STUDY GUIDE

SUMMIT VIEW CHURCH

 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

At some point in your life, potentially multiple times, you’ll ask yourself, “Is this all
there is?!?” We have spent countless hours, exhausted our resources, and put all of
our efforts into climbing to the top of the proverbial mountain. Once we’ve reached
This guide has been specifically AUTHOR
the top, we often wonder, “Is this all I’ll ever have? Is this all there is worth living At the beginning of the book, the author
prepared with you in mind. It
for?” identifies himself as “son of David, king
will help life groups grow deeper
in Jerusalem.” Other than this, the book
together in their relationships with is largely anonymous with no specific
Have you been there?
God and one another. Each week name given. Jewish and Christian tradition
there are conversation starters to attribute the writing to Solomon. Even
Maybe that is when you start a new hobby. Find a new career. Find a new spouse.
help get things rolling, followed by though his name is never mentioned within
The list goes on. We find ourselves having an insatiable hunger and thirst for more.
questions for discussion based on the book, he is the leading candidate as
Yet when we get what we were seeking, we’re often left wanting.
the text. Each week wraps up with the one who penned it; especially when
personal applications and things to we take into consideration the author’s
Ecclesiastes is a book that puts on full display the utter futility of life. Yet at the description of his life and unrivaled wisdom
pray for to help you grow spiritually.
same time, it is not done in a manner that is Eeyore-ish, asking, “Why bother?!” The (Ecclesiastes 1:16), relentless pursuit of
book of Ecclesiastes teaches us that, despite our relentless pursuits, we are to live pleasure (2:3), empire building (2:4) and
We realize you may not be able
a life of faith and live life to its fullest, for that is God’s intent for us. We are to enjoy unequaled wealth (2:7).
to get to every question. Pick the
this life and its pleasures as gifts from God.
ones that would best work for your As we study the book of Ecclesiastes, it is
group. Obviously, you are more important to recognize that there are two
Ecclesiastes invites us to escape our rosy-colored view of self. Self-confident
than welcome to pull in other speakers within the book, not just one. One
lives protect us from cynicism and bitterness, knowing that wisdom, pleasure,
resources, or highlights from the of the speakers is referred to as the teacher
wealth, and all our other pursuits are insufficient in providing what we really need.
sermons each week. Our hope is (Qoheleth, a Hebrew term that means
Ecclesiastes invites us to know God is there. He is good and generous. Life makes “one who assembles a group”. Thus, why
that by participating in this study,
sense and is fulfilling only when we live with that understanding. most translations use the term preacher
you will have a firmer grasp on
or teacher). We see this person speak in
the Scriptures and a stronger
Ecclesiastes 1:12-12:7, occupying the bulk
connection with Christ.
of the book.

Note: Considering that we will The other person in the book speaks
be taking large sections of text about the preacher/teacher. We see them
each week, we understand time introduce the book and the speaker
is limited in your meeting time. in Ecclesiastes 1:1-11 and provide
Prayerfully consider using what an epilogue at the end of the book in
would work best for your group Ecclesiastes 12:8-14. This second speaker
and encourage personal study/ goes unnamed, but it is clear that he’s
speaking to his son (Ecclesiastes 12:12).
devotion for the other sections
The book could be characterized by having
that you may not be able to cover
a person who is speaking to his son about
in group time. the thoughts and lessons of the teacher.

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 1 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 2

