The benefits of wisdom are innumerable. In chapter 8, preacher of Ecclesiastes considers some of the real-life ways the wisdom of God works in daily life- from a difficult relationship to the deep questions of life, the wisdom of God settled in reverential awe of God brings transformation as we walk through life in a fallen world.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
THINKING: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
The Preacher presents two rhetorical questions at the beginning of chapter 8: “Who is like the wise? And who knows the interpretation of a thing?” What is the point of these rhetorical questions? How does this compare with Proverbs 2:1–4?
In verses 10-13, the Preacher returns to the concept of those who fear God. In 3:16; 4:1; and 5:8, he has already pointed out that people do not always get what they deserve in this life. What is the Preacher’s solution to the reality that sometimes evil seems to prevail and bad things happen to the righteous?
FEELING: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
How does the fear of the Lord relate to joy in and life for him? How has the modern use of the word “fear” influenced the way you understand the fear of the Lord?
Even though all is vanity, the Preacher commends joy to his readers in verse 15. How might the Preacher’s recommendation to pursue enjoyment relate to all that seems to be vanity?
DOING: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
The Preacher exhorts us against two extremes when dealing with authority figures who rule wickedly (v.3): hastily fleeing the situation or participating in an evil cause. What is a modern-day parallel to this? Give a personal example if possible. How did you/ would you respond in light of this verse?
How does living joyfully in a world of sin and suffering world commend the gospel to those around us? In addition to the Sunday Gathering, How can you celebrate Christ joyfully in a tangible way this week?
Some questions adapted from Knowing The Bible - Ecclesiastes
