Author The author identifies himself as the Preacher (or Teacher). While the book is technically anonymous, Solomon is the most likely candidate. Theme Everything is meaningless “under the sun,” and the only source of true meaning and joy is God. Background In the first chapter of Ecclesiastes, the author identifies himself as the Qoheleth (the …
We have now arrived at the Source of a content life. We have discovered that God alone, through Christ, is able granted us the satisfaction that our souls desire. However, if we stop merely at the Source of our satisfaction, then I believe that we will miss an opportunity to see the glory and goodness …
Continue reading The Unity of Ecclesiastes & Philippians | part four
Yet even if hedonism and religious legalism are both truly dead ends, we are forced to ask once more why people pursue these ends. Why do we relentlessly chase after the pleasures of hedonism to the degree of ignoring our God-given conscience? Why practice the asceticism found within religious legalism so that precious little happiness …
Continue reading The Unity of Ecclesiastes & Philippians | part three
A belief that I hold is that there are two paths to hell. If eternal judgment is your desired destination, rest assured that you have at least two choices to take: the road of the “sinner” or the road of the “religious.” You see, the only method of actually securing the eternal wrath of such …
Continue reading The Unity of Ecclesiastes & Philippians | part two
Back in 2012, I taught through the books of Ecclesiastes and Philippians together, attempting to show how they both present that true joy is only found in Christ. Below is part one of an essay I wrote to explain this connection. I pray that you will find it illuminating and helpful. The nature of joy …
Continue reading The Unity of Ecclesiastes & Philippians | part one
“For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another.” Titus 3:3 As with verse 11 of chapter two, the word “for” here indicates that this section is the reason and motivation behind the exhortations given …
B. C. Newton 