 INTRODUCTION INTRODUCTION

MAJOR THEMES

VANITY. The word vanity (hevel) and the longer refrain vanity of vanities (hevel hevalim) OUTLINE OF THE BOOK
occurs 38 times. In other Old Testament books, the word hevel has a meaning of vapor,
breath, or breeze. Life does not last long despite one’s efforts to extend it. Life itself is I. Prologue (1:1–11)
also something elusive, we cannot fully grasp it or control it. Life is also something that
can be quite disorienting and perplexing. When the preacher uses this word, he can be II. The Pursuit of Vanities and Solution (1:4–2:26)
drawing from all these views. III. God’s Design for Time and Life (3:1-15)
ENJOYMENT. “There is nothing better for a man than that he should eat, drink, and IV. Wickedness and Oppression Under the Sun (3:16–4:16)
find enjoyment in his toil.” The “calls to enjoyment” are frequent (2:24; 3:12, 22; 5:18; V. Fear God (5:1–7)
8:15; 9:7–10). The Preacher encourages us to enjoy the life God has given us. That is the
VI. Life “Under the Sun” (5:8–8:15)
best course of action for us.
a. Futility of Suffering (5:8-20)
TOIL. Frequently, the Preacher poses a question asking a thematic question (1:3; 3:9; b. Futility of Riches (6:1-12)
5:16): “What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the sun?” along with
other occurrences of the word gain in 2:11, 13, 15; 3:19; 6:8, 11. No matter how much c. Wisdom v. Folly (7:1-14)
we strive and make an effort, all that we receive is much like the wind, something we d. Limitations of Wisdom (7:15-24)
cannot control, nor something we can eternally hold onto.
e. The Heart of the Problem: Sin (7:25–29)
UNDER THE SUN. This phrase is used regularly in the Preacher’s lesson, referring to f. Foolish authorities v. Godly Authority (8:1-15)
a point of time, not necessarily a geographical description. “It’s a way of saying that VII. Summary of the Preacher’s Conquest (8:16-9:10)
for as long as the earth lasts, in this period of time, this is how things are. This side of
eternity, life is a breath.” (Living Life Backward by David Gibson, page 28.) VIII. Lessons from Wisdom (9:11-11:8)
IX. Instructions for the Young (11:9-12:7)
X. The Epilogue (12:8–14)
PURPOSE

The Preacher’s message is this: Life is difficult and then you die. Ultimately there
is no meaning in life. We can’t find meaning in wisdom because we can’t even SUPPLEMENTAL RESOURCES
discern the time in order to say the right thing at the right time or do the right thing
at the right time. Therefore, seize the day. Video: The Bible Project – Ecclesiastes Overview
Tremper Longman suggests that the book of Ecclesiastes is “an idol buster.” Book: Living Life Backward by David Gibson
Ecclesiastes teaches us that if we try to find the meaning of life in things such as
wisdom, pleasure, wealth, work, etc. they will ultimately let us down. They are Family Book: Golly’s Folly: The Prince Who Wanted It All Eleazar & Rebekah Ruiz
merely false gods. Ecclesiastes encourages us to put God first and when we do,
everything else finds its proper place in life. The book aims to show that there is no Commentary: Why Everything Matters: The Gospel in Ecclesiastes by Philip Ryken
contradiction between living life to its fullest and living a life of obedience to God.
Commentary: Recovering Eden by Zack Eswine

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 1 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 2

 1 HEVEL HEVEL 1

INTRODUCTION READ & DISCUSS

W E E K ONE : E CCLE S IASTE S 1 -3 :1 5 READ ECCLESIASTES 1:1-11.

Much of what we find within Ecclesiastes is not necessarily a list of imperatives Q. These verses give the notion that nothing ever really changes in life. Do you
(statements on how to live), but rather an honest description of how we experience agree?
our time on earth. Within this section of the book, the Preacher communicates to _____________________________________________________________________
us how life is nothing but a brief (yet repetitive) blip on the radar while we seek to
find meaning in countless things. Ultimately, only in God can we find our lives to be _____________________________________________________________________
satisfying and fulfilling.
Follow Up: If the Preacher’s words are true, do you find it liberating or frustrating
It is important for us to keep in mind that while we discuss and reflect upon the to know that life is repetitive?
futility of life according to the Preacher’s words, we also have redemption and _____________________________________________________________________
hope in Christ. _____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

Q. In verse 11, the Preacher communicates that our lives will eventually fade from
MAIN IDEA memory. How does that make you feel?
_____________________________________________________________________
While life on this side of heaven seems futile at _____________________________________________________________________
times, it is still a gift from God.
_____________________________________________________________________

Follow Up: How does this impact the way you think about the legacy you wish to
CONVERSATION STARTER
leave? Hint: See Ecclesiastes 2:18-19 for some insight.
_____________________________________________________________________
Q. A word that you will find repetitiously within this section of text is vanity. What _____________________________________________________________________
does it mean? What would be a modern-day equivalent for this word?
_____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ Q. Have you seen someone (famous, historical, or modern day) arrive at a similar
______________________________________________________________________ conclusion that we should live as described in these verses? What were they like?
______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 3 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 4

