked so hard to achieve. “Why bother?”, he asks in frustration.
When the main focus of our attention is on work it is no longer pleasurable but we become a slave to our anxieties and our worries, most of which we can do little about. Solomon reflected on this whirlwind of activity and decided changes need to be made. He was focusing on the wrong things and was miserable.
How do you look upon your work? Are you at peace with what you do and are doing? What worries you? What alternatives are there for your worries?
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Fri. Feb 13
Verses- Eccl 2:24-26 A man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?
To the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner he gives the task of gathering and storing up wealth to hand it over to the one who pleases God. This too is meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
Reflecting on Worth of Work
Whether you are seeking education, or pleasure, or work, the answer to fulfillment is found in Christ. Enjoyment of all things comes from God. Solomon tells us if we think we will have lasting enjoyment from our job that will soon fade away. But when we surrender ourselves to God's desires then enjoyment is gift from God, just like salvation is a gift. What happens on the inside makes a difference. Work, pleasure, and whatever possessions we might have can be enjoyed or not enjoyed depending on our obedience and perception of what God has called us to be and to do.
Man's work can make of him a slave, and lead him to an early grave, but if he waits upon the Lord, His labors bring him great reward. The man who recognizes all he has comes from the hand of God can partake of the simple lifestyle with the grateful heart. Even menial work can have significance.
God gifts to man are basic life functions; to eat, drink and find satisfaction in work. The contrast of the life of the sinner and the life of the godly presented here reflects this crucial dimension-A dynamic relationship with a living, loving God. The workaholic has no time for spouse, children, friend, let alone God, but the godly person makes his or her first priority to know God. When we know Him we have a new alternatives and new ways of understanding life. We have a new ways of relating to our work.
What are the simple pleasures? The first factor is to be able to eat and drink. When was the last time you enjoyed a meal? Psychologists have observed that many people who experience anxiety eat quickly, not enjoying their food and finding it tasteless. More acute anxiety may lead to not eating at all. Some of your biggest tycoons have such ulcer problems they live on mile, raw eggs and Maalox. Others overeat when anxious and worry.
The other simple pleasure is to find satisfaction in work. Are you enjoying your work? Do you realize that God can bless you in the moment by moment aspects of your labors? The capitalist work ethic makes a god of productivity while ignoring the personal impact. Do you believe God gave you the job that you now have? Are you using it to bring his kingdom light into your employment or with the people? Is God directing you to a different job? Ecclesiastes tells us that not our works or performance, but our relationship to God is what pleases him. When a person seeks that relationship then God grants wisdom, knowledge, and happiness.
Some people are so busy learning the tricks of the trade that they don't learn the trade. Our purpose is found in I Cor 10:31 so whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." History has shown when people are saved from sin by Jesus Christ, it affects their whole life and witness even to those who are their employers and employees.
God has ordained work, even though sin has flawed it. God has ordained work to meet our needs. It is not always easy. But honest labor can be fulfilling if seen as a gift from Him.
Many retired folks find greater enjoyment in volunteer work since their financial needs are met. They are able to give of themselves in new ways to the Lord, family, church and God. There is a renewed joy in the accomplishments as God directs interest and gifts with his Kingdom.
If you let God set up your schedule how would your days change? How would that affect your life at work, at home and at church as well as your recreation?
Pastor Dale.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Friday, February 6, 2009
Pleasure's Pursuits Ecclesiates 2:1-11
Sermon Nuggets, Week of Feb 2 Eccl 2:1-11
Sermon Nuggets Mon Feb 2
Theme Pleasure's Pursuits
Eccl 2:1
1 I thought in my heart, "Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good." But that also proved to be meaningless.
Pondering Pleasure
Peanuts: Lucy:"Do you think life has any meaning?”
Charlie Brown: "I I...”
Lucy: "I mean, do you think life has any meaning after you failed 9 spelling tests in a row and your teacher hates you?"
Charlie "That's a different question."
Solomon was also asking "what is the meaning of life? What's it all about?" The wisest man was so caught up in his own pursuits that his relationship with God became strained. Finally, judgment fell verbally on Solomon and his family. It was like failing 9 exams and having his teacher is mad at him. Then does life have meaning? That is a different question and Solomon answers, "No".
What gives us pleasure? Do you feel like you are missing out whereas others are enjoying life? What if you had enough money that you didn’t need to deny yourself of anything you wanted to do. That was Solomon’s situation.
I remember thinking as a teen "This is suppose to be the most exciting time of my whole life and adults look back and say you're only young once." Then I'd look at my life and ask, "Am I really enjoying all of life to the fullest?" I was a virgin and I wonder what it would be like to have sexual intercourse. So many other kids were doing it? I wondered about drinking and partying, and smoking, and going to places that my folks would never allow. So many other kids were saying it's really a blast. I'd wonder if the other world, the world of the non Christian was really having fun.
Oh, I enjoyed some of the things that our church and church youth group was doing, but I had to admit some of it was really boring. I enjoyed church, but I also didn't want to go sometimes, but went anyway. I wondered, what if got through my teenage and college years and then discovered that I really did miss out on the good times. Would it then be too late? Youth are no different today.
But these thoughts are not limited to young people. Men in middle age wonder if there is more to life than being tied to family responsibilities. Many are lured into the gambling casinos for the promise of a better life than they have now. Pornography promises thrills to the sexually hungry. More games are being offered than ever before. Pleasure spending has increased almost 20% in the past 10 years. Americans are among the few cultures than really work at their play and too often play at their work.
I can assure you, however, there was not one that could match the pleasure seeking of king Solomon. No American can hold a candle to this pleasure seeker. In Solomon's Sermon he discusses pleasure from different perspectives.
What gives you pleasure now in your stage of life? What do you think you might be missing out on? These are the questions for our thoughts this week.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Tues Feb 3
Verse Eccl 2:2-10 "Laughter," I said, "is foolish. And what does pleasure accomplish?"
3 I tried cheering myself with wine, and embracing folly-- my mind still guiding me with wisdom. I wanted to see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives.
10 I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor.(NIV)
The Pursuit of Pleasure
Solomon pursued pleasure as a means to happiness. He denied himself nothing that he saw and wanted.
Pleasure is seen by many when there is lots of laughter and having a good time with friends. I think people should laugh more. I typically enjoy comedies, and telling of jokes. Some of Lawrence Olson’s family was concerned that we weren’t good for each other when we got together because we exchanged too many bad jokes. Even though people might groan when Vernon Christensen starts telling another one of his famous jokes, we delight in them for they bring laughter.
Christians on TV or in the movies have been portrayed as stern, sober, and judgmental. That isn’t the picture of pleasure. There are so many somber and sad looking faces. Charles Swindoll says laughter is tremendous medicine and it can be spiritual as well. Humor is a way to bring balance and sanity in life.
I know and admire a very good Bible teacher and preacher that feels very strongly that there is no place for humor in the pulpit. “The Gospel is serious business” he says. “We need to ask serious questions. Some don't take seriously the message of God.”
What does it mean to be created for God’s pleasure and purpose? We find our pleasure not only in Him but in His blessings. Eden was put there for more reasons than food for humans. They delighted in all of creation.
Solomon also sought to make himself merry with wine. Notice how much wine and booze always play such an important part people seeking pleasure. Many drug addicts start with parties where dope is shared for the purpose of having a good time. Drinking helps people forget their troubles for awhile. When someone is giddy, or finds everything funny, people assume they have been drinking.
Solomon also said he embraced folly or frivolity. Acting silly and doing foolish things can be done with those seeking pleasure. I see how some people dress up for football games, or silliness shown at costume parties. Practical jokes played on one another just for the fun of it, brings out diversion from routine, but the king said, “my mind still guided me with wisdom. I wanted to see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives." I think he is saying, I drank to cheer up, but not to the point of losing my sense. I didn't go overboard or get stone drunk, or spend all my time acting foolish. He sought wine, women and song. That is the philosophy of the hedonist.
One of the most popular TV shows was CHEERS. The message of the program was pleasure is found when you drink a lot and pursuit sex. Watch the popular comedies today and see how much sin is the focus for a good time. There is a pleasure that leads to addictions. There are events that become cover ups to the emptiness inside.
We can see the type of parties Solomon had if you read I Kings 4:20-23. That party would have to feed 30,000 to 40,000 people. Like all the inaugural balls the kingdom was partying. But like our new president, King Solomon realized the next day the party was over. Now what?
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Weds Feb 4
Verses- Eccl 2:4 I undertook great projects: I built houses for myself and planted vineyards.
5 I made gardens and parks and planted all kinds of fruit trees in them.
6 I made reservoirs to water groves of flourishing trees.
7 I bought male and female slaves and had other slaves who were born in my house. I also owned more herds and flocks than anyone in Jerusalem before me.
8 I amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and provinces. I acquired men and women singers, and a harem as well-- the delights of the heart of man.
9 I became greater by far than anyone in Jerusalem before me. In all this my wisdom stayed with me.
The Pleasure of Possessions.
We will discuss possessions and finances again but as an part of his introduction to his sermon the King reveals he sought pleasure in possessions and building projects. Many think happiness is in nicer homes and beautiful lawns and spacious estates. People will drive all around Hollywood to see the actors' homes. Folks like to travel in the richest areas of the suburbs just to look at mansions and homes that are picture perfect. I would take friends down Grand Avenue to show off how the other side lived. Going to Europe people are still fascinated with the ornate castles and cathedrals.
Solomon had projects, elaborate homes, acres of vineyards, celebrations with parades. He had manicured parks including fruit trees and reservoirs to water groves of flourishing trees. There were excavations of his barns for the horses, courtyards, and 3 large reservoirs were discovered. His pools were between the size of a football field and another twice the size. With all these things he still failed to find inner peace. He knows what it was to build the most lavish of houses, which took 13 years to build. Even without the modern conveniences his was greater than the homes of the rich and famous. Many dream of the joys of pleasure through homes by the lake, and homes to get away in the winter. Nothing wrong with these, but then come taxes, work, responsibilities and the dreams are always better than the reality.
In addition to his homes, Solomon also got into collecting jewels and articles of silver and gold. He also had his own home entertainment center by brining in live music with singers, bands, and entertainers, He wrote over 1000 songs and got choirs to do some of his own compositions. He was a man of the arts.
Eccl. 10:19 "A feast is made for laughter, and wine makes life merry, but money is the answer for everything."
Then there were the pleasures of women. Solomon wrote about love in the Song of Solomon and the pleasures of sexual relationship with his wife whom he loves. We don't have many sermons from the book of Song of Solomon but its there and it is expressing the joy of love. When a man has 1,000 wives he should know about that area of life. The women and concubines could fulfill any sensual and sexual desires he had. Yet his boredom was so great it could not be described. He ran out of words to say it, other than futility.
I think one of the saddest verses in the Bible is Matt 16:26 “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?”(NIV)
What is your dream that you long to possess? Is it God’s will? Have you prayed about it? Do you think that will finally bring happiness?
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Thurs Feb 5
Verses- Eccl 2:1
1 I thought in my heart, "Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good." But that also proved to be meaningless.
The Pain of Pleasure.
Of course few people do not discover the pain of pleasure until later. How many times have people warned others of drug and alcoholic abuse, only to find it falls on deaf ears? How often have people shared the pain of premarital sex and living situations only to see young and old continuing to face sexual disease and heartache? It is hard to take the testimony of others. But sometimes a few listen.
A lot of people seek pleasure as an escape from the void of the real need in their life. Many are afraid of stopping their busy pursuit because then they might hear the voice of God to speak to them. When Solomon stopped the merry-go-round of pleasure he felt empty and unfulfilled. He discovered the hard way the effects of sin and the futility of pleasure. Solomon had a limitless supply of money and no sense of accountability. When it was all said and done, he concluded "What an empty, futile trip."People that seek meaning in pleasures find that the time is just postponed until they must deal with life's reality. There is a price to be paid.
Solomon can save us years of heartache if we will only heed what he says. This comes from the wisest and richest man who ever lived and he is telling us truth about illicit sex, about alcohol, about drugs, about the occult, and all the things that appeal to our erotic desires. Physical pleasures do not last long.
A pleasure seeking culture will also fall in time. The Roman civilization began with high moral standards, and sanctity of home and passion for justice and honesty. But the empire fell into debauchery and decline. Their extravagant prosperity moved their morality to immorality. Their pleasures of games turned into more violent and sexual games that cost people their lives. Their entertainment became pleasures with sadistic behavior as they watched other human beings inflict punishment, suffering and death in the coliseums. Rome fell into ruins. But it had really fallen long earlier.
Solomon wrote a few chapters later, "Laughter is like the cracking if burning thorns (7:6) they blaze forth with great promise but last only a moment, giving off little heat and leaving nothing but ashes." Solomon discovered the snare of pleasure promises far more than it produces. It may be satisfying only during the time, but it leaves us thirsty for the next and unsatisfied afterwards.
One man in despair went to see a psychologist who listening to his account of unhappiness. He encouraged the man to visit the show of an Italian comedian in town. It would bring him laughter again. The man responded "I am that comedian." Prov 14:13 "Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief." There are many who play the clown on the outside while inside life is miserable and full of tears.
The pain of pleasure is millions of lives and broken marriages and children becoming victims of increasing divorce with the new sexual freedoms and license for pleasure. The joy of sex entices some into the joy of getting away from it all. The pain of paying for it is AIDS, broken relationships, abortions, unwanted pregnancies are causes our society to ask what is a family today?
Our society today is in economic chaos as the search for the pleasurable life now and the opulent lifestyle proves empty. Peace is not found in more money, larger houses, and wild parties. Pain is felt and many are hurt in the process when pleasure becomes our god.
I John 2:15, 17 says, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world for anyone who loves the world the love of the Father is not in Him." Even the richest, wisest, most accomplished of us all recognized the pain of pleasure. It resulted in emptiness.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri Feb 6
Verses- Eccl 2:24-25 A man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?”
The Promise of Pleasure
The world tells us, "if it feels good, do it" We sometimes dream if only I could just earn enough money to fulfill our dreams then we would have pleasure." Solomon would say, "Don't go to the trouble." When you wake up achieving your dream there is a hunger for more, and more, but never does it satisfy. In time you will lose the important things that once were around you. The things you cannot lose bring happiness.
What is the Christian suppose to do in this world? Ought he then to deny himself of any worldly pleasures? The Amish have a very strict definition of what is worldly and pleasurable. They are against any color other than black, or grey or white. No jewelry, no fine hats. It is considered worldliness to own and operate cars, tractors, to have electricity, or church buildings. What is worldly? There are groups that look at any pleasure as of the devil. Is it the pursuit of card-playing, dancing, movies, drinking and smoking? Is it mini-skirts, pant suits for women, lip stick, colored clothes. Is it having a second house, or latest style of automobile?
No, For you see Solomon keeps using a phrase in this book, "under heaven" or "under the sun". This king was looking under the heavens to find happiness without God. The secret is found also in a little but perplexing phrase in the New Testament. Heb. 12:2 "Jesus endured the cross for the joy that was set before Him." How can one talk about the cross and joy in the same sentence? Yet the ground of a Christian Hedonist is the fact that God is uppermost in his own affections. The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. The greater relationship that gives us pleasure is found in our relationship with God himself. This does not reduce God to key that unlocks the treasure of gold, silver and cheap thrills, but rather it changes our hearts so God will be our joy.
John Piper says in his book, Desiring God, “When the problem is we seek pleasure by shooting too low instead of higher. We do not believe Jesus when he says there is more blessedness, more joy, more lasting pleasure in life devoted to God firs and then helping others than there is in a life devoted to our material comfort. A life devoted to material comforts and thrills is like throwing money down a rat hole. But a life invested in the labor of love yields dividends of joy unsurpassed and unending."
Solomon discovers that pleasure is obtained in the presence of God. vs. 24-26. So often other fleeting pleasures push God out of the picture and these things may not be wrong in and of themselves, but when we spend more time with these things and less time with God we become unfulfilled. Christian pleasure does not mean that God is a means to help us get worldly pleasure, as some people preach, but pleasure is in God Himself. "The Almighty will be your gold and silver to you. (Job 22:25)
In the academy award winning movie, Chariots of Fire, Erick Liddel raced in the Olympics. As a committed Christian he believed God made him fast. He said that he felt the presence of God in his running and for him it was joy. He committed that skill as a means not to beat others but by his running he might honor God. When the Olympic race came on the Sabbath, Eric Liddel was willing to give up the crown for His Sabbath was devoted to God. He would serve the King of Kings rather than the King of Britain. His pleasure was in running, for in it he felt God's power. He became a missionary to china. Worldliness therefore is life that is not under the Lordship of Jesus It is an attitude of one’s heart. Not in what we do but why we do it.
Discover the joy of our creation that saw all that He had made and said it was good, it was very good.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Mon Feb 2
Theme Pleasure's Pursuits
Eccl 2:1
1 I thought in my heart, "Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good." But that also proved to be meaningless.
Pondering Pleasure
Peanuts: Lucy:"Do you think life has any meaning?”
Charlie Brown: "I I...”
Lucy: "I mean, do you think life has any meaning after you failed 9 spelling tests in a row and your teacher hates you?"
Charlie "That's a different question."
