YEAR 1 WEEK 22: THE BOOK OF ECCLESIASTES

  1. Read the book of Ecclesiastes
  2. As you read, answer the following questions
    1. Who is likely the author of this book? 
    2. Remember what God declared to be wisdom and understanding in Job 28:28. What does the author say in chapter 1 of Ecclesiastes 1 that may show that he misunderstands what godly wisdom is. 
    3. What were some ways the author tried to find worth in this life. What did he discover about each?
    4. In 2:12-17, what does the author conclude about the foolish and the wise man? The good and wicked man (2:24-26)?
    5. In Chapter 3, the author focuses on timing and appropriate human occupation. What does he believe is the best behavior for humans?
    6. Chapter 3 appeared to conclude that laboring well was the best human occupation. However, Chapter 4 appears to contradict this. Describe these contradictions. 
    7. Ecclesiastes 5:7 begins to bring us into agreement with God’s definition of wisdom in Job. What do you believe the author means when he says to “fear God?”
    8. After reading Chapter 5, what do you believe the author considers to be the best course of action for people on earth?
    9. According to the author, who is better off than the wealthy, prosperous man, and why is this? (chapters 6-7)
    10. What does the author say is the benefit of wisdom over wealth? (chapter 7) What is the protection wisdom gives?
    11. Chapter 8-9 describe several enigmas in life. What are they?
    12. Why should a person work with all their might at what they are good at on earth?
    13. Ecclesiastes has at least 4 main discussions. 1. Rulers on earth, 2. death comes to all, 3. the value of wisdom, and 4. The wicked and the good have the same outcomes in life. 
    14. Given all he observes, what does the author conclude about how one ought to live to have the best, happiest life?