 1 HEVEL HEVEL 1

READ ECCLESIASTES 2:1-11. Q. Why is it important for us to understand that it is God who has created time,
purpose, and a season for everything? How does this allow you to live more
Q. Consider the pleasures listed by the Preacher in Ecclesiastes 2:2-11 (jokes, confidently?
alcohol, art, nature, money/possessions, music, sex, affirmation, work). How does ______________________________________________________________________
the Preacher affirm and warn about our partaking in these pleasures?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ Q. Look at Ecclesiastes 3:11-13. This could be seen as a good summary of the
entire book of Ecclesiastes. What is the Preacher seeking to communicate?
Q. Can you think of a time where you felt you had gained what you set out for, yet
only found in time that you were dissatisfied again? What did you do? ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ Follow Up: What does it mean that God has “set eternity into man’s heart?”
Q. Satisfaction and contentment are ultimately gifts from God. Compare the ______________________________________________________________________
comment made in Ecclesiastes 2:24 and Philippians 4:11-12. Do you see any ______________________________________________________________________
connections?
Follow Up: Do you see all the pleasures that we enjoy as God’s gift to you?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
READ ECCLESIASTES 3:1-8.

Q. Of the 14 comparisons found within verses 2-8, which one resonates with you
most right now? Why?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

Follow Up: Which one provides the biggest challenge?

______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 5 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 6

1 HEVEL HEVEL 1

A Time for Everything CONNECTING THE DOTS PERSONAL APPLICATION & REFLECTION

There is a time for everything, Throughout these three chapters of The word translated to Preacher in Ecclesiastes refers to “the gathering or
and a season for every activity Ecclesiastes, the Preacher wrestles assembly of a community of people.” Therefore, many see the words of the King
under the heavens:
with the experience each of us faces of Israel, son of David (Ecclesiastes 1:1) being like a pastor in a church preaching
a time to be born on earth—a striving and working for to a people. One could read the book of Ecclesiastes as if it were a sermon to a
and a time to die, satisfaction. Yet, the only true certainty church. If Ecclesiastes is like a sermon, how does this sermon differ from the kind
a time to plant we all have is that there is death at the of sermon that you are used to hearing? How can this sermon be one that God
and a time to uproot, end waiting for us all. appointed for you to listen to and hear at this given point in time?
a time to kill
and a time to heal, Q. Based upon what we’ve read, heard, As we start this brief, but deep, five-week study, begin to reflect upon what God
a time to tear down and studied, what strategies do you may be teaching you. We will revisit this at the conclusion of our study.
and a time to build, think people (including yourself) use to
avoid facing the reality of death?
a time to weep
and a time to laugh, __________________________________
a time to mourn __________________________________
and a time to dance,
__________________________________
a time to scatter stones
and a time to gather them, __________________________________
a time to embrace, and a time __________________________________
to refrain from embracing,
__________________________________
a time to search
and a time to give up,
Q. According to the Preacher, why do
a time to keep you think the idea of embracing and
and a time to throw away, understanding our death allows us a
a time to tear perspective to enjoy life?
and a time to mend,
__________________________________
a time to be silent
and a time to speak, __________________________________
a time to love __________________________________
and a time to hate,
__________________________________
a time for war
and a time for peace. __________________________________
__________________________________
Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 __________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 7 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 8

 2 LIFE UNDER THE SUN LIFE UNDER THE SUN 2

INTRODUCTION READ & DISCUSS

W E E K TWO: E CCLE S IASTE S 4 -5 :7 READ ECCLESIASTES 4-1:3.