Solomon was also asking "what is the meaning of life? What's it all about?" The wisest man was so caught up in his own pursuits that his relationship with God became strained. Finally, judgment fell verbally on Solomon and his family. It was like failing 9 exams and having his teacher is mad at him. Then does life have meaning? That is a different question and Solomon answers, "No".
What gives us pleasure? Do you feel like you are missing out whereas others are enjoying life? What if you had enough money that you didn’t need to deny yourself of anything you wanted to do. That was Solomon’s situation.
I remember thinking as a teen "This is suppose to be the most exciting time of my whole life and adults look back and say you're only young once." Then I'd look at my life and ask, "Am I really enjoying all of life to the fullest?" I was a virgin and I wonder what it would be like to have sexual intercourse. So many other kids were doing it? I wondered about drinking and partying, and smoking, and going to places that my folks would never allow. So many other kids were saying it's really a blast. I'd wonder if the other world, the world of the non Christian was really having fun.
Oh, I enjoyed some of the things that our church and church youth group was doing, but I had to admit some of it was really boring. I enjoyed church, but I also didn't want to go sometimes, but went anyway. I wondered, what if got through my teenage and college years and then discovered that I really did miss out on the good times. Would it then be too late? Youth are no different today.
But these thoughts are not limited to young people. Men in middle age wonder if there is more to life than being tied to family responsibilities. Many are lured into the gambling casinos for the promise of a better life than they have now. Pornography promises thrills to the sexually hungry. More games are being offered than ever before. Pleasure spending has increased almost 20% in the past 10 years. Americans are among the few cultures than really work at their play and too often play at their work.
I can assure you, however, there was not one that could match the pleasure seeking of king Solomon. No American can hold a candle to this pleasure seeker. In Solomon's Sermon he discusses pleasure from different perspectives.
What gives you pleasure now in your stage of life? What do you think you might be missing out on? These are the questions for our thoughts this week.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Tues Feb 3
Verse Eccl 2:2-10 "Laughter," I said, "is foolish. And what does pleasure accomplish?"
3 I tried cheering myself with wine, and embracing folly-- my mind still guiding me with wisdom. I wanted to see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives.
10 I denied myself nothing my eyes desired; I refused my heart no pleasure. My heart took delight in all my work, and this was the reward for all my labor.(NIV)
The Pursuit of Pleasure
Solomon pursued pleasure as a means to happiness. He denied himself nothing that he saw and wanted.
Pleasure is seen by many when there is lots of laughter and having a good time with friends. I think people should laugh more. I typically enjoy comedies, and telling of jokes. Some of Lawrence Olson’s family was concerned that we weren’t good for each other when we got together because we exchanged too many bad jokes. Even though people might groan when Vernon Christensen starts telling another one of his famous jokes, we delight in them for they bring laughter.
Christians on TV or in the movies have been portrayed as stern, sober, and judgmental. That isn’t the picture of pleasure. There are so many somber and sad looking faces. Charles Swindoll says laughter is tremendous medicine and it can be spiritual as well. Humor is a way to bring balance and sanity in life.
I know and admire a very good Bible teacher and preacher that feels very strongly that there is no place for humor in the pulpit. “The Gospel is serious business” he says. “We need to ask serious questions. Some don't take seriously the message of God.”
What does it mean to be created for God’s pleasure and purpose? We find our pleasure not only in Him but in His blessings. Eden was put there for more reasons than food for humans. They delighted in all of creation.
Solomon also sought to make himself merry with wine. Notice how much wine and booze always play such an important part people seeking pleasure. Many drug addicts start with parties where dope is shared for the purpose of having a good time. Drinking helps people forget their troubles for awhile. When someone is giddy, or finds everything funny, people assume they have been drinking.
Solomon also said he embraced folly or frivolity. Acting silly and doing foolish things can be done with those seeking pleasure. I see how some people dress up for football games, or silliness shown at costume parties. Practical jokes played on one another just for the fun of it, brings out diversion from routine, but the king said, “my mind still guided me with wisdom. I wanted to see what was worthwhile for men to do under heaven during the few days of their lives." I think he is saying, I drank to cheer up, but not to the point of losing my sense. I didn't go overboard or get stone drunk, or spend all my time acting foolish. He sought wine, women and song. That is the philosophy of the hedonist.
One of the most popular TV shows was CHEERS. The message of the program was pleasure is found when you drink a lot and pursuit sex. Watch the popular comedies today and see how much sin is the focus for a good time. There is a pleasure that leads to addictions. There are events that become cover ups to the emptiness inside.
We can see the type of parties Solomon had if you read I Kings 4:20-23. That party would have to feed 30,000 to 40,000 people. Like all the inaugural balls the kingdom was partying. But like our new president, King Solomon realized the next day the party was over. Now what?
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Weds Feb 4
Verses- Eccl 2:4 I undertook great projects: I built houses for myself and planted vineyards.
5 I made gardens and parks and planted all kinds of fruit trees in them.
6 I made reservoirs to water groves of flourishing trees.
7 I bought male and female slaves and had other slaves who were born in my house. I also owned more herds and flocks than anyone in Jerusalem before me.
8 I amassed silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and provinces. I acquired men and women singers, and a harem as well-- the delights of the heart of man.
9 I became greater by far than anyone in Jerusalem before me. In all this my wisdom stayed with me.
The Pleasure of Possessions.
We will discuss possessions and finances again but as an part of his introduction to his sermon the King reveals he sought pleasure in possessions and building projects. Many think happiness is in nicer homes and beautiful lawns and spacious estates. People will drive all around Hollywood to see the actors' homes. Folks like to travel in the richest areas of the suburbs just to look at mansions and homes that are picture perfect. I would take friends down Grand Avenue to show off how the other side lived. Going to Europe people are still fascinated with the ornate castles and cathedrals.
Solomon had projects, elaborate homes, acres of vineyards, celebrations with parades. He had manicured parks including fruit trees and reservoirs to water groves of flourishing trees. There were excavations of his barns for the horses, courtyards, and 3 large reservoirs were discovered. His pools were between the size of a football field and another twice the size. With all these things he still failed to find inner peace. He knows what it was to build the most lavish of houses, which took 13 years to build. Even without the modern conveniences his was greater than the homes of the rich and famous. Many dream of the joys of pleasure through homes by the lake, and homes to get away in the winter. Nothing wrong with these, but then come taxes, work, responsibilities and the dreams are always better than the reality.
In addition to his homes, Solomon also got into collecting jewels and articles of silver and gold. He also had his own home entertainment center by brining in live music with singers, bands, and entertainers, He wrote over 1000 songs and got choirs to do some of his own compositions. He was a man of the arts.
Eccl. 10:19 "A feast is made for laughter, and wine makes life merry, but money is the answer for everything."
Then there were the pleasures of women. Solomon wrote about love in the Song of Solomon and the pleasures of sexual relationship with his wife whom he loves. We don't have many sermons from the book of Song of Solomon but its there and it is expressing the joy of love. When a man has 1,000 wives he should know about that area of life. The women and concubines could fulfill any sensual and sexual desires he had. Yet his boredom was so great it could not be described. He ran out of words to say it, other than futility.
I think one of the saddest verses in the Bible is Matt 16:26 “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?”(NIV)
What is your dream that you long to possess? Is it God’s will? Have you prayed about it? Do you think that will finally bring happiness?
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Thurs Feb 5
Verses- Eccl 2:1
1 I thought in my heart, "Come now, I will test you with pleasure to find out what is good." But that also proved to be meaningless.
The Pain of Pleasure.
Of course few people do not discover the pain of pleasure until later. How many times have people warned others of drug and alcoholic abuse, only to find it falls on deaf ears? How often have people shared the pain of premarital sex and living situations only to see young and old continuing to face sexual disease and heartache? It is hard to take the testimony of others. But sometimes a few listen.
A lot of people seek pleasure as an escape from the void of the real need in their life. Many are afraid of stopping their busy pursuit because then they might hear the voice of God to speak to them. When Solomon stopped the merry-go-round of pleasure he felt empty and unfulfilled. He discovered the hard way the effects of sin and the futility of pleasure. Solomon had a limitless supply of money and no sense of accountability. When it was all said and done, he concluded "What an empty, futile trip."People that seek meaning in pleasures find that the time is just postponed until they must deal with life's reality. There is a price to be paid.
Solomon can save us years of heartache if we will only heed what he says. This comes from the wisest and richest man who ever lived and he is telling us truth about illicit sex, about alcohol, about drugs, about the occult, and all the things that appeal to our erotic desires. Physical pleasures do not last long.
A pleasure seeking culture will also fall in time. The Roman civilization began with high moral standards, and sanctity of home and passion for justice and honesty. But the empire fell into debauchery and decline. Their extravagant prosperity moved their morality to immorality. Their pleasures of games turned into more violent and sexual games that cost people their lives. Their entertainment became pleasures with sadistic behavior as they watched other human beings inflict punishment, suffering and death in the coliseums. Rome fell into ruins. But it had really fallen long earlier.
Solomon wrote a few chapters later, "Laughter is like the cracking if burning thorns (7:6) they blaze forth with great promise but last only a moment, giving off little heat and leaving nothing but ashes." Solomon discovered the snare of pleasure promises far more than it produces. It may be satisfying only during the time, but it leaves us thirsty for the next and unsatisfied afterwards.
One man in despair went to see a psychologist who listening to his account of unhappiness. He encouraged the man to visit the show of an Italian comedian in town. It would bring him laughter again. The man responded "I am that comedian." Prov 14:13 "Even in laughter the heart may ache, and joy may end in grief." There are many who play the clown on the outside while inside life is miserable and full of tears.
The pain of pleasure is millions of lives and broken marriages and children becoming victims of increasing divorce with the new sexual freedoms and license for pleasure. The joy of sex entices some into the joy of getting away from it all. The pain of paying for it is AIDS, broken relationships, abortions, unwanted pregnancies are causes our society to ask what is a family today?
Our society today is in economic chaos as the search for the pleasurable life now and the opulent lifestyle proves empty. Peace is not found in more money, larger houses, and wild parties. Pain is felt and many are hurt in the process when pleasure becomes our god.
I John 2:15, 17 says, "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world for anyone who loves the world the love of the Father is not in Him." Even the richest, wisest, most accomplished of us all recognized the pain of pleasure. It resulted in emptiness.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri Feb 6
Verses- Eccl 2:24-25 A man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?”
The Promise of Pleasure
The world tells us, "if it feels good, do it" We sometimes dream if only I could just earn enough money to fulfill our dreams then we would have pleasure." Solomon would say, "Don't go to the trouble." When you wake up achieving your dream there is a hunger for more, and more, but never does it satisfy. In time you will lose the important things that once were around you. The things you cannot lose bring happiness.
What is the Christian suppose to do in this world? Ought he then to deny himself of any worldly pleasures? The Amish have a very strict definition of what is worldly and pleasurable. They are against any color other than black, or grey or white. No jewelry, no fine hats. It is considered worldliness to own and operate cars, tractors, to have electricity, or church buildings. What is worldly? There are groups that look at any pleasure as of the devil. Is it the pursuit of card-playing, dancing, movies, drinking and smoking? Is it mini-skirts, pant suits for women, lip stick, colored clothes. Is it having a second house, or latest style of automobile?
No, For you see Solomon keeps using a phrase in this book, "under heaven" or "under the sun". This king was looking under the heavens to find happiness without God. The secret is found also in a little but perplexing phrase in the New Testament. Heb. 12:2 "Jesus endured the cross for the joy that was set before Him." How can one talk about the cross and joy in the same sentence? Yet the ground of a Christian Hedonist is the fact that God is uppermost in his own affections. The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him forever. The greater relationship that gives us pleasure is found in our relationship with God himself. This does not reduce God to key that unlocks the treasure of gold, silver and cheap thrills, but rather it changes our hearts so God will be our joy.
John Piper says in his book, Desiring God, “When the problem is we seek pleasure by shooting too low instead of higher. We do not believe Jesus when he says there is more blessedness, more joy, more lasting pleasure in life devoted to God firs and then helping others than there is in a life devoted to our material comfort. A life devoted to material comforts and thrills is like throwing money down a rat hole. But a life invested in the labor of love yields dividends of joy unsurpassed and unending."
Solomon discovers that pleasure is obtained in the presence of God. vs. 24-26. So often other fleeting pleasures push God out of the picture and these things may not be wrong in and of themselves, but when we spend more time with these things and less time with God we become unfulfilled. Christian pleasure does not mean that God is a means to help us get worldly pleasure, as some people preach, but pleasure is in God Himself. "The Almighty will be your gold and silver to you. (Job 22:25)
In the academy award winning movie, Chariots of Fire, Erick Liddel raced in the Olympics. As a committed Christian he believed God made him fast. He said that he felt the presence of God in his running and for him it was joy. He committed that skill as a means not to beat others but by his running he might honor God. When the Olympic race came on the Sabbath, Eric Liddel was willing to give up the crown for His Sabbath was devoted to God. He would serve the King of Kings rather than the King of Britain. His pleasure was in running, for in it he felt God's power. He became a missionary to china. Worldliness therefore is life that is not under the Lordship of Jesus It is an attitude of one’s heart. Not in what we do but why we do it.
Discover the joy of our creation that saw all that He had made and said it was good, it was very good.
Pastor Dale
Friday, January 30, 2009
Education- Eccl. 1:12-18; 2:12-16
(If you wish to receive the daily devotional by email contact me pastordale@stanchfieldbaptist.com)
Sermon Nuggets Week of Jan 26 Ecc.1:12-18 & 2:12-16
Sermon Nuggets Mon Jan 26
Theme: SCHOOL TIME BLUES
Verses- Eccl 1:13 I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men!
The Formulation of Wisdom
Solomon was given the gift of wisdom. He wanted to explain its importance. During his mid years when many of the Proverbs were compiled he wanted to pass on many significant lessons. He began his writings this way-
Prov 1:1-7 “The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young- let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance- for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."
One begins to learn from the King there is a difference between getting knowledge and applying knowledge. All societies see the importance of an education. The higher the literacy the rate the stronger the society as it is better able to communicate and evaluate things that are important in life. Wise people love to learn. The more study and searching and reading and learning one has they more than can apply wisdom. But wisdom and education are not the same thing.
How do you look at education? For many it is being under lock and chain - some kids can't wait to get out from school. For some in high school or college there is the excitement to advance their education or vocational aspirations. For others it is a chance to get into the real world and get a job and earn money, so they can live independently. For many education is an avenue to achieve a goal, for others it is the processes of developing understanding of life. For some it is the road to a higher standard of living and having more options later in life from which to choose. Many illiterate and uneducated populations are barely etching out an existence while cultured society with high literacy and technology, experience a higher standard of living.
If we believe that God is the God of truth, all truth is from God. We then can be excited about find our more of his creation and how it works. It is to his glory we understand and discover truth.
One of the saddest periods of time in our history was what is called the Dark Ages when for centuries the Roman catholic church stopped the masses from individual learning. The church began to dictate truth and eliminate the pursuit of discovery. Like many dictatorships they believed in they controlled what people learned they would maintain power. When the some scientist discovered the earth was round and the planets, including the earth, rotated around the sun, some priests could not comprehend that God would do that, so the church made Galileo recant his findings. Copernicus’ writings were burned as heretical.
Scientists and clergymen may conflict a lot, but Scripture has not been proven wrong, only interpretations of it. The more we discover our grandeur of all that is in this universe and the more we grow in our faith in God the greater do we worship and glorify the wisdom of God who created all of this. If only the secularists would get over their willful biases to explain our creator away!
As we discussed last week Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes later in life when he was living out of fellowship and under the judgment of God. From that time on, life took on a heaviness that was not apparent when he was walking with the Lord. As he looks at life he finds earthly pursuits without the Lord is vain and empty soap bubbles. Here and gone.
We gain wisdom from the time we are babies and pick up what we watch and hear from our parents. Many things in our society add to our learning for good or for ill. Television, music, siblings, friends, schools, churches, books, and probably more than anything, the experiences of life add to that wisdom. That is perhaps why Solomon in pursuit of wisdom wants to experience all that life has to offer and evaluates that search in different ways.
What are lessons that you have learned that are not taught in any school? What does God want to teach you or remind you today?
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues Jan 27
Verses Eccl 1:12-13 I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men!
Follow Wisdom.
Solomon wanted wisdom more than anything else. But when one is divinely gifted that begins the search, not ends the matter. One begins to learn and follows where interests, need, and study leads. He prayed that God would give him wisdom to do what is right. Having been granted wisdom to know right from wrong it was an ongoing daily task to choose right. After knowing the path to follow courage was needed to follow that path.
He diligently applied his heart to wisdom; he observed all things. At the beginning of his studies he came up with keen scientific discoveries, organizational principles, psychology, philosophy, politics, as well as sociology. Others came to learn under the teaching of this master. I Kings 4:33 "He spoke 3,000 proverbs and his songs numbered 1,005 He described plant life, from the cedar of Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of walls. He also taught about animals and birds, reptiles and fish. Men of all nations came to listen to Solomon's wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom."
I used to have a sign up in my study read, "If you think education is expensive then you ought to try ignorance." More than anything Solomon asked for wisdom. It still has its value. James tells us if you lack wisdom ask of God who gives it liberally. People anywhere and everywhere should never fear truth. There have been Christians who have been afraid of too much education for fear that they or others will lose their faith. Some fear that some discoveries will prove the Bible wrong and therefore don't want to ask the important questions truth.
The history of Bethel Seminary started with a great deal of controversy. Many of the early Swedish Baptists felt the problem with many pastors was they had too much education and not enough faith. There was more reliance on the books of study than the Holy Spirit. There was suspicion of educated men on the part of many parishioners because now they don't speak the same language and weren't on the same communication level. Some with education looked down on those who didn't have it. There were also many people who did go on to school for further education. Many who went on to college had become skeptics. Because students are taught to question many doubted what they were taught when it came to matters of faith.
Light is better than darkness, to know is much better than not.
Solomon not only learned through the books but more importantly with the observation and the experience of life and the things that are around them. The word in Hebrew means to investigate the roots of a matter- sort of like a doctoral candidate does when he works on a thesis or dissertation. They go to library and now the internet and research what has been done and what hasn’t been written on the topics yet.
Socrates has been called the father of ancient philosophy. Philosophy means the love of wisdom. He began the searching for wisdom He had an inquiring mind and went to the oracle of Delphia and asked who was the wisest of all Greeks from whom he would learn. The answer dumb founded him, :"You are" He thought, "Now surely I do not know anything I must learn from others. Socrates went to search the wise teachers, and asked question. What he discovered was they didn't really know anything. They thought they did, but there was nothing to their wisdom. Finally it hit him. "I know one thing. That is this. I know I don't know anything. That is one thing more than all these other people know. Therefore I am the wisest. I at least know that.”
The father of ancient philosophy dialogued with students encouraging and questioning. Modeling that principle learners do not want to just take answers from other people but pursue and seek wisdom for themselves.
When it comes to discovering God it isn’t the faith of our parents, or pastors or Sunday school teachers which holds us strong. It is the personal discovery of a living and loving Lord. We need to believe because we have discovered Jesus to be Lord of all. Moses told the people to meditate on God’s word day and night. Paul tells Timothy “study to show thyself approved unto God.” Paul was used mightily of God as one of the best educated of all the apostles. Knowledge gives us mastery of certain facts; wisdom gives us the ability to use those facts with skill. Wisdom gives us understanding and good judgment. There is advice to get all the education you can. Never stop learning, when we stop learning we stop growing. When one stops learning, one stops growing. The first rule of education according to the wisest man was to follow wisdom.
What are you doing presently to stretch your mind and gain understanding? Solomon learned a lot, but discovered the true source of all wisdom.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds Jan 28
Verses- Eccl 1:14-18 I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
15 What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted.
16 I thought to myself, "Look, I have grown and increased in wisdom more than anyone who has ruled over Jerusalem before me; I have experienced much of wisdom and knowledge."
17 Then I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind.
18 For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief.
Folly of Wisdom
How can Solomon sound so positive in the book of Proverbs and negative in this writing? Solomon realizes that everything cannot be put into nice little pat answers and there are warnings that he must give.
What did Solomon do with all his wisdom? He became in his later years a wise fool. Do you know what that is, a sophomore. “Soph” mean wise, or wisdom. "More", is from moran, a fool or a buffoon. Sophomore is a wise fool. It used to be of sophomores that just because you have some wisdom, don't think you know it all. We need the understanding of Socrates. The most important thing to know is how little we really do know. Yes, Solomon was King, but he had to learn that God was sovereign. When one breaks God's laws God breaks him and all his wisdom was dust and chasing after the wind when he was living out of fellowship with the Lord.
The Bible talks about wise fools. Romans 1:21,22 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened, Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools."
The subtle thinking by many in the secular world portrayed as experts affect their students conscious and unconsciously by people who ignore God. Many young people are faced strongly with a model of humanistic teaching. That has man as the center of wisdom.
If higher education as an end of itself brings fulfillment, what do we find on campuses around the country? Satisfied happy people? No, Suicide rate are highest among students because of the pressure to achieve and succeed the realization of competition is overwhelming. They are boiling pots of controversy, political activism, all kinds of subjective ideas and philosophies prove to be empty. The answer of life isn't just studying more. Secular educators and intellectuals rarely are happy and satisfied people.
As people are taught to question and doubt it is natural many will reevaluate their own faith and teachings of their parents. You need your own personal faith. The faith of your church, your pastors, your leaders, and your parents can help a little, but each person must have an individual relationship with Jesus Christ.
Where is truth in a relativistic and pluralistic society? The scientific principles that were facts when I was in school are not longer facts today. They are shown to be false in many conclusions. Medical science makes new discoveries only to say “Whoops” a bit later that the things that were suppose to be bad for you are now good and vice versa.
I watched an episode on public TV awhile ago called Ancient Secrets of the Bible. Scholars were presenting how certain events in the Bible are pure fable, impossible, and folk religion not based on any solid evidence. The program continued to show how indeed archeology, new discoveries and recent finds confirm scientifically the validity of some of these stories which were challenged.
When I was younger I also heard similar arguments and had my doubts about the Bible when important authorities show contradictions. I decided to go beyond those sources and look up some data myself. To my surprise I realize like Solomon, there is nothing new under the sun. People for years have debunked some historical events in the Bible to be surprised that archeology uncovered some evidence of the very things they said could not happen. Sometime it was a person or ruler by the same name in a different time period. Instead of showing inconsistencies they raise up “yes, but” arguments. They move from what they found to be false conclusions and start attacking the next thing on their list. It doesn’t end when the goal of secularists are to replace God.
Like Billy Graham I came to a place in my life where by faith I accepted the Bible as being the Word of God and realized the writings of 1000s of years last. The last new discoveries come and go. I am not saying they don’t have a place, or help us better understand time and culture, but the validity of truth brings us to a God who is above all and over all.
The folly of wisdom is to place mankind on the throne of authority and discover our insights and pride have taken over the arena where God has resided and continues to dwell.
Although there are many skeptics, still the Bible holds true. Who do you believe -the professor who says one thing, or the book that has been vindicated in ancient records throughout the centuries? When education leads you in a path different from the truths of the Bible it is folly.
Education has made great strides in space technology, nuclear research, the archeology and geologists have discovered truth. Much of the advancement with computers will affect the lives of us all. Yet no peace, only weapon of distrust and economic tools of manipulation to control other nations. Billions of dollars are spent on researching the problems of human behavior but violent crimes continue to increase and; mental disorders more prevalent than before. Education is failing, it is not the ultimate answer.
As one man said, "Get some education, so people won't look down on you, and then get some more, so you won't look down on others." Some set themselves up as authorities treading upon students and other people treating them with little respect or appreciation. They know the answers to some questions. But unlike Socrates, instead of the humble spirit of realizing how much there is to know and be known, we are fools to replace the source of all wisdom. The more we learn the more we are open to truth of God and more aware we're not so smart after all.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Thurs Jan 29
Verses- Eccl 2:12-16 Then I turned my thoughts to consider wisdom, and also madness and folly. What more can the king's successor do than what has already been done?
13 I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness.
14 The wise man has eyes in his head, while the fool walks in the darkness; but I came to realize that the same fate overtakes them both.
15 Then I thought in my heart, "The fate of the fool will overtake me also. What then do I gain by being wise?" I said in my heart, "This too is meaningless."
16 For the wise man, like the fool, will not be long remembered; in days to come both will be forgotten. Like the fool, the wise man too must die!
Futility in Wisdom
I hope I never stop learning. Many of my friends and classmates have received their doctorate degree. Those who are not teaching thought it would be an advancement to larger and higher paying churches. Many of those friends are no longer in the pastorate. That is a complication now for some for whom their doctorate is almost a hindrance to a job. Some stopped learning after they reached their goal. Others find study rewarding when it has a personal purpose. I look at my stack of books with the amazing awareness that few people want them or care when I’m gone. Most of what I read and studied has not been worth passing on. It seemed like a waste of time. There is no lack of making of books but for what reason?
The futility of wisdom is after you have pursued it, learned, and feasted on knowledge that's all you have. It doesn't really give you a sense of satisfaction for you never have arrived. There is always more you don't know. There are further things you don't understand and you live your whole life gaining education but what good is it if your heart is not right?
I am troubled when we in our church or Sunday school try to influence the teaching of the word of God and compare that with the daily instruction in and outside of school. If people were very faithful to Sunday School that is 40 minutes a week after attendance, songs, and acknowledging birthdays. If you consider children church or a sermon that would be 30 minutes or 56 hours of Bible teaching or preaching a year. That works out to 2 1/2 weeks of the equivalent of school and that it for the year. What if our educational system close up the books and sent kids home after 2 ½ weeks? Any teacher in the public school would protest and say there is no way we can begin to teach our children the fundamentals of math in that time, or English, or science, or social studies. They would refuse to teach. Yet that is what we have with volunteer teachers. Then folks expect the church to provide all the religious education that many will ever receive in their lives. Then recognize that the place of Sunday school and church has also changed in influence of our society. Everything in our society comes before and ahead of Bible teaching. IF there is an activity in school or community those get priority over any religious instruction. The fact that we are able to accomplish Biblical teach at all isn't to our credit but only to the Holy Spirit.
As we look at 2:12-16 Solomon's argument is that the pursuit of secular wisdom is futile when you this is all you have, for all your degrees and accomplishments will be buried with you in the grave, then what? All the wisdom in the world is not going to prepare you to die. You need the wisdom of the next world.
Three conclusions are raised. 1. Death does not recognize the excellence of wisdom- both the educated, and the unlearned go to the grave and there is the equalizer of us all. The grave is something we all face. 2. Death does not recognize the desire of wisdom. All the motivation whether noble or not makes not difference at the time of death. When your motivation on this earth is to learn and even spread that learning when you die it's over. You are personally no better off than the guy that learns nothing after your dead. 3. Death does not remember the work of wisdom. People forget. Personal recognition will name and honor people very few like Socrates, Aristotle, Einstein, Universities will name halls sometimes after founders of educational institutions and presidents, but what good is that after you're dead. This in and of itself seems futile.
Solomon devoted his whole life to wisdom and learning. But something was missing. All the certificates on his wall didn’t seem to give him fulfillment.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Fri Jan 30
Verses- Eccl 2: 13 I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness.
Prov 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Fulfillment in Wisdom
Wisdom is important. The pursue of truth is far superior to wallowing around in ignorance, superstition and prejudice. But real truth and wisdom only stems from God. Solomon knew that at the beginning when he said, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Follow that all your life, but he didn't follow his own advice.
Judi and I were listening to a tape of a pastor who was preaching the truth of God in a most powerful way. Yet he himself was blinded to the temptations of sin and is out of the minister today for moral reasons. Why? Because even though people walk with the Lord for awhile and commit their hearts to him, it is a continual reminder that we need to daily and regularly trust in Him. We needed to be reminded the only way wisdom has fulfillment of enjoyment is when God is in it.
Friends, we can't be so smart and eternally lost. Matt 12:42. “The queen of South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom and now one greater than Solomon is here."
Jesus said, John 14:16 "I will ask the Father and he will give you another counselor to be with you forever the spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him, but you know him for he lives with you and will be in you. ..But the counselor, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."
When we remove Jesus Christ from the center of an intellectual pursuit we're headed for ultimate disaster. Solomon discovers the only way to find satisfaction and relief from boredom is through relationship with the living God. Apart from Him we have school time blues.
Jesus came to show us the Father. After we accepted Christ there is implanted in our hearts a new wisdom from God. It is spiritual wisdom not of this world. He is wise who knows the source of knowledge that source is God. (see I Cor 1:18-25)
I am amazed that even when I went to school the principles taught were considered truth are now obsolete. The way churches function when I went to seminary are not the way churches function today. Cultures change considerable in time. But that which is lasting over 2,000 years and still changed people will never be obsolete. Even Paul with all his degrees and zeal and knowledge under the best religious teacher was blinded on the road by a supernatural vision of Jesus who asked, "Saul , Saul, why do you persecute me?" A couple days later when Ananias told him of the cross, and his need for repentance it was the humble, child-like faith in Jesus that opened his life to real wisdom. "Jesus said, except you come as these little children you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Salvation is not complicated. We do not have to spend years studying. A little child old enough to understand right from wrong can accept Jesus. I will trust Him with what I know and what I do not know.
We may have had an excellent education, a sparkling success, and have a world of pleasure without really being happy or satisfied, because God has built into us a vacuum which only He can fill. Our deepest ongoing cannot be met by earthly things that pass away. We need God and the only way to come to Him is through faith.
Ruth Graham tells the story of a small bootblack polishing shoes enthusiastically. One fellow that came to him once a week had three earned PhDs. One day, feeling unhappy, the scholar looked at the bootblack working so cheerfully and enthusiastically on his shoes and thought of his own misery. “Why are you so happy?”
He looked and said simply, "Jesus. He loves me. He died so God could forgive all my badness. He makes me happy." Quickly the doctor snapped up the newspaper over his face but the brilliant professor could not escape those simple works and that was what eventually brought the professor faith in Christ. The man was Alexander Grigolia, Professor of anthropology, who was Dr. Billy Graham's beloved and influential professor in college. I wasn't education that mattered; it was Jesus Christ that made the difference. Jesus gave his education a new meaning and renewed love in his learning.
That is the fulfillment of wisdom.
Pastor Dale
Original poem by my father, Harold M. Cope
Often Wondered
Often wondered why us kids just have to go to school
And read and write and spell a spell, and learn the golden rule.
Often wondered too just why some kids are teachers pets
And why she picks on me the most, just every chance she gets.
Wondered too, just why my card has all the Fs and D's
While little homer always gets those higher A's and B's
Just ain't no future anyhow so far as I can see.
A sittin and a learning, while elders go scott free.
Sermon Nuggets Week of Jan 26 Ecc.1:12-18 & 2:12-16
Sermon Nuggets Mon Jan 26
Theme: SCHOOL TIME BLUES
Verses- Eccl 1:13 I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men!
The Formulation of Wisdom
Solomon was given the gift of wisdom. He wanted to explain its importance. During his mid years when many of the Proverbs were compiled he wanted to pass on many significant lessons. He began his writings this way-
Prov 1:1-7 “The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young- let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance- for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."
One begins to learn from the King there is a difference between getting knowledge and applying knowledge. All societies see the importance of an education. The higher the literacy the rate the stronger the society as it is better able to communicate and evaluate things that are important in life. Wise people love to learn. The more study and searching and reading and learning one has they more than can apply wisdom. But wisdom and education are not the same thing.
How do you look at education? For many it is being under lock and chain - some kids can't wait to get out from school. For some in high school or college there is the excitement to advance their education or vocational aspirations. For others it is a chance to get into the real world and get a job and earn money, so they can live independently. For many education is an avenue to achieve a goal, for others it is the processes of developing understanding of life. For some it is the road to a higher standard of living and having more options later in life from which to choose. Many illiterate and uneducated populations are barely etching out an existence while cultured society with high literacy and technology, experience a higher standard of living.
If we believe that God is the God of truth, all truth is from God. We then can be excited about find our more of his creation and how it works. It is to his glory we understand and discover truth.
One of the saddest periods of time in our history was what is called the Dark Ages when for centuries the Roman catholic church stopped the masses from individual learning. The church began to dictate truth and eliminate the pursuit of discovery. Like many dictatorships they believed in they controlled what people learned they would maintain power. When the some scientist discovered the earth was round and the planets, including the earth, rotated around the sun, some priests could not comprehend that God would do that, so the church made Galileo recant his findings. Copernicus’ writings were burned as heretical.
Scientists and clergymen may conflict a lot, but Scripture has not been proven wrong, only interpretations of it. The more we discover our grandeur of all that is in this universe and the more we grow in our faith in God the greater do we worship and glorify the wisdom of God who created all of this. If only the secularists would get over their willful biases to explain our creator away!
As we discussed last week Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes later in life when he was living out of fellowship and under the judgment of God. From that time on, life took on a heaviness that was not apparent when he was walking with the Lord. As he looks at life he finds earthly pursuits without the Lord is vain and empty soap bubbles. Here and gone.
We gain wisdom from the time we are babies and pick up what we watch and hear from our parents. Many things in our society add to our learning for good or for ill. Television, music, siblings, friends, schools, churches, books, and probably more than anything, the experiences of life add to that wisdom. That is perhaps why Solomon in pursuit of wisdom wants to experience all that life has to offer and evaluates that search in different ways.
What are lessons that you have learned that are not taught in any school? What does God want to teach you or remind you today?
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues Jan 27
Verses Eccl 1:12-13 I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men!
Follow Wisdom.
Solomon wanted wisdom more than anything else. But when one is divinely gifted that begins the search, not ends the matter. One begins to learn and follows where interests, need, and study leads. He prayed that God would give him wisdom to do what is right. Having been granted wisdom to know right from wrong it was an ongoing daily task to choose right. After knowing the path to follow courage was needed to follow that path.
He diligently applied his heart to wisdom; he observed all things. At the beginning of his studies he came up with keen scientific discoveries, organizational principles, psychology, philosophy, politics, as well as sociology. Others came to learn under the teaching of this master. I Kings 4:33 "He spoke 3,000 proverbs and his songs numbered 1,005 He described plant life, from the cedar of Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of walls. He also taught about animals and birds, reptiles and fish. Men of all nations came to listen to Solomon's wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom."
I used to have a sign up in my study read, "If you think education is expensive then you ought to try ignorance." More than anything Solomon asked for wisdom. It still has its value. James tells us if you lack wisdom ask of God who gives it liberally. People anywhere and everywhere should never fear truth. There have been Christians who have been afraid of too much education for fear that they or others will lose their faith. Some fear that some discoveries will prove the Bible wrong and therefore don't want to ask the important questions truth.
The history of Bethel Seminary started with a great deal of controversy. Many of the early Swedish Baptists felt the problem with many pastors was they had too much education and not enough faith. There was more reliance on the books of study than the Holy Spirit. There was suspicion of educated men on the part of many parishioners because now they don't speak the same language and weren't on the same communication level. Some with education looked down on those who didn't have it. There were also many people who did go on to school for further education. Many who went on to college had become skeptics. Because students are taught to question many doubted what they were taught when it came to matters of faith.
Light is better than darkness, to know is much better than not.
Solomon not only learned through the books but more importantly with the observation and the experience of life and the things that are around them. The word in Hebrew means to investigate the roots of a matter- sort of like a doctoral candidate does when he works on a thesis or dissertation. They go to library and now the internet and research what has been done and what hasn’t been written on the topics yet.
Socrates has been called the father of ancient philosophy. Philosophy means the love of wisdom. He began the searching for wisdom He had an inquiring mind and went to the oracle of Delphia and asked who was the wisest of all Greeks from whom he would learn. The answer dumb founded him, :"You are" He thought, "Now surely I do not know anything I must learn from others. Socrates went to search the wise teachers, and asked question. What he discovered was they didn't really know anything. They thought they did, but there was nothing to their wisdom. Finally it hit him. "I know one thing. That is this. I know I don't know anything. That is one thing more than all these other people know. Therefore I am the wisest. I at least know that.”
The father of ancient philosophy dialogued with students encouraging and questioning. Modeling that principle learners do not want to just take answers from other people but pursue and seek wisdom for themselves.
When it comes to discovering God it isn’t the faith of our parents, or pastors or Sunday school teachers which holds us strong. It is the personal discovery of a living and loving Lord. We need to believe because we have discovered Jesus to be Lord of all. Moses told the people to meditate on God’s word day and night. Paul tells Timothy “study to show thyself approved unto God.” Paul was used mightily of God as one of the best educated of all the apostles. Knowledge gives us mastery of certain facts; wisdom gives us the ability to use those facts with skill. Wisdom gives us understanding and good judgment. There is advice to get all the education you can. Never stop learning, when we stop learning we stop growing. When one stops learning, one stops growing. The first rule of education according to the wisest man was to follow wisdom.
What are you doing presently to stretch your mind and gain understanding? Solomon learned a lot, but discovered the true source of all wisdom.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds Jan 28
Verses- Eccl 1:14-18 I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
15 What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted.
16 I thought to myself, "Look, I have grown and increased in wisdom more than anyone who has ruled over Jerusalem before me; I have experienced much of wisdom and knowledge."
17 Then I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind.
18 For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief.
Folly of Wisdom
How can Solomon sound so positive in the book of Proverbs and negative in this writing? Solomon realizes that everything cannot be put into nice little pat answers and there are warnings that he must give.
What did Solomon do with all his wisdom? He became in his later years a wise fool. Do you know what that is, a sophomore. “Soph” mean wise, or wisdom. "More", is from moran, a fool or a buffoon. Sophomore is a wise fool. It used to be of sophomores that just because you have some wisdom, don't think you know it all. We need the understanding of Socrates. The most important thing to know is how little we really do know. Yes, Solomon was King, but he had to learn that God was sovereign. When one breaks God's laws God breaks him and all his wisdom was dust and chasing after the wind when he was living out of fellowship with the Lord.
The Bible talks about wise fools. Romans 1:21,22 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened, Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools."
The subtle thinking by many in the secular world portrayed as experts affect their students conscious and unconsciously by people who ignore God. Many young people are faced strongly with a model of humanistic teaching. That has man as the center of wisdom.
If higher education as an end of itself brings fulfillment, what do we find on campuses around the country? Satisfied happy people? No, Suicide rate are highest among students because of the pressure to achieve and succeed the realization of competition is overwhelming. They are boiling pots of controversy, political activism, all kinds of subjective ideas and philosophies prove to be empty. The answer of life isn't just studying more. Secular educators and intellectuals rarely are happy and satisfied people.
As people are taught to question and doubt it is natural many will reevaluate their own faith and teachings of their parents. You need your own personal faith. The faith of your church, your pastors, your leaders, and your parents can help a little, but each person must have an individual relationship with Jesus Christ.
Where is truth in a relativistic and pluralistic society? The scientific principles that were facts when I was in school are not longer facts today. They are shown to be false in many conclusions. Medical science makes new discoveries only to say “Whoops” a bit later that the things that were suppose to be bad for you are now good and vice versa.
I watched an episode on public TV awhile ago called Ancient Secrets of the Bible. Scholars were presenting how certain events in the Bible are pure fable, impossible, and folk religion not based on any solid evidence. The program continued to show how indeed archeology, new discoveries and recent finds confirm scientifically the validity of some of these stories which were challenged.
When I was younger I also heard similar arguments and had my doubts about the Bible when important authorities show contradictions. I decided to go beyond those sources and look up some data myself. To my surprise I realize like Solomon, there is nothing new under the sun. People for years have debunked some historical events in the Bible to be surprised that archeology uncovered some evidence of the very things they said could not happen. Sometime it was a person or ruler by the same name in a different time period. Instead of showing inconsistencies they raise up “yes, but” arguments. They move from what they found to be false conclusions and start attacking the next thing on their list. It doesn’t end when the goal of secularists are to replace God.
Like Billy Graham I came to a place in my life where by faith I accepted the Bible as being the Word of God and realized the writings of 1000s of years last. The last new discoveries come and go. I am not saying they don’t have a place, or help us better understand time and culture, but the validity of truth brings us to a God who is above all and over all.
The folly of wisdom is to place mankind on the throne of authority and discover our insights and pride have taken over the arena where God has resided and continues to dwell.
Although there are many skeptics, still the Bible holds true. Who do you believe -the professor who says one thing, or the book that has been vindicated in ancient records throughout the centuries? When education leads you in a path different from the truths of the Bible it is folly.
Education has made great strides in space technology, nuclear research, the archeology and geologists have discovered truth. Much of the advancement with computers will affect the lives of us all. Yet no peace, only weapon of distrust and economic tools of manipulation to control other nations. Billions of dollars are spent on researching the problems of human behavior but violent crimes continue to increase and; mental disorders more prevalent than before. Education is failing, it is not the ultimate answer.
As one man said, "Get some education, so people won't look down on you, and then get some more, so you won't look down on others." Some set themselves up as authorities treading upon students and other people treating them with little respect or appreciation. They know the answers to some questions. But unlike Socrates, instead of the humble spirit of realizing how much there is to know and be known, we are fools to replace the source of all wisdom. The more we learn the more we are open to truth of God and more aware we're not so smart after all.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Thurs Jan 29
Verses- Eccl 2:12-16 Then I turned my thoughts to consider wisdom, and also madness and folly. What more can the king's successor do than what has already been done?
13 I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness.
14 The wise man has eyes in his head, while the fool walks in the darkness; but I came to realize that the same fate overtakes them both.
15 Then I thought in my heart, "The fate of the fool will overtake me also. What then do I gain by being wise?" I said in my heart, "This too is meaningless."
16 For the wise man, like the fool, will not be long remembered; in days to come both will be forgotten. Like the fool, the wise man too must die!
Futility in Wisdom
I hope I never stop learning. Many of my friends and classmates have received their doctorate degree. Those who are not teaching thought it would be an advancement to larger and higher paying churches. Many of those friends are no longer in the pastorate. That is a complication now for some for whom their doctorate is almost a hindrance to a job. Some stopped learning after they reached their goal. Others find study rewarding when it has a personal purpose. I look at my stack of books with the amazing awareness that few people want them or care when I’m gone. Most of what I read and studied has not been worth passing on. It seemed like a waste of time. There is no lack of making of books but for what reason?
The futility of wisdom is after you have pursued it, learned, and feasted on knowledge that's all you have. It doesn't really give you a sense of satisfaction for you never have arrived. There is always more you don't know. There are further things you don't understand and you live your whole life gaining education but what good is it if your heart is not right?
I am troubled when we in our church or Sunday school try to influence the teaching of the word of God and compare that with the daily instruction in and outside of school. If people were very faithful to Sunday School that is 40 minutes a week after attendance, songs, and acknowledging birthdays. If you consider children church or a sermon that would be 30 minutes or 56 hours of Bible teaching or preaching a year. That works out to 2 1/2 weeks of the equivalent of school and that it for the year. What if our educational system close up the books and sent kids home after 2 ½ weeks? Any teacher in the public school would protest and say there is no way we can begin to teach our children the fundamentals of math in that time, or English, or science, or social studies. They would refuse to teach. Yet that is what we have with volunteer teachers. Then folks expect the church to provide all the religious education that many will ever receive in their lives. Then recognize that the place of Sunday school and church has also changed in influence of our society. Everything in our society comes before and ahead of Bible teaching. IF there is an activity in school or community those get priority over any religious instruction. The fact that we are able to accomplish Biblical teach at all isn't to our credit but only to the Holy Spirit.
As we look at 2:12-16 Solomon's argument is that the pursuit of secular wisdom is futile when you this is all you have, for all your degrees and accomplishments will be buried with you in the grave, then what? All the wisdom in the world is not going to prepare you to die. You need the wisdom of the next world.
Three conclusions are raised. 1. Death does not recognize the excellence of wisdom- both the educated, and the unlearned go to the grave and there is the equalizer of us all. The grave is something we all face. 2. Death does not recognize the desire of wisdom. All the motivation whether noble or not makes not difference at the time of death. When your motivation on this earth is to learn and even spread that learning when you die it's over. You are personally no better off than the guy that learns nothing after your dead. 3. Death does not remember the work of wisdom. People forget. Personal recognition will name and honor people very few like Socrates, Aristotle, Einstein, Universities will name halls sometimes after founders of educational institutions and presidents, but what good is that after you're dead. This in and of itself seems futile.
Solomon devoted his whole life to wisdom and learning. But something was missing. All the certificates on his wall didn’t seem to give him fulfillment.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Fri Jan 30
Verses- Eccl 2: 13 I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness.
Prov 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Fulfillment in Wisdom
Wisdom is important. The pursue of truth is far superior to wallowing around in ignorance, superstition and prejudice. But real truth and wisdom only stems from God. Solomon knew that at the beginning when he said, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Follow that all your life, but he didn't follow his own advice.
Judi and I were listening to a tape of a pastor who was preaching the truth of God in a most powerful way. Yet he himself was blinded to the temptations of sin and is out of the minister today for moral reasons. Why? Because even though people walk with the Lord for awhile and commit their hearts to him, it is a continual reminder that we need to daily and regularly trust in Him. We needed to be reminded the only way wisdom has fulfillment of enjoyment is when God is in it.
Friends, we can't be so smart and eternally lost. Matt 12:42. “The queen of South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom and now one greater than Solomon is here."
Jesus said, John 14:16 "I will ask the Father and he will give you another counselor to be with you forever the spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him, but you know him for he lives with you and will be in you. ..But the counselor, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."
When we remove Jesus Christ from the center of an intellectual pursuit we're headed for ultimate disaster. Solomon discovers the only way to find satisfaction and relief from boredom is through relationship with the living God. Apart from Him we have school time blues.
Jesus came to show us the Father. After we accepted Christ there is implanted in our hearts a new wisdom from God. It is spiritual wisdom not of this world. He is wise who knows the source of knowledge that source is God. (see I Cor 1:18-25)
I am amazed that even when I went to school the principles taught were considered truth are now obsolete. The way churches function when I went to seminary are not the way churches function today. Cultures change considerable in time. But that which is lasting over 2,000 years and still changed people will never be obsolete. Even Paul with all his degrees and zeal and knowledge under the best religious teacher was blinded on the road by a supernatural vision of Jesus who asked, "Saul , Saul, why do you persecute me?" A couple days later when Ananias told him of the cross, and his need for repentance it was the humble, child-like faith in Jesus that opened his life to real wisdom. "Jesus said, except you come as these little children you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Salvation is not complicated. We do not have to spend years studying. A little child old enough to understand right from wrong can accept Jesus. I will trust Him with what I know and what I do not know.
We may have had an excellent education, a sparkling success, and have a world of pleasure without really being happy or satisfied, because God has built into us a vacuum which only He can fill. Our deepest ongoing cannot be met by earthly things that pass away. We need God and the only way to come to Him is through faith.
Ruth Graham tells the story of a small bootblack polishing shoes enthusiastically. One fellow that came to him once a week had three earned PhDs. One day, feeling unhappy, the scholar looked at the bootblack working so cheerfully and enthusiastically on his shoes and thought of his own misery. “Why are you so happy?”
He looked and said simply, "Jesus. He loves me. He died so God could forgive all my badness. He makes me happy." Quickly the doctor snapped up the newspaper over his face but the brilliant professor could not escape those simple works and that was what eventually brought the professor faith in Christ. The man was Alexander Grigolia, Professor of anthropology, who was Dr. Billy Graham's beloved and influential professor in college. I wasn't education that mattered; it was Jesus Christ that made the difference. Jesus gave his education a new meaning and renewed love in his learning.
That is the fulfillment of wisdom.
Pastor Dale
Original poem by my father, Harold M. Cope
Often Wondered
Often wondered why us kids just have to go to school
And read and write and spell a spell, and learn the golden rule.
Often wondered too just why some kids are teachers pets
And why she picks on me the most, just every chance she gets.
Wondered too, just why my card has all the Fs and D's
While little homer always gets those higher A's and B's
Just ain't no future anyhow so far as I can see.
A sittin and a learning, while elders go scott free.
Sermon Nuggets Week of Jan 26 Ecc.1:12-18 & 2:12-16
Sermon Nuggets Mon Jan 26
Theme: SCHOOL TIME BLUES
Verses- Eccl 1:13 I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men!
The Formulation of Wisdom
Solomon was given the gift of wisdom. He wanted to explain its importance. During his mid years when many of the Proverbs were compiled he wanted to pass on many significant lessons. He began his writings this way-
Prov 1:1-7 “The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young- let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance- for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."
One begins to learn from the King there is a difference between getting knowledge and applying knowledge. All societies see the importance of an education. The higher the literacy the rate the stronger the society as it is better able to communicate and evaluate things that are important in life. Wise people love to learn. The more study and searching and reading and learning one has they more than can apply wisdom. But wisdom and education are not the same thing.
How do you look at education? For many it is being under lock and chain - some kids can't wait to get out from school. For some in high school or college there is the excitement to advance their education or vocational aspirations. For others it is a chance to get into the real world and get a job and earn money, so they can live independently. For many education is an avenue to achieve a goal, for others it is the processes of developing understanding of life. For some it is the road to a higher standard of living and having more options later in life from which to choose. Many illiterate and uneducated populations are barely etching out an existence while cultured society with high literacy and technology, experience a higher standard of living.
If we believe that God is the God of truth, all truth is from God. We then can be excited about find our more of his creation and how it works. It is to his glory we understand and discover truth.
One of the saddest periods of time in our history was what is called the Dark Ages when for centuries the Roman catholic church stopped the masses from individual learning. The church began to dictate truth and eliminate the pursuit of discovery. Like many dictatorships they believed in they controlled what people learned they would maintain power. When the some scientist discovered the earth was round and the planets, including the earth, rotated around the sun, some priests could not comprehend that God would do that, so the church made Galileo recant his findings. Copernicus’ writings were burned as heretical.
Scientists and clergymen may conflict a lot, but Scripture has not been proven wrong, only interpretations of it. The more we discover our grandeur of all that is in this universe and the more we grow in our faith in God the greater do we worship and glorify the wisdom of God who created all of this. If only the secularists would get over their willful biases to explain our creator away!
As we discussed last week Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes later in life when he was living out of fellowship and under the judgment of God. From that time on, life took on a heaviness that was not apparent when he was walking with the Lord. As he looks at life he finds earthly pursuits without the Lord is vain and empty soap bubbles. Here and gone.
We gain wisdom from the time we are babies and pick up what we watch and hear from our parents. Many things in our society add to our learning for good or for ill. Television, music, siblings, friends, schools, churches, books, and probably more than anything, the experiences of life add to that wisdom. That is perhaps why Solomon in pursuit of wisdom wants to experience all that life has to offer and evaluates that search in different ways.
What are lessons that you have learned that are not taught in any school? What does God want to teach you or remind you today?
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues Jan 27
Theme- School Time Blues
Verses Eccl 1:12-13 I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men!
Follow Wisdom.
Solomon wanted wisdom more than anything else. But when one is divinely gifted that begins the search, not ends the matter. One begins to learn and follows where interests, need, and study leads. He prayed that God would give him wisdom to do what is right. Having been granted wisdom to know right from wrong it was an ongoing daily task to choose right. After knowing the path to follow courage was needed to follow that path.
He diligently applied his heart to wisdom; he observed all things. At the beginning of his studies he came up with keen scientific discoveries, organizational principles, psychology, philosophy, politics, as well as sociology. Others came to learn under the teaching of this master. I Kings 4:33 "He spoke 3,000 proverbs and his songs numbered 1,005 He described plant life, from the cedar of Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of walls. He also taught about animals and birds, reptiles and fish. Men of all nations came to listen to Solomon's wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom."
I used to have a sign up in my study read, "If you think education is expensive then you ought to try ignorance." More than anything Solomon asked for wisdom. It still has its value. James tells us if you lack wisdom ask of God who gives it liberally. People anywhere and everywhere should never fear truth. There have been Christians who have been afraid of too much education for fear that they or others will lose their faith. Some fear that some discoveries will prove the Bible wrong and therefore don't want to ask the important questions truth.
The history of Bethel Seminary started with a great deal of controversy. Many of the early Swedish Baptists felt the problem with many pastors was they had too much education and not enough faith. There was more reliance on the books of study than the Holy Spirit. There was suspicion of educated men on the part of many parishioners because now they don't speak the same language and weren't on the same communication level. Some with education looked down on those who didn't have it. There were also many people who did go on to school for further education. Many who went on to college had become skeptics. Because students are taught to question many doubted what they were taught when it came to matters of faith.
Light is better than darkness, to know is much better than not.
Solomon not only learned through the books but more importantly with the observation and the experience of life and the things that are around them. The word in Hebrew means to investigate the roots of a matter- sort of like a doctoral candidate does when he works on a thesis or dissertation. They go to library and now the internet and research what has been done and what hasn’t been written on the topics yet.
Socrates has been called the father of ancient philosophy. Philosophy means the love of wisdom. He began the searching for wisdom He had an inquiring mind and went to the oracle of Delphia and asked who was the wisest of all Greeks from whom he would learn. The answer dumb founded him, :"You are" He thought, "Now surely I do not know anything I must learn from others. Socrates went to search the wise teachers, and asked question. What he discovered was they didn't really know anything. They thought they did, but there was nothing to their wisdom. Finally it hit him. "I know one thing. That is this. I know I don't know anything. That is one thing more than all these other people know. Therefore I am the wisest. I at least know that.”
The father of ancient philosophy dialogued with students encouraging and questioning. Modeling that principle learners do not want to just take answers from other people but pursue and seek wisdom for themselves.
When it comes to discovering God it isn’t the faith of our parents, or pastors or Sunday school teachers which holds us strong. It is the personal discovery of a living and loving Lord. We need to believe because we have discovered Jesus to be Lord of all. Moses told the people to meditate on God’s word day and night. Paul tells Timothy “study to show thyself approved unto God.” Paul was used mightily of God as one of the best educated of all the apostles. Knowledge gives us mastery of certain facts; wisdom gives us the ability to use those facts with skill. Wisdom gives us understanding and good judgment. There is advice to get all the education you can. Never stop learning, when we stop learning we stop growing. When one stops learning, one stops growing. The first rule of education according to the wisest man was to follow wisdom.
What are you doing presently to stretch your mind and gain understanding? Solomon learned a lot, but discovered the true source of all wisdom.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds Jan 28
Theme- School Time Blues
Verses- Eccl 1:14-18 I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
15 What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted.
16 I thought to myself, "Look, I have grown and increased in wisdom more than anyone who has ruled over Jerusalem before me; I have experienced much of wisdom and knowledge."
17 Then I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind.
18 For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief.
Folly of Wisdom
How can Solomon sound so positive in the book of Proverbs and negative in this writing? Solomon realizes that everything cannot be put into nice little pat answers and there are warnings that he must give.
What did Solomon do with all his wisdom? He became in his later years a wise fool. Do you know what that is, a sophomore. “Soph” mean wise, or wisdom. "More", is from moran, a fool or a buffoon. Sophomore is a wise fool. It used to be of sophomores that just because you have some wisdom, don't think you know it all. We need the understanding of Socrates. The most important thing to know is how little we really do know. Yes, Solomon was King, but he had to learn that God was sovereign. When one breaks God's laws God breaks him and all his wisdom was dust and chasing after the wind when he was living out of fellowship with the Lord.
The Bible talks about wise fools. Romans 1:21,22 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened, Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools."
The subtle thinking by many in the secular world portrayed as experts affect their students conscious and unconsciously by people who ignore God. Many young people are faced strongly with a model of humanistic teaching. That has man as the center of wisdom.
If higher education as an end of itself brings fulfillment, what do we find on campuses around the country? Satisfied happy people? No, Suicide rate are highest among students because of the pressure to achieve and succeed the realization of competition is overwhelming. They are boiling pots of controversy, political activism, all kinds of subjective ideas and philosophies prove to be empty. The answer of life isn't just studying more. Secular educators and intellectuals rarely are happy and satisfied people.
As people are taught to question and doubt it is natural many will reevaluate their own faith and teachings of their parents. You need your own personal faith. The faith of your church, your pastors, your leaders, and your parents can help a little, but each person must have an individual relationship with Jesus Christ.
Where is truth in a relativistic and pluralistic society? The scientific principles that were facts when I was in school are not longer facts today. They are shown to be false in many conclusions. Medical science makes new discoveries only to say “Whoops” a bit later that the things that were suppose to be bad for you are now good and vice versa.
I watched an episode on public TV awhile ago called Ancient Secrets of the Bible. Scholars were presenting how certain events in the Bible are pure fable, impossible, and folk religion not based on any solid evidence. The program continued to show how indeed archeology, new discoveries and recent finds confirm scientifically the validity of some of these stories which were challenged.
When I was younger I also heard similar arguments and had my doubts about the Bible when important authorities show contradictions. I decided to go beyond those sources and look up some data myself. To my surprise I realize like Solomon, there is nothing new under the sun. People for years have debunked some historical events in the Bible to be surprised that archeology uncovered some evidence of the very things they said could not happen. Sometime it was a person or ruler by the same name in a different time period. Instead of showing inconsistencies they raise up “yes, but” arguments. They move from what they found to be false conclusions and start attacking the next thing on their list. It doesn’t end when the goal of secularists are to replace God.
Like Billy Graham I came to a place in my life where by faith I accepted the Bible as being the Word of God and realized the writings of 1000s of years last. The last new discoveries come and go. I am not saying they don’t have a place, or help us better understand time and culture, but the validity of truth brings us to a God who is above all and over all.
The folly of wisdom is to place mankind on the throne of authority and discover our insights and pride have taken over the arena where God has resided and continues to dwell.
Although there are many skeptics, still the Bible holds true. Who do you believe -the professor who says one thing, or the book that has been vindicated in ancient records throughout the centuries? When education leads you in a path different from the truths of the Bible it is folly.
Education has made great strides in space technology, nuclear research, the archeology and geologists have discovered truth. Much of the advancement with computers will affect the lives of us all. Yet no peace, only weapon of distrust and economic tools of manipulation to control other nations. Billions of dollars are spent on researching the problems of human behavior but violent crimes continue to increase and; mental disorders more prevalent than before. Education is failing, it is not the ultimate answer.
As one man said, "Get some education, so people won't look down on you, and then get some more, so you won't look down on others." Some set themselves up as authorities treading upon students and other people treating them with little respect or appreciation. They know the answers to some questions. But unlike Socrates, instead of the humble spirit of realizing how much there is to know and be known, we are fools to replace the source of all wisdom. The more we learn the more we are open to truth of God and more aware we're not so smart after all.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Thurs Jan 29
Theme- School Time Blues
Verses- Eccl 2:12-16 Then I turned my thoughts to consider wisdom, and also madness and folly. What more can the king's successor do than what has already been done?
13 I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness.
14 The wise man has eyes in his head, while the fool walks in the darkness; but I came to realize that the same fate overtakes them both.
15 Then I thought in my heart, "The fate of the fool will overtake me also. What then do I gain by being wise?" I said in my heart, "This too is meaningless."
16 For the wise man, like the fool, will not be long remembered; in days to come both will be forgotten. Like the fool, the wise man too must die!
Futility in Wisdom
I hope I never stop learning. Many of my friends and classmates have received their doctorate degree. Those who are not teaching thought it would be an advancement to larger and higher paying churches. Many of those friends are no longer in the pastorate. That is a complication now for some for whom their doctorate is almost a hindrance to a job. Some stopped learning after they reached their goal. Others find study rewarding when it has a personal purpose. I look at my stack of books with the amazing awareness that few people want them or care when I’m gone. Most of what I read and studied has not been worth passing on. It seemed like a waste of time. There is no lack of making of books but for what reason?
The futility of wisdom is after you have pursued it, learned, and feasted on knowledge that's all you have. It doesn't really give you a sense of satisfaction for you never have arrived. There is always more you don't know. There are further things you don't understand and you live your whole life gaining education but what good is it if your heart is not right?
I am troubled when we in our church or Sunday school try to influence the teaching of the word of God and compare that with the daily instruction in and outside of school. If people were very faithful to Sunday School that is 40 minutes a week after attendance, songs, and acknowledging birthdays. If you consider children church or a sermon that would be 30 minutes or 56 hours of Bible teaching or preaching a year. That works out to 2 1/2 weeks of the equivalent of school and that it for the year. What if our educational system close up the books and sent kids home after 2 ½ weeks? Any teacher in the public school would protest and say there is no way we can begin to teach our children the fundamentals of math in that time, or English, or science, or social studies. They would refuse to teach. Yet that is what we have with volunteer teachers. Then folks expect the church to provide all the religious education that many will ever receive in their lives. Then recognize that the place of Sunday school and church has also changed in influence of our society. Everything in our society comes before and ahead of Bible teaching. IF there is an activity in school or community those get priority over any religious instruction. The fact that we are able to accomplish Biblical teach at all isn't to our credit but only to the Holy Spirit.
As we look at 2:12-16 Solomon's argument is that the pursuit of secular wisdom is futile when you this is all you have, for all your degrees and accomplishments will be buried with you in the grave, then what? All the wisdom in the world is not going to prepare you to die. You need the wisdom of the next world.
Three conclusions are raised. 1. Death does not recognize the excellence of wisdom- both the educated, and the unlearned go to the grave and there is the equalizer of us all. The grave is something we all face. 2. Death does not recognize the desire of wisdom. All the motivation whether noble or not makes not difference at the time of death. When your motivation on this earth is to learn and even spread that learning when you die it's over. You are personally no better off than the guy that learns nothing after your dead. 3. Death does not remember the work of wisdom. People forget. Personal recognition will name and honor people very few like Socrates, Aristotle, Einstein, Universities will name halls sometimes after founders of educational institutions and presidents, but what good is that after you're dead. This in and of itself seems futile.
Solomon devoted his whole life to wisdom and learning. But something was missing. All the certificates on his wall didn’t seem to give him fulfillment.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Fri Jan 30
Theme- School Time Blues
Verses- Eccl 2: 13 I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness.
Prov 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Fulfillment in Wisdom
Wisdom is important. The pursue of truth is far superior to wallowing around in ignorance, superstition and prejudice. But real truth and wisdom only stems from God. Solomon knew that at the beginning when he said, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Follow that all your life, but he didn't follow his own advice.
Judi and I were listening to a tape of a pastor who was preaching the truth of God in a most powerful way. Yet he himself was blinded to the temptations of sin and is out of the minister today for moral reasons. Why? Because even though people walk with the Lord for awhile and commit their hearts to him, it is a continual reminder that we need to daily and regularly trust in Him. We needed to be reminded the only way wisdom has fulfillment of enjoyment is when God is in it.
Friends, we can't be so smart and eternally lost. Matt 12:42. “The queen of South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom and now one greater than Solomon is here."
Jesus said, John 14:16 "I will ask the Father and he will give you another counselor to be with you forever the spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him, but you know him for he lives with you and will be in you. ..But the counselor, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."
When we remove Jesus Christ from the center of an intellectual pursuit we're headed for ultimate disaster. Solomon discovers the only way to find satisfaction and relief from boredom is through relationship with the living God. Apart from Him we have school time blues.
Jesus came to show us the Father. After we accepted Christ there is implanted in our hearts a new wisdom from God. It is spiritual wisdom not of this world. He is wise who knows the source of knowledge that source is God. (see I Cor 1:18-25)
I am amazed that even when I went to school the principles taught were considered truth are now obsolete. The way churches function when I went to seminary are not the way churches function today. Cultures change considerable in time. But that which is lasting over 2,000 years and still changed people will never be obsolete. Even Paul with all his degrees and zeal and knowledge under the best religious teacher was blinded on the road by a supernatural vision of Jesus who asked, "Saul , Saul, why do you persecute me?" A couple days later when Ananias told him of the cross, and his need for repentance it was the humble, child-like faith in Jesus that opened his life to real wisdom. "Jesus said, except you come as these little children you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Salvation is not complicated. We do not have to spend years studying. A little child old enough to understand right from wrong can accept Jesus. I will trust Him with what I know and what I do not know.
We may have had an excellent education, a sparkling success, and have a world of pleasure without really being happy or satisfied, because God has built into us a vacuum which only He can fill. Our deepest ongoing cannot be met by earthly things that pass away. We need God and the only way to come to Him is through faith.
Ruth Graham tells the story of a small bootblack polishing shoes enthusiastically. One fellow that came to him once a week had three earned PhDs. One day, feeling unhappy, the scholar looked at the bootblack working so cheerfully and enthusiastically on his shoes and thought of his own misery. “Why are you so happy?”
He looked and said simply, "Jesus. He loves me. He died so God could forgive all my badness. He makes me happy." Quickly the doctor snapped up the newspaper over his face but the brilliant professor could not escape those simple works and that was what eventually brought the professor faith in Christ. The man was Alexander Grigolia, Professor of anthropology, who was Dr. Billy Graham's beloved and influential professor in college. I wasn't education that mattered; it was Jesus Christ that made the difference. Jesus gave his education a new meaning and renewed love in his learning.
That is the fulfillment of wisdom.
Pastor Dale
Often Wondered
Often wondered why us kids Just have to go to school
And read and write and spell a spell, and learn the golden rule
Often wondered too just why some kids are teachers pets
An why she picks on me the most, just every chance she gets.
Wondered too, just hy my card Has all the Fs and D's
While little homer always gets those higher A's and B's
Just ain't no future anyhow so far as I ccan see.
A sittin and a learning, while elders go scott free.
I Kings 4:33 "He spoke 3,000 proverbs and his songs numbered 1,005 He described plant life, from the cedar of Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of walls. He also taught about animals and birds, reptiles and fish. Men of all nations came to listen to Solomon's wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom."
Romans 1:21,22 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened, Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools."
Matt 12:42. The queen of South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom and now one greater than Solomon is here."
John 14:16 "I will ask the Father and he will give you another counselor to be with you forever the spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him, but you know him for he lives with you and will be in you. ..But the counselor, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."
Sermon Nuggets Mon Jan 26
Theme: SCHOOL TIME BLUES
Verses- Eccl 1:13 I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men!
The Formulation of Wisdom
Solomon was given the gift of wisdom. He wanted to explain its importance. During his mid years when many of the Proverbs were compiled he wanted to pass on many significant lessons. He began his writings this way-
Prov 1:1-7 “The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel for attaining wisdom and discipline; for understanding words of insight; for acquiring a disciplined and prudent life, doing what is right and just and fair; for giving prudence to the simple, knowledge and discretion to the young- let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the discerning get guidance- for understanding proverbs and parables, the sayings and riddles of the wise. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."
One begins to learn from the King there is a difference between getting knowledge and applying knowledge. All societies see the importance of an education. The higher the literacy the rate the stronger the society as it is better able to communicate and evaluate things that are important in life. Wise people love to learn. The more study and searching and reading and learning one has they more than can apply wisdom. But wisdom and education are not the same thing.
How do you look at education? For many it is being under lock and chain - some kids can't wait to get out from school. For some in high school or college there is the excitement to advance their education or vocational aspirations. For others it is a chance to get into the real world and get a job and earn money, so they can live independently. For many education is an avenue to achieve a goal, for others it is the processes of developing understanding of life. For some it is the road to a higher standard of living and having more options later in life from which to choose. Many illiterate and uneducated populations are barely etching out an existence while cultured society with high literacy and technology, experience a higher standard of living.
If we believe that God is the God of truth, all truth is from God. We then can be excited about find our more of his creation and how it works. It is to his glory we understand and discover truth.
One of the saddest periods of time in our history was what is called the Dark Ages when for centuries the Roman catholic church stopped the masses from individual learning. The church began to dictate truth and eliminate the pursuit of discovery. Like many dictatorships they believed in they controlled what people learned they would maintain power. When the some scientist discovered the earth was round and the planets, including the earth, rotated around the sun, some priests could not comprehend that God would do that, so the church made Galileo recant his findings. Copernicus’ writings were burned as heretical.
Scientists and clergymen may conflict a lot, but Scripture has not been proven wrong, only interpretations of it. The more we discover our grandeur of all that is in this universe and the more we grow in our faith in God the greater do we worship and glorify the wisdom of God who created all of this. If only the secularists would get over their willful biases to explain our creator away!
As we discussed last week Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes later in life when he was living out of fellowship and under the judgment of God. From that time on, life took on a heaviness that was not apparent when he was walking with the Lord. As he looks at life he finds earthly pursuits without the Lord is vain and empty soap bubbles. Here and gone.
We gain wisdom from the time we are babies and pick up what we watch and hear from our parents. Many things in our society add to our learning for good or for ill. Television, music, siblings, friends, schools, churches, books, and probably more than anything, the experiences of life add to that wisdom. That is perhaps why Solomon in pursuit of wisdom wants to experience all that life has to offer and evaluates that search in different ways.
What are lessons that you have learned that are not taught in any school? What does God want to teach you or remind you today?
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues Jan 27
Theme- School Time Blues
Verses Eccl 1:12-13 I, the Teacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem. I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men!
Follow Wisdom.
Solomon wanted wisdom more than anything else. But when one is divinely gifted that begins the search, not ends the matter. One begins to learn and follows where interests, need, and study leads. He prayed that God would give him wisdom to do what is right. Having been granted wisdom to know right from wrong it was an ongoing daily task to choose right. After knowing the path to follow courage was needed to follow that path.
He diligently applied his heart to wisdom; he observed all things. At the beginning of his studies he came up with keen scientific discoveries, organizational principles, psychology, philosophy, politics, as well as sociology. Others came to learn under the teaching of this master. I Kings 4:33 "He spoke 3,000 proverbs and his songs numbered 1,005 He described plant life, from the cedar of Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of walls. He also taught about animals and birds, reptiles and fish. Men of all nations came to listen to Solomon's wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom."
I used to have a sign up in my study read, "If you think education is expensive then you ought to try ignorance." More than anything Solomon asked for wisdom. It still has its value. James tells us if you lack wisdom ask of God who gives it liberally. People anywhere and everywhere should never fear truth. There have been Christians who have been afraid of too much education for fear that they or others will lose their faith. Some fear that some discoveries will prove the Bible wrong and therefore don't want to ask the important questions truth.
The history of Bethel Seminary started with a great deal of controversy. Many of the early Swedish Baptists felt the problem with many pastors was they had too much education and not enough faith. There was more reliance on the books of study than the Holy Spirit. There was suspicion of educated men on the part of many parishioners because now they don't speak the same language and weren't on the same communication level. Some with education looked down on those who didn't have it. There were also many people who did go on to school for further education. Many who went on to college had become skeptics. Because students are taught to question many doubted what they were taught when it came to matters of faith.
Light is better than darkness, to know is much better than not.
Solomon not only learned through the books but more importantly with the observation and the experience of life and the things that are around them. The word in Hebrew means to investigate the roots of a matter- sort of like a doctoral candidate does when he works on a thesis or dissertation. They go to library and now the internet and research what has been done and what hasn’t been written on the topics yet.
Socrates has been called the father of ancient philosophy. Philosophy means the love of wisdom. He began the searching for wisdom He had an inquiring mind and went to the oracle of Delphia and asked who was the wisest of all Greeks from whom he would learn. The answer dumb founded him, :"You are" He thought, "Now surely I do not know anything I must learn from others. Socrates went to search the wise teachers, and asked question. What he discovered was they didn't really know anything. They thought they did, but there was nothing to their wisdom. Finally it hit him. "I know one thing. That is this. I know I don't know anything. That is one thing more than all these other people know. Therefore I am the wisest. I at least know that.”
The father of ancient philosophy dialogued with students encouraging and questioning. Modeling that principle learners do not want to just take answers from other people but pursue and seek wisdom for themselves.
When it comes to discovering God it isn’t the faith of our parents, or pastors or Sunday school teachers which holds us strong. It is the personal discovery of a living and loving Lord. We need to believe because we have discovered Jesus to be Lord of all. Moses told the people to meditate on God’s word day and night. Paul tells Timothy “study to show thyself approved unto God.” Paul was used mightily of God as one of the best educated of all the apostles. Knowledge gives us mastery of certain facts; wisdom gives us the ability to use those facts with skill. Wisdom gives us understanding and good judgment. There is advice to get all the education you can. Never stop learning, when we stop learning we stop growing. When one stops learning, one stops growing. The first rule of education according to the wisest man was to follow wisdom.
What are you doing presently to stretch your mind and gain understanding? Solomon learned a lot, but discovered the true source of all wisdom.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds Jan 28
Theme- School Time Blues
Verses- Eccl 1:14-18 I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.
15 What is twisted cannot be straightened; what is lacking cannot be counted.
16 I thought to myself, "Look, I have grown and increased in wisdom more than anyone who has ruled over Jerusalem before me; I have experienced much of wisdom and knowledge."
17 Then I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind.
18 For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief.
Folly of Wisdom
How can Solomon sound so positive in the book of Proverbs and negative in this writing? Solomon realizes that everything cannot be put into nice little pat answers and there are warnings that he must give.
What did Solomon do with all his wisdom? He became in his later years a wise fool. Do you know what that is, a sophomore. “Soph” mean wise, or wisdom. "More", is from moran, a fool or a buffoon. Sophomore is a wise fool. It used to be of sophomores that just because you have some wisdom, don't think you know it all. We need the understanding of Socrates. The most important thing to know is how little we really do know. Yes, Solomon was King, but he had to learn that God was sovereign. When one breaks God's laws God breaks him and all his wisdom was dust and chasing after the wind when he was living out of fellowship with the Lord.
The Bible talks about wise fools. Romans 1:21,22 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened, Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools."
The subtle thinking by many in the secular world portrayed as experts affect their students conscious and unconsciously by people who ignore God. Many young people are faced strongly with a model of humanistic teaching. That has man as the center of wisdom.
If higher education as an end of itself brings fulfillment, what do we find on campuses around the country? Satisfied happy people? No, Suicide rate are highest among students because of the pressure to achieve and succeed the realization of competition is overwhelming. They are boiling pots of controversy, political activism, all kinds of subjective ideas and philosophies prove to be empty. The answer of life isn't just studying more. Secular educators and intellectuals rarely are happy and satisfied people.
As people are taught to question and doubt it is natural many will reevaluate their own faith and teachings of their parents. You need your own personal faith. The faith of your church, your pastors, your leaders, and your parents can help a little, but each person must have an individual relationship with Jesus Christ.
Where is truth in a relativistic and pluralistic society? The scientific principles that were facts when I was in school are not longer facts today. They are shown to be false in many conclusions. Medical science makes new discoveries only to say “Whoops” a bit later that the things that were suppose to be bad for you are now good and vice versa.
I watched an episode on public TV awhile ago called Ancient Secrets of the Bible. Scholars were presenting how certain events in the Bible are pure fable, impossible, and folk religion not based on any solid evidence. The program continued to show how indeed archeology, new discoveries and recent finds confirm scientifically the validity of some of these stories which were challenged.
When I was younger I also heard similar arguments and had my doubts about the Bible when important authorities show contradictions. I decided to go beyond those sources and look up some data myself. To my surprise I realize like Solomon, there is nothing new under the sun. People for years have debunked some historical events in the Bible to be surprised that archeology uncovered some evidence of the very things they said could not happen. Sometime it was a person or ruler by the same name in a different time period. Instead of showing inconsistencies they raise up “yes, but” arguments. They move from what they found to be false conclusions and start attacking the next thing on their list. It doesn’t end when the goal of secularists are to replace God.
Like Billy Graham I came to a place in my life where by faith I accepted the Bible as being the Word of God and realized the writings of 1000s of years last. The last new discoveries come and go. I am not saying they don’t have a place, or help us better understand time and culture, but the validity of truth brings us to a God who is above all and over all.
The folly of wisdom is to place mankind on the throne of authority and discover our insights and pride have taken over the arena where God has resided and continues to dwell.
Although there are many skeptics, still the Bible holds true. Who do you believe -the professor who says one thing, or the book that has been vindicated in ancient records throughout the centuries? When education leads you in a path different from the truths of the Bible it is folly.
Education has made great strides in space technology, nuclear research, the archeology and geologists have discovered truth. Much of the advancement with computers will affect the lives of us all. Yet no peace, only weapon of distrust and economic tools of manipulation to control other nations. Billions of dollars are spent on researching the problems of human behavior but violent crimes continue to increase and; mental disorders more prevalent than before. Education is failing, it is not the ultimate answer.
As one man said, "Get some education, so people won't look down on you, and then get some more, so you won't look down on others." Some set themselves up as authorities treading upon students and other people treating them with little respect or appreciation. They know the answers to some questions. But unlike Socrates, instead of the humble spirit of realizing how much there is to know and be known, we are fools to replace the source of all wisdom. The more we learn the more we are open to truth of God and more aware we're not so smart after all.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Thurs Jan 29
Theme- School Time Blues
Verses- Eccl 2:12-16 Then I turned my thoughts to consider wisdom, and also madness and folly. What more can the king's successor do than what has already been done?
13 I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness.
14 The wise man has eyes in his head, while the fool walks in the darkness; but I came to realize that the same fate overtakes them both.
15 Then I thought in my heart, "The fate of the fool will overtake me also. What then do I gain by being wise?" I said in my heart, "This too is meaningless."
16 For the wise man, like the fool, will not be long remembered; in days to come both will be forgotten. Like the fool, the wise man too must die!
Futility in Wisdom
I hope I never stop learning. Many of my friends and classmates have received their doctorate degree. Those who are not teaching thought it would be an advancement to larger and higher paying churches. Many of those friends are no longer in the pastorate. That is a complication now for some for whom their doctorate is almost a hindrance to a job. Some stopped learning after they reached their goal. Others find study rewarding when it has a personal purpose. I look at my stack of books with the amazing awareness that few people want them or care when I’m gone. Most of what I read and studied has not been worth passing on. It seemed like a waste of time. There is no lack of making of books but for what reason?
The futility of wisdom is after you have pursued it, learned, and feasted on knowledge that's all you have. It doesn't really give you a sense of satisfaction for you never have arrived. There is always more you don't know. There are further things you don't understand and you live your whole life gaining education but what good is it if your heart is not right?
I am troubled when we in our church or Sunday school try to influence the teaching of the word of God and compare that with the daily instruction in and outside of school. If people were very faithful to Sunday School that is 40 minutes a week after attendance, songs, and acknowledging birthdays. If you consider children church or a sermon that would be 30 minutes or 56 hours of Bible teaching or preaching a year. That works out to 2 1/2 weeks of the equivalent of school and that it for the year. What if our educational system close up the books and sent kids home after 2 ½ weeks? Any teacher in the public school would protest and say there is no way we can begin to teach our children the fundamentals of math in that time, or English, or science, or social studies. They would refuse to teach. Yet that is what we have with volunteer teachers. Then folks expect the church to provide all the religious education that many will ever receive in their lives. Then recognize that the place of Sunday school and church has also changed in influence of our society. Everything in our society comes before and ahead of Bible teaching. IF there is an activity in school or community those get priority over any religious instruction. The fact that we are able to accomplish Biblical teach at all isn't to our credit but only to the Holy Spirit.
As we look at 2:12-16 Solomon's argument is that the pursuit of secular wisdom is futile when you this is all you have, for all your degrees and accomplishments will be buried with you in the grave, then what? All the wisdom in the world is not going to prepare you to die. You need the wisdom of the next world.
Three conclusions are raised. 1. Death does not recognize the excellence of wisdom- both the educated, and the unlearned go to the grave and there is the equalizer of us all. The grave is something we all face. 2. Death does not recognize the desire of wisdom. All the motivation whether noble or not makes not difference at the time of death. When your motivation on this earth is to learn and even spread that learning when you die it's over. You are personally no better off than the guy that learns nothing after your dead. 3. Death does not remember the work of wisdom. People forget. Personal recognition will name and honor people very few like Socrates, Aristotle, Einstein, Universities will name halls sometimes after founders of educational institutions and presidents, but what good is that after you're dead. This in and of itself seems futile.
Solomon devoted his whole life to wisdom and learning. But something was missing. All the certificates on his wall didn’t seem to give him fulfillment.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Fri Jan 30
Theme- School Time Blues
Verses- Eccl 2: 13 I saw that wisdom is better than folly, just as light is better than darkness.
Prov 9:10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
Fulfillment in Wisdom
Wisdom is important. The pursue of truth is far superior to wallowing around in ignorance, superstition and prejudice. But real truth and wisdom only stems from God. Solomon knew that at the beginning when he said, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Follow that all your life, but he didn't follow his own advice.
Judi and I were listening to a tape of a pastor who was preaching the truth of God in a most powerful way. Yet he himself was blinded to the temptations of sin and is out of the minister today for moral reasons. Why? Because even though people walk with the Lord for awhile and commit their hearts to him, it is a continual reminder that we need to daily and regularly trust in Him. We needed to be reminded the only way wisdom has fulfillment of enjoyment is when God is in it.
Friends, we can't be so smart and eternally lost. Matt 12:42. “The queen of South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom and now one greater than Solomon is here."
Jesus said, John 14:16 "I will ask the Father and he will give you another counselor to be with you forever the spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him, but you know him for he lives with you and will be in you. ..But the counselor, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."
When we remove Jesus Christ from the center of an intellectual pursuit we're headed for ultimate disaster. Solomon discovers the only way to find satisfaction and relief from boredom is through relationship with the living God. Apart from Him we have school time blues.
Jesus came to show us the Father. After we accepted Christ there is implanted in our hearts a new wisdom from God. It is spiritual wisdom not of this world. He is wise who knows the source of knowledge that source is God. (see I Cor 1:18-25)
I am amazed that even when I went to school the principles taught were considered truth are now obsolete. The way churches function when I went to seminary are not the way churches function today. Cultures change considerable in time. But that which is lasting over 2,000 years and still changed people will never be obsolete. Even Paul with all his degrees and zeal and knowledge under the best religious teacher was blinded on the road by a supernatural vision of Jesus who asked, "Saul , Saul, why do you persecute me?" A couple days later when Ananias told him of the cross, and his need for repentance it was the humble, child-like faith in Jesus that opened his life to real wisdom. "Jesus said, except you come as these little children you shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Salvation is not complicated. We do not have to spend years studying. A little child old enough to understand right from wrong can accept Jesus. I will trust Him with what I know and what I do not know.
We may have had an excellent education, a sparkling success, and have a world of pleasure without really being happy or satisfied, because God has built into us a vacuum which only He can fill. Our deepest ongoing cannot be met by earthly things that pass away. We need God and the only way to come to Him is through faith.
Ruth Graham tells the story of a small bootblack polishing shoes enthusiastically. One fellow that came to him once a week had three earned PhDs. One day, feeling unhappy, the scholar looked at the bootblack working so cheerfully and enthusiastically on his shoes and thought of his own misery. “Why are you so happy?”
He looked and said simply, "Jesus. He loves me. He died so God could forgive all my badness. He makes me happy." Quickly the doctor snapped up the newspaper over his face but the brilliant professor could not escape those simple works and that was what eventually brought the professor faith in Christ. The man was Alexander Grigolia, Professor of anthropology, who was Dr. Billy Graham's beloved and influential professor in college. I wasn't education that mattered; it was Jesus Christ that made the difference. Jesus gave his education a new meaning and renewed love in his learning.
That is the fulfillment of wisdom.
Pastor Dale
Often Wondered
Often wondered why us kids Just have to go to school
And read and write and spell a spell, and learn the golden rule
Often wondered too just why some kids are teachers pets
An why she picks on me the most, just every chance she gets.
Wondered too, just hy my card Has all the Fs and D's
While little homer always gets those higher A's and B's
Just ain't no future anyhow so far as I ccan see.
A sittin and a learning, while elders go scott free.
I Kings 4:33 "He spoke 3,000 proverbs and his songs numbered 1,005 He described plant life, from the cedar of Lebanon to the hyssop that grows out of walls. He also taught about animals and birds, reptiles and fish. Men of all nations came to listen to Solomon's wisdom, sent by all the kings of the world, who had heard of his wisdom."
Romans 1:21,22 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened, Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools."
Matt 12:42. The queen of South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom and now one greater than Solomon is here."
John 14:16 "I will ask the Father and he will give you another counselor to be with you forever the spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him, but you know him for he lives with you and will be in you. ..But the counselor, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you."
Friday, January 23, 2009
Solomon's Sermon Eccl 1:1-11
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Sermon Nuggets Week of Jan 19, 2009
Sermon Nuggets Mon Jan 19
Theme- Solomon's Sermon
Verses Eccl 1:1-11
3 What does man gain from all his labor at which he toils under the sun?
Understanding the Sermon
This week I will begin with a new devotional study taken from the book of Ecclesiastes. I confess that lately I’ve felt like a skeptic. Most of the outlines are from a series of sermons I preached in 1993. But my concern in 2009 is it seems the nation literally crumbling before my very eyes, and the religious movements in America is changing so drastically in doctrine and truth that once was foundational beliefs are discarded. The American church is falling apart with more movement to the truth of Paul’s warnings to Timothy 2 Tim 4:3-4 For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”
I realize more each day that we really don't have much time left. I don’t know who will call the nation to repentance and see the truth to present to lost people, but the Jesus many proclaim is a recreation of what we want Him to be.
This book is not so much a call to repentance as it is the revelation of the futility of the things of this world. Hold on to Jesus tight. He is your only strength and hope in these final days. The wisdom of Solomon in his day may allow us to continue our new years self examinations.
On the third day of the Feast of the Tabernacle in Jewish synagogues the book of Ecclesiastes is read. Some are surprised about that for so much of this book seems to be written by a discouraged skeptic. Instead of finding it uplifted and inspirational, many Christians question whether this should be even in the Bible. But I think many have missed the marvelous message as it is written from someone who saw that the promise of this life is vain.
Jeff MacNelly, creator of the comic strip, "Shoe" has skewered politics with just such distrust. He got the jaded view from a childhood experience with T.V. Howdy Doody show. "You have to be very cynical to be a cartoonist," MacNelly said, "In my case when I was 5, Clarabell the clown was my greatest hero. One day, low and behold, my father got a ticket for me to be in the Peanut Gallery at the Howdy Doody show. On Saturday I jumped into my sailor suit and went over there and Buffalo Bob. his voice still rises in wonder, selected me to help go look for Dally's uncle. We had to walk up to this machine that made snow. I stopped to look and on coast to coast TV, I started asking questions all about this snow machine. All of a sudden a big hand reaches out, pulls me out of the camera and says, "Now shut up kid" It was Clarabell. That planted the seed. That's how it works."
Someone said, that a realist is an idealist who has gone through the fire and has been purified. A skeptic is an idealist who has gone through the fire and has been burned. There is a difference. I believe that many experiences can make us better people and those same experience can make some bitter people. Which are you an idealist, a realist, or a skeptic?
The book of Ecclesiastes is written for all people and asks some of the most basic questions of life. He asks the question what is life all about really. It seems the writer has been completely disillusioned with it and concludes that life is just a great big nothing. Ecclesiastes is not a skeptical book at all in my opinion.
I believe it is a realistic book. I believe that Solomon was an idealist who had gone through the fire and has been purified. I believe this preacher/teacher is not one who is speaking from a natural man's point of view. I believe if we understand that message within the context of Solomon's life and situation it is as authoritative and inspired as the rest of the Bible. As we begin this study we have a greater understanding of life even as we evaluate some important things.
This search for meaning becomes the basis of this autobiographical presentation by the wisest man on earth at the time. (Before Jesus). Maybe it is wise to do self evaluation and ask ourselves what value is gained in this thing called life? There is amazing beauty all around us, but when we are at the center of it all it seems to come and go so quickly. We need that stable anchor in unsettled times. It’s good to remind ourselves that it will not be found in Washington even though we want to pray regular for our new president and elected officials.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues Jan 20
Verses Eccl 1:1-2
1 The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem:
2 "Meaningless! Meaningless!" says the Teacher. "Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless."
Understanding Solomon's Situation
Ecclesiastes is an interesting book and far different than most of other Scriptures. The author identifies himself, declares his theme and introduces the question addressed in this book. Aw we get an overview of the sermon from Solomon, Son of David, it is helpful to look at his situation. 1:1 The name Ecclesiastes is the Greek equivalent of Qoheleth - Hebrew word which means a convener of an assembly.
The church is sometimes called in Greek, Ecclesia, or the assembly, or called out ones, or the gathering. That is the same word as Ecclesiastes only this is the one that does the calling or the convening or the teaching of the assembly. Sometimes the word is translated the preacher or the teacher or the convener and that's how the book got its name.
There is no one who could be a Son of David as he is identified and have as much experience other than the King. He is the wealthiest, and the most powerful. He is the Preacher, the son of David, King in Jerusalem (v 12). There are three books he wrote, each in an entirely different style because I think he wrote them at different periods in his life. The Song of Solomon was written as a young man deeply in love. In his middle years many of his proverbs, and wisdom that came from God were complied into the book of the proverbs. But the book of Ecclesiastes was written, in my opinion, when he was old. I believe he strayed from some of his own wisdom he taught and came back to tell his story to all who will listen for their own good.
To remind ourselves of Solomon’s situation he started on the right foot. I Kings 3:5- 15 explain that Solomon started with a commendable attitude. "Lord help me."
If you had that opportunity to have any wish you could have, what would it be? The whole movie "Alladin" is the story of the magical lamp that could give anyone wishes. The conflict of good and evil continues because of the greed and wickedness of selfish hearts. God certainly knows the desires of men's hearts. Solomon was appointed as king and what he wanted more than anything else was the desire to be wise. He asked for wisdom. "I'm just a little child. I don't know how to take all the responsibilities that are needed to judge and rule over these people. Lord this job is more than I can handle I need you to help me and give me wisdom."
God said, "Solomon you could have asked for many things, you are a man who has asked rightly not for yourself as much as for the people you serve. Therefore Solomon, I will grant your request, but as an added measure and blessing I will also give you wealth and long life and honor and fame You will be the greatest of Kings if you walk in the ways and obey my statues and commands as David had done."
He had been given the gift-now it was up to him to do his part. What gifts has God given you? Your talents are also gifts from God, musical ability, money, management, hospitality, love, children, mechanical abilities, academic prowess, leader, friendly? They are given to you so you can walk in the ways of God in obedience and in love and commitment unto Him.
We see what Solomon did. I King 10:1-9 Queen of Sheba could not believe all the stories of this man's wisdom and wealth and greatness so she had to see for herself. She found it was even greater than the stories she heard.
A noted illustration was how he decided to find the true mother of two women claiming each the baby their theirs. He decided to have the baby divided into two. But the real mother protested to let the other woman have it. Solomon easily knew she was the real mother.
Solomon built fortresses and achieved great accomplishments; he was the king of peace in Israel. He built the temple of the Lord and there has been no time in history that temple matched the greatness of Solomon's temple. He loved and served the Lord in truth and obedience.
But beware, Solomon. You are so gifted that with time most people stumble and fall. After receiving so much for so long it is easy think you can do it on your own.
The gifts abilities and accomplishments of your life can also be the temptations for pride, self sufficiency and independence. Today offer thanks for the gifts your have received and give them for God to use.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds Jan 23
Verses Eccl. 1:4- 8 What does man gain from all his labor at which he toils under the sun?
Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever. The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises. The wind blows to the south and turns to the north; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course. All streams flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full. To the place the streams come from, there they return again.
All things are wearisome, more than one can say. The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing.
Understanding Solomon’s Subject
This theme certainly captures out attention. The King declares everything to be meaningless and vain. The question that is to be answered is “What does man gain from all his labor at which he toils under the sun?” After all Solomon received from the Lord with wealth and fame and power and love he isn't enjoying the excitement of life anymore. He wanted to gather the people around and as the assembly convener gives them a message which we will be looking at for the next several months and we look at different topics in the book. But the subject of his sermon is before us in these opening verses.
The subject of his sermon is what is the meaning and purpose of life? What is it all about? Solomon started as an idealist, seeing the glory of fame, the blessings of riches, the honor of wisdom, but now that God has shown him the folly of his way that doesn't appear to be as exciting anymore. Life has lost its luster. He is learning a very hard lesson and he want to warn his people. Vanity of vanity all is vanity.
Dr. Dan Block used to teach at Bethel. I remember him speaking on this book. He used the term soap bubbles, soap bubbles, all are soap bubbles. That's what life is. A soap bubble that appear and pop is gone is the explanation of the unfulfilled life. There is no substance in it.
Vanity means a vapor. It is here very quickly. Life is so fast and then gone. All things that men think are so important aren't without God. The important questions of life are not why type of car we drive or which neighborhood is the best to live in. But questions-Who is man? Why am I here? What happens after death? How can we know what is real? Solomon's subject is that things of this earth are really vanity, they are nothing.
Life is labor, work, toil. Those who work all their lives to make something of themselves soon discover it did not bring the happiness that they thought. People come and go and whether we work hard or don't really doesn't matter in the long run. There seems to be a monotonous routine that leads to nowhere and little excitement after awhile. A housewife’s routine can seem to leads to nowhere and making beds only to be messed up again, cleaning dishes only to do it the next day. Mopping floors are only to be muddied, vacuum dust over and over again. A man's work is from sun to sun; a woman's work is never done.
One man fished and rested and hunted. Others were telling him he was lazy. He asked why work was so important. "So you can earn more money. "Why?" To make a living, “for what purpose." To save for retirement, "Why?" so you can fish and hunt and rest. What do we have to show at the end of all our labors?
Jesus asked the question concerning labor, "What does it profit you to gain the whole world and lose your own soul" John 6:27,29 "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval. Then they asked him, "What must we do to do the works God requires? Jesus answered, "the work of God is this: To believe in the one he has sent." Ah, the work and labor find meaning when labor isn't an end unto itself or an end to money, but a means to glorify God and be doing his ultimate will.
Verses 4-8 discuss elements of creation. The wind blows round and round, streams flow back and forth, and sun rises and sets, and over and over again without stopping. Everything is restless until he finds his joy in God. You see if nature glorifies God like the psalmist teaches then it is a means to an end. But when we are in a proper relationship to God by Jesus Christ, then nature is not monotonous it is marvelous. When we see we are in the plan, purpose and have a connection with the Almighty then He is glorified not in what we do, but as His children. IT is not in the responsibilities that God delights, but in our relationships. And in that relationship the preacher has something he want everyone to hear. It is his testimony.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Thurs Jan 22
Verses Eccl 1:9-11 What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.
10 Is there anything of which one can say, "Look! This is something new"? It was here already, long ago; it was here before our time.
11 There is no remembrance of men of old, and even those who are yet to come will not be remembered by those who follow.
Understanding Solomon’s Searching
From time to time I see God's blessing and my heart swells with gratitude. I remember the day I came to Stanchfield. That first week I thought I had no right to be here. The job is beyond me. I am not able to handle the situation and staff it is beyond human wisdom. Lord, please help me and guide me for you have called me beyond my capabilities. Through the years the prayers get shorter and there are less tears. As soon as I am tempted to say "I can handle it." boom something falls into my lap that is overwhelming. We are not as smart as we think. God keeps humbling us to make us continually dependent upon Him. Forgiveness and repentance and recommitment is a pattern needed in our Christian growth. Some people never re evaluate their life by God's standards. Only when things go badly do they cry unto God in humility and seek his wisdom and when things go well they don't bother him. That is the way we are. That's why we must daily come to Christ and commit to him all our ways, then he shall direct our paths. I hope that is part of your regular habit. As believers there is no other way.
Vs. 9-10 History doesn't even come up with anything new. Nothing is new under the sun. Everything is the same. Perhaps we see in our day change happening so fast, we can easily say the Old Testament skeptic hadn't lived in a day like ours, but after years one begins to ask so what? So what that telephones are coming in when you take them on your cell phone. Isaac, our youth/music pastor, was introducing me to the 21st century last Friday with a cell phone that does everything electronically, internet, emails, calendars, word processing and accounting program, music, games, and can even call people, text them or tell you where you should be going (GPS). Our world has the star war capabilities of blowing up the world several times with the touch of a computer button. But mortality rate is still 100%. You may change the pawns around the chess board of life a little longer but they are the same moves and the same outcome. We lose if this earthly life is all there is.
Saul didn't want to be king with all that responsibility. God choose him and saw his potential but after awhile it went to his head and his heart changed. He began serving himself and being disobedient to God. David was a man after God' own heart. But like humans before him he too had weaknesses when he failed to keep his eyes on his Shepherd and needed to learn over again that the power of the kingdom was not in his hands but in God's. Now King Solomon is on the throne the wisest of men, richly honored.
Solomon's lusts got the best of him. The Lord realized his heart is not true though wise, yet his wisdom was beginning to be self centered and not God centered. Solomon was departing from the close and needed commitment he desired early in his youth. Solomon could have the desires of his heart; what he wanted was wisdom of God for his people, now however, his heart was following false Gods and women. He was spending money to evil ends. It is in that context that we find an older Solomon preaching now. He had now lost the enjoyment of life.
vs11 When we are dead who remember us? Aren't there just few, very few who gain ancient notoriety and even today some one must be very important and special to be famous. Though not many can name the president 80 years ago unless we look him up and then we have to think even very hard who some of the vice presidents were in your own lifetime. How many can remember the names of their great grandparents on both sides, or even few the great-great grandparents? So 75 years from now Dale Cope will only be a picture on the wall of the church which will no longer be here if God tarries. Indeed, if Stanchfield is still in existence, then it will probably be remodeled again and pictures will be laid aside in some historical nook and cranny.
Then Solomon talked about subjects we'll respond to in the days to come, As Solomon set out to study wisdom and get education, to pursue pleasure, wine, women, song. As he lived the hedonist dream, he concluded it is all empty soap bubbles. Friends if there is one message I went away from in nursing home work, it is from their lips that taught me that lesson. What good is money in later years? Or work or fame, or all the earthly things we sought after? For those who had hope in God there is something to look forward to; Outside of God there was nothing but vanity.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri . Jan 23
Verses Eccl 12:13-14 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole of man.
14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.
Understanding Solomon’s Summary
People tell me that times have changed. We don't have to live by the old standards anymore. We live in a new day of morality, a new day of individual interpretation and understanding, a world where we have eliminated hell and punishment and judgment. But there is one who tried immorality, and pleasures, and work, and study and found himself completely empty.
This first seek of looking at Ecclesiastes I want to look at the conclusion to his sermon. It becomes the lens by which all other things are compared. After all the matter is heard, "Fear God and obey him." When Solomon tried to make sense out of life, tried to learn the lessons in life, after all is said and done there is only God who give us any meaning in life. The revelation is through his word and we have learned with the resurrection Lord Jesus Christ there is hope.
I would like to put Solomon's Summary in three important lessons of life. 1) Earthly pursuits are futile. Solomon has tried them all and they do not satisfy. All that you work for, that you seek in this life is indeed a lie. It is fruitless. It blocks your growth in God. Satan will seek to have you get off the path of real joy for temporary pleasure and in the end there is nothing. You have lost reward, lost meaning, lost purpose, lost reason for living. One only exists. He should know. He tried everything imaginable. Earthly pursuits are futile. All is soap bubbles, vanity, worthless.
2) The joy of the things of this earth come only when they are in proper perspective. At the end of most sections the teacher demonstrates I think a message that is often missed. 2:24-26 All that exists comes from the hand of God for without him who can eat or find enjoyment? " In other words all that exists was created by God for us, but we can only find enjoyment in all of it if we are in the right relationship with God. Remember the creator in the days of your youth and not when you are old and most of your life is gone. To the man who pleases him, God give wisdom knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner these gift of God are not enjoyed for only vapor, they are here and gone again.
This summary of Solomon in the context of the total message of his book is God is the only one that brings eternity to our temporary life. With Him nothing else really matters, where we work or what we do with our lives. Solomon’s message was this – “I in my youth humbly served God and sought wisdom, riches, and women and pleasure and all that life had to offer, but in my personal pursuits I left God behind. Now and see that since I've moved from his grace and goodness I had made a horrible mistake. Nothing is worth it without God and in God everything was made finds worth. Eat, drink and enjoyment are gifts from God but there is something else that is a gift form God-it is the enjoyment of his world. Sin may have its fleeting pleasure, but it is so short lived and it is vanity, a vapor, quickly passes.”
3) The third part of his summary is this. Remember that our ultimate accountability is to God. We must answer for what you do as a Christian and as a non Christian. I heard people rationalizing away disobedience. I have heard people try to convince me they don’t have to follow legalistic laws. I have heard people convince me why they don’t need church, or marry a Christian, or give money into the offering plate. There are lots of religious rituals that mean nothing to them. Why pretend? I agree. Only God knows the heart. But don't tell me, tell God. No one has to answer to me, but don't deceive yourself. The works of God is to believe in Jesus Christ and love God with all your heart and your mind and your soul. If God comes first then he gives you other things to enjoy, but if you lose them, no sweat- for God is in control. If however he is not the love of your life and you lose them then you have lost the love of your life.
Christian's worldview is to be built on biblical framework; it is learning to look at all of life with its science or art, or music, or literature, or T.V through the lenses colored by that which is eternal and true. I ask again what do those who do not know Christ do in situation of tragedy? Where is hope if life is nothing more than struggle to keep alive as long as you can have children to carry on name and leave wealth to? If God is the God of eternity and He has a life everlasting with him then everything finds meaning and purpose in seeking to glorify and honor God. Take it from one who knows. The old king had hard lesson to learn because he had left God. He discovered without Him, life is tasteless. With Him there is meaning. That message is what we will explore in the next few months.
George Beverly Shea wrote a hymn, “I'd rather have Jesus then silver or gold, I'd rather be His than have riches untold; I'd rather have Jesus than house or lands; I'd rather be led by His nail pierced hand that to be king of a vast domain or be held in sins' dread sway. I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today. I'd rather have Jesus than men's' applause, I'd rather be faithful to His dear cause; I'd rather have Jesus than world-wide fame, I'd rather be true to His holy name." Is that you desire?
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Week of Jan 19, 2009
Sermon Nuggets Mon Jan 19
Theme- Solomon's Sermon
Verses Eccl 1:1-11
3 What does man gain from all his labor at which he toils under the sun?
Understanding the Sermon
This week I will begin with a new devotional study taken from the book of Ecclesiastes. I confess that lately I’ve felt like a skeptic. Most of the outlines are from a series of sermons I preached in 1993. But my concern in 2009 is it seems the nation literally crumbling before my very eyes, and the religious movements in America is changing so drastically in doctrine and truth that once was foundational beliefs are discarded. The American church is falling apart with more movement to the truth of Paul’s warnings to Timothy 2 Tim 4:3-4 For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.”
I realize more each day that we really don't have much time left. I don’t know who will call the nation to repentance and see the truth to present to lost people, but the Jesus many proclaim is a recreation of what we want Him to be.
This book is not so much a call to repentance as it is the revelation of the futility of the things of this world. Hold on to Jesus tight. He is your only strength and hope in these final days. The wisdom of Solomon in his day may allow us to continue our new years self examinations.
On the third day of the Feast of the Tabernacle in Jewish synagogues the book of Ecclesiastes is read. Some are surprised about that for so much of this book seems to be written by a discouraged skeptic. Instead of finding it uplifted and inspirational, many Christians question whether this should be even in the Bible. But I think many have missed the marvelous message as it is written from someone who saw that the promise of this life is vain.
Jeff MacNelly, creator of the comic strip, "Shoe" has skewered politics with just such distrust. He got the jaded view from a childhood experience with T.V. Howdy Doody show. "You have to be very cynical to be a cartoonist," MacNelly said, "In my case when I was 5, Clarabell the clown was my greatest hero. One day, low and behold, my father got a ticket for me to be in the Peanut Gallery at the Howdy Doody show. On Saturday I jumped into my sailor suit and went over there and Buffalo Bob. his voice still rises in wonder, selected me to help go look for Dally's uncle. We had to walk up to this machine that made snow. I stopped to look and on coast to coast TV, I started asking questions all about this snow machine. All of a sudden a big hand reaches out, pulls me out of the camera and says, "Now shut up kid" It was Clarabell. That planted the seed. That's how it works."
Someone said, that a realist is an idealist who has gone through the fire and has been purified. A skeptic is an idealist who has gone through the fire and has been burned. There is a difference. I believe that many experiences can make us better people and those same experience can make some bitter people. Which are you an idealist, a realist, or a skeptic?
The book of Ecclesiastes is written for all people and asks some of the most basic questions of life. He asks the question what is life all about really. It seems the writer has been completely disillusioned with it and concludes that life is just a great big nothing. Ecclesiastes is not a skeptical book at all in my opinion.
I believe it is a realistic book. I believe that Solomon was an idealist who had gone through the fire and has been purified. I believe this preacher/teacher is not one who is speaking from a natural man's point of view. I believe if we understand that message within the context of Solomon's life and situation it is as authoritative and inspired as the rest of the Bible. As we begin this study we have a greater understanding of life even as we evaluate some important things.
This search for meaning becomes the basis of this autobiographical presentation by the wisest man on earth at the time. (Before Jesus). Maybe it is wise to do self evaluation and ask ourselves what value is gained in this thing called life? There is amazing beauty all around us, but when we are at the center of it all it seems to come and go so quickly. We need that stable anchor in unsettled times. It’s good to remind ourselves that it will not be found in Washington even though we want to pray regular for our new president and elected officials.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Tues Jan 20
Verses Eccl 1:1-2
1 The words of the Teacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem:
2 "Meaningless! Meaningless!" says the Teacher. "Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless."
Understanding Solomon's Situation
Ecclesiastes is an interesting book and far different than most of other Scriptures. The author identifies himself, declares his theme and introduces the question addressed in this book. Aw we get an overview of the sermon from Solomon, Son of David, it is helpful to look at his situation. 1:1 The name Ecclesiastes is the Greek equivalent of Qoheleth - Hebrew word which means a convener of an assembly.
The church is sometimes called in Greek, Ecclesia, or the assembly, or called out ones, or the gathering. That is the same word as Ecclesiastes only this is the one that does the calling or the convening or the teaching of the assembly. Sometimes the word is translated the preacher or the teacher or the convener and that's how the book got its name.
There is no one who could be a Son of David as he is identified and have as much experience other than the King. He is the wealthiest, and the most powerful. He is the Preacher, the son of David, King in Jerusalem (v 12). There are three books he wrote, each in an entirely different style because I think he wrote them at different periods in his life. The Song of Solomon was written as a young man deeply in love. In his middle years many of his proverbs, and wisdom that came from God were complied into the book of the proverbs. But the book of Ecclesiastes was written, in my opinion, when he was old. I believe he strayed from some of his own wisdom he taught and came back to tell his story to all who will listen for their own good.
To remind ourselves of Solomon’s situation he started on the right foot. I Kings 3:5- 15 explain that Solomon started with a commendable attitude. "Lord help me."
If you had that opportunity to have any wish you could have, what would it be? The whole movie "Alladin" is the story of the magical lamp that could give anyone wishes. The conflict of good and evil continues because of the greed and wickedness of selfish hearts. God certainly knows the desires of men's hearts. Solomon was appointed as king and what he wanted more than anything else was the desire to be wise. He asked for wisdom. "I'm just a little child. I don't know how to take all the responsibilities that are needed to judge and rule over these people. Lord this job is more than I can handle I need you to help me and give me wisdom."
God said, "Solomon you could have asked for many things, you are a man who has asked rightly not for yourself as much as for the people you serve. Therefore Solomon, I will grant your request, but as an added measure and blessing I will also give you wealth and long life and honor and fame You will be the greatest of Kings if you walk in the ways and obey my statues and commands as David had done."
He had been given the gift-now it was up to him to do his part. What gifts has God given you? Your talents are also gifts from God, musical ability, money, management, hospitality, love, children, mechanical abilities, academic prowess, leader, friendly? They are given to you so you can walk in the ways of God in obedience and in love and commitment unto Him.
We see what Solomon did. I King 10:1-9 Queen of Sheba could not believe all the stories of this man's wisdom and wealth and greatness so she had to see for herself. She found it was even greater than the stories she heard.
A noted illustration was how he decided to find the true mother of two women claiming each the baby their theirs. He decided to have the baby divided into two. But the real mother protested to let the other woman have it. Solomon easily knew she was the real mother.
Solomon built fortresses and achieved great accomplishments; he was the king of peace in Israel. He built the temple of the Lord and there has been no time in history that temple matched the greatness of Solomon's temple. He loved and served the Lord in truth and obedience.
But beware, Solomon. You are so gifted that with time most people stumble and fall. After receiving so much for so long it is easy think you can do it on your own.
The gifts abilities and accomplishments of your life can also be the temptations for pride, self sufficiency and independence. Today offer thanks for the gifts your have received and give them for God to use.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Weds Jan 23
Verses Eccl. 1:4- 8 What does man gain from all his labor at which he toils under the sun?
Generations come and generations go, but the earth remains forever. The sun rises and the sun sets, and hurries back to where it rises. The wind blows to the south and turns to the north; round and round it goes, ever returning on its course. All streams flow into the sea, yet the sea is never full. To the place the streams come from, there they return again.
All things are wearisome, more than one can say. The eye never has enough of seeing, nor the ear its fill of hearing.
Understanding Solomon’s Subject
This theme certainly captures out attention. The King declares everything to be meaningless and vain. The question that is to be answered is “What does man gain from all his labor at which he toils under the sun?” After all Solomon received from the Lord with wealth and fame and power and love he isn't enjoying the excitement of life anymore. He wanted to gather the people around and as the assembly convener gives them a message which we will be looking at for the next several months and we look at different topics in the book. But the subject of his sermon is before us in these opening verses.
The subject of his sermon is what is the meaning and purpose of life? What is it all about? Solomon started as an idealist, seeing the glory of fame, the blessings of riches, the honor of wisdom, but now that God has shown him the folly of his way that doesn't appear to be as exciting anymore. Life has lost its luster. He is learning a very hard lesson and he want to warn his people. Vanity of vanity all is vanity.
Dr. Dan Block used to teach at Bethel. I remember him speaking on this book. He used the term soap bubbles, soap bubbles, all are soap bubbles. That's what life is. A soap bubble that appear and pop is gone is the explanation of the unfulfilled life. There is no substance in it.
Vanity means a vapor. It is here very quickly. Life is so fast and then gone. All things that men think are so important aren't without God. The important questions of life are not why type of car we drive or which neighborhood is the best to live in. But questions-Who is man? Why am I here? What happens after death? How can we know what is real? Solomon's subject is that things of this earth are really vanity, they are nothing.
Life is labor, work, toil. Those who work all their lives to make something of themselves soon discover it did not bring the happiness that they thought. People come and go and whether we work hard or don't really doesn't matter in the long run. There seems to be a monotonous routine that leads to nowhere and little excitement after awhile. A housewife’s routine can seem to leads to nowhere and making beds only to be messed up again, cleaning dishes only to do it the next day. Mopping floors are only to be muddied, vacuum dust over and over again. A man's work is from sun to sun; a woman's work is never done.
One man fished and rested and hunted. Others were telling him he was lazy. He asked why work was so important. "So you can earn more money. "Why?" To make a living, “for what purpose." To save for retirement, "Why?" so you can fish and hunt and rest. What do we have to show at the end of all our labors?
Jesus asked the question concerning labor, "What does it profit you to gain the whole world and lose your own soul" John 6:27,29 "Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of man will give you. On him God the Father has placed his seal of approval. Then they asked him, "What must we do to do the works God requires? Jesus answered, "the work of God is this: To believe in the one he has sent." Ah, the work and labor find meaning when labor isn't an end unto itself or an end to money, but a means to glorify God and be doing his ultimate will.
Verses 4-8 discuss elements of creation. The wind blows round and round, streams flow back and forth, and sun rises and sets, and over and over again without stopping. Everything is restless until he finds his joy in God. You see if nature glorifies God like the psalmist teaches then it is a means to an end. But when we are in a proper relationship to God by Jesus Christ, then nature is not monotonous it is marvelous. When we see we are in the plan, purpose and have a connection with the Almighty then He is glorified not in what we do, but as His children. IT is not in the responsibilities that God delights, but in our relationships. And in that relationship the preacher has something he want everyone to hear. It is his testimony.
Pastor Dale
Sermon nuggets Thurs Jan 22
Verses Eccl 1:9-11 What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.
10 Is there anything of which one can say, "Look! This is something new"? It was here already, long ago; it was here before our time.
11 There is no remembrance of men of old, and even those who are yet to come will not be remembered by those who follow.
Understanding Solomon’s Searching
From time to time I see God's blessing and my heart swells with gratitude. I remember the day I came to Stanchfield. That first week I thought I had no right to be here. The job is beyond me. I am not able to handle the situation and staff it is beyond human wisdom. Lord, please help me and guide me for you have called me beyond my capabilities. Through the years the prayers get shorter and there are less tears. As soon as I am tempted to say "I can handle it." boom something falls into my lap that is overwhelming. We are not as smart as we think. God keeps humbling us to make us continually dependent upon Him. Forgiveness and repentance and recommitment is a pattern needed in our Christian growth. Some people never re evaluate their life by God's standards. Only when things go badly do they cry unto God in humility and seek his wisdom and when things go well they don't bother him. That is the way we are. That's why we must daily come to Christ and commit to him all our ways, then he shall direct our paths. I hope that is part of your regular habit. As believers there is no other way.
Vs. 9-10 History doesn't even come up with anything new. Nothing is new under the sun. Everything is the same. Perhaps we see in our day change happening so fast, we can easily say the Old Testament skeptic hadn't lived in a day like ours, but after years one begins to ask so what? So what that telephones are coming in when you take them on your cell phone. Isaac, our youth/music pastor, was introducing me to the 21st century last Friday with a cell phone that does everything electronically, internet, emails, calendars, word processing and accounting program, music, games, and can even call people, text them or tell you where you should be going (GPS). Our world has the star war capabilities of blowing up the world several times with the touch of a computer button. But mortality rate is still 100%. You may change the pawns around the chess board of life a little longer but they are the same moves and the same outcome. We lose if this earthly life is all there is.
Saul didn't want to be king with all that responsibility. God choose him and saw his potential but after awhile it went to his head and his heart changed. He began serving himself and being disobedient to God. David was a man after God' own heart. But like humans before him he too had weaknesses when he failed to keep his eyes on his Shepherd and needed to learn over again that the power of the kingdom was not in his hands but in God's. Now King Solomon is on the throne the wisest of men, richly honored.
Solomon's lusts got the best of him. The Lord realized his heart is not true though wise, yet his wisdom was beginning to be self centered and not God centered. Solomon was departing from the close and needed commitment he desired early in his youth. Solomon could have the desires of his heart; what he wanted was wisdom of God for his people, now however, his heart was following false Gods and women. He was spending money to evil ends. It is in that context that we find an older Solomon preaching now. He had now lost the enjoyment of life.
vs11 When we are dead who remember us? Aren't there just few, very few who gain ancient notoriety and even today some one must be very important and special to be famous. Though not many can name the president 80 years ago unless we look him up and then we have to think even very hard who some of the vice presidents were in your own lifetime. How many can remember the names of their great grandparents on both sides, or even few the great-great grandparents? So 75 years from now Dale Cope will only be a picture on the wall of the church which will no longer be here if God tarries. Indeed, if Stanchfield is still in existence, then it will probably be remodeled again and pictures will be laid aside in some historical nook and cranny.
Then Solomon talked about subjects we'll respond to in the days to come, As Solomon set out to study wisdom and get education, to pursue pleasure, wine, women, song. As he lived the hedonist dream, he concluded it is all empty soap bubbles. Friends if there is one message I went away from in nursing home work, it is from their lips that taught me that lesson. What good is money in later years? Or work or fame, or all the earthly things we sought after? For those who had hope in God there is something to look forward to; Outside of God there was nothing but vanity.
Pastor Dale
Sermon Nuggets Fri . Jan 23
Verses Eccl 12:13-14 Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole of man.
14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.
Understanding Solomon’s Summary
People tell me that times have changed. We don't have to live by the old standards anymore. We live in a new day of morality, a new day of individual interpretation and understanding, a world where we have eliminated hell and punishment and judgment. But there is one who tried immorality, and pleasures, and work, and study and found himself completely empty.
This first seek of looking at Ecclesiastes I want to look at the conclusion to his sermon. It becomes the lens by which all other things are compared. After all the matter is heard, "Fear God and obey him." When Solomon tried to make sense out of life, tried to learn the lessons in life, after all is said and done there is only God who give us any meaning in life. The revelation is through his word and we have learned with the resurrection Lord Jesus Christ there is hope.
I would like to put Solomon's Summary in three important lessons of life. 1) Earthly pursuits are futile. Solomon has tried them all and they do not satisfy. All that you work for, that you seek in this life is indeed a lie. It is fruitless. It blocks your growth in God. Satan will seek to have you get off the path of real joy for temporary pleasure and in the end there is nothing. You have lost reward, lost meaning, lost purpose, lost reason for living. One only exists. He should know. He tried everything imaginable. Earthly pursuits are futile. All is soap bubbles, vanity, worthless.
2) The joy of the things of this earth come only when they are in proper perspective. At the end of most sections the teacher demonstrates I think a message that is often missed. 2:24-26 All that exists comes from the hand of God for without him who can eat or find enjoyment? " In other words all that exists was created by God for us, but we can only find enjoyment in all of it if we are in the right relationship with God. Remember the creator in the days of your youth and not when you are old and most of your life is gone. To the man who pleases him, God give wisdom knowledge and happiness, but to the sinner these gift of God are not enjoyed for only vapor, they are here and gone again.
This summary of Solomon in the context of the total message of his book is God is the only one that brings eternity to our temporary life. With Him nothing else really matters, where we work or what we do with our lives. Solomon’s message was this – “I in my youth humbly served God and sought wisdom, riches, and women and pleasure and all that life had to offer, but in my personal pursuits I left God behind. Now and see that since I've moved from his grace and goodness I had made a horrible mistake. Nothing is worth it without God and in God everything was made finds worth. Eat, drink and enjoyment are gifts from God but there is something else that is a gift form God-it is the enjoyment of his world. Sin may have its fleeting pleasure, but it is so short lived and it is vanity, a vapor, quickly passes.”
3) The third part of his summary is this. Remember that our ultimate accountability is to God. We must answer for what you do as a Christian and as a non Christian. I heard people rationalizing away disobedience. I have heard people try to convince me they don’t have to follow legalistic laws. I have heard people convince me why they don’t need church, or marry a Christian, or give money into the offering plate. There are lots of religious rituals that mean nothing to them. Why pretend? I agree. Only God knows the heart. But don't tell me, tell God. No one has to answer to me, but don't deceive yourself. The works of God is to believe in Jesus Christ and love God with all your heart and your mind and your soul. If God comes first then he gives you other things to enjoy, but if you lose them, no sweat- for God is in control. If however he is not the love of your life and you lose them then you have lost the love of your life.
Christian's worldview is to be built on biblical framework; it is learning to look at all of life with its science or art, or music, or literature, or T.V through the lenses colored by that which is eternal and true. I ask again what do those who do not know Christ do in situation of tragedy? Where is hope if life is nothing more than struggle to keep alive as long as you can have children to carry on name and leave wealth to? If God is the God of eternity and He has a life everlasting with him then everything finds meaning and purpose in seeking to glorify and honor God. Take it from one who knows. The old king had hard lesson to learn because he had left God. He discovered without Him, life is tasteless. With Him there is meaning. That message is what we will explore in the next few months.
George Beverly Shea wrote a hymn, “I'd rather have Jesus then silver or gold, I'd rather be His than have riches untold; I'd rather have Jesus than house or lands; I'd rather be led by His nail pierced hand that to be king of a vast domain or be held in sins' dread sway. I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today. I'd rather have Jesus than men's' applause, I'd rather be faithful to His dear cause; I'd rather have Jesus than world-wide fame, I'd rather be true to His holy name." Is that you desire?
Pastor Dale
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