Ecclesiastes 9:13-10:20 // Lessons in Wisdom

 

In this passage, Solomon reflects on wisdom and folly. Writing in the form of Proverbs, he considers a number of ways that wisdom benefits us in life while pointing out how even a hint of foolishness brings ruin, overwhelming any good that has been achieved. How then should we live as Christians in pursuit of wisdom over folly in today's world?

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

THINKING: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.

  • This passage is full of short Proverbs that can seem disconnected. If you were to describe one major theme, what would it be?

  • In 10:2 the Preacher says, “A wise man’s heart inclines him to the right, but a fool’s heart to the left.” Read Exodus 15:6 and 15:12; Psalms 16:11 and 17:7; and Isaiah 41:10. In light of these verses, what do the references to “right” and “left” mean in Ecclesiastes 10:2?

FEELING: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD

  • In line with 10:2, Proverbs 4:23 says, “Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.” What does it mean to “keep your heart?”

DOING: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)

  • How can you practically implement the applications given in the Sunday Sermon?

    1. Wisdom is often ignored, so pursue it (9:13-18)

    2. Wisdom is easily contaminated, so guard it (10:1-3)

    3. Wisdom is calm under pressure, so resist rash decisions (10:4-7)

    4. Wisdom is patient, so be discerning (10:8-11)

    5. Wisdom is thoughtful with words, so tame the tongue (10:12-20)

Some questions adapted from Knowing The Bible - Ecclesiastes