It doesn’t take long to look around and realize something isn’t quite right. Romans Q. Notice the use of the word oppression repeatedly. What comes to mind when
8:19-23 even tells us that creation groans under the weight of sin. It’s not supposed you hear that word?
to be this way! When God created the world and everything in it, He said it was _____________________________________________________________________
good. However, when sin entered the world, everything began to disintegrate.
_____________________________________________________________________
In our study time this week, we’re going to compare the observations made by the
Preacher in Ecclesiastes with God’s redemptive plan. Follow Up: You have heard the saying absolute power corrupts absolutely; but
this is not God’s way. Look at God’s command in Genesis 1:26-31. God’s plan for
leadership fosters the betterment of society. Read the following Scriptures and
discuss how God sees oppression, suffering, and our role as His followers:

MAIN IDEA • Psalm 146:5-9

• Isaiah 1:17
God’s plan for us leads to fulfilment and flourishing; • Proverbs 14:31
man’s way may be temporarily pleasing, but ultimately • Exodus 22:21-27
leads to frustration and disappointment. _____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
CONVERSATION STARTER
Q. How should we act in light of this truth? What does it reveal about God, and
Q. We’ve all started projects with an end goal in mind; an incredible picture of how what does it show you about the disintegration brought into the world with sin?
we want it to be. Then reality sets in. Have you ever had a “Pinterest fail”? Share it _____________________________________________________________________
and laugh with your group.
_____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Bonus: Can you think of any Scriptures that show us Jesus’ heart toward
______________________________________________________________________
oppression (think of His interactions with individuals who were suffering)?
______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

E C C L E S I A S T E S S T U D Y G U I D E - 39 EECCCCLLEESSI IAASSTTEESS SSTTUUDDYY GGUUI IDDEE -- 140

 2 LIFE UNDER THE SUN LIFE UNDER THE SUN 2

READ ECCLESIASTES 4:4-12. that need to be given up for the READ ECCLESIASTES 5:1-7.
betterment of others?
Q. Culture tells us to strive to get ahead _________________________________ Q. How do you approach God? Are you quick to speak, but slow to listen to what
and encourages us to always be looking He has to say? Do you always come to Him with an agenda? When we come to Him
for the next big thing. What does Jesus _________________________________
this way, we are in danger of missing so much! Read Isaiah 6:1-7 and then re-read
say about this? Read Matthew 6:19-20 _________________________________ Ecclesiastes 5:1-7. How might Isaiah’s response to being in the presence of God
and Luke 12:16-21. Why do you think change your attitude when you come to Him?
it’s so challenging to trust God with READ ECCLESIASTES 4:13-16.
______________________________________________________________________
our “treasures”? What does that reveal
about our hearts? Q. Honor and position are meaningless ______________________________________________________________________
__________________________________ if you are a fool. We should strive to be
wise. The book of James tells us that Q. How can you foster an attitude of reverence toward God? What do you
__________________________________ wisdom comes from God and that He think of when you think of Him? Do you think of God as a friend, father, or
__________________________________ gives it freely to those who ask without unapproachable? Do you think of Him as far away and removed from your life?
reproach (James 1:5). Do you think Or do you know Him as holy, loving, faithful, merciful, and steadfast? A.W. Tozer
__________________________________
about asking God for wisdom? How says, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important
__________________________________ is God’s wisdom different from the thing about us.” It changes how we approach Him. Spend some time in your group
__________________________________ wisdom of the world? talking through what God says about Himself in Exodus 34:6-7.
_________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________
Q. Read Colossians 3:24. Our reward
_________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________
comes from God, but we have to wait
for it. Why is it so hard to wait? What _________________________________
can you do to help yourself and those
around you endure? Q. Proverbs 1:7 says the fear of the
__________________________________ Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but PERSONAL APPLICATION & REFLECTION
fools despise wisdom and instruction.
__________________________________ Growing in wisdom will not happen by Spend time praying for those in your life who don’t yet know Jesus
__________________________________ accident. In Matthew 7, Jesus tells the Christ as their Savior. Ask God for boldness to share the Gospel with
disciples to ask, seek, and knock and them. Pray that your Life Group would be a place that is inviting to those
__________________________________
the door will be opened to them. What who don’t have a personal relationship with the Lord and that He would
__________________________________ is your plan to grow in wisdom and use you to expand His Kingdom. Pray for hearts that are enlightened
__________________________________ understanding? If you don’t have one, to the hope of His promises and truth and that as a group and as
will you consider making a plan today? individuals, you would be lights in the darkness. Don’t forget to pray
Q. Read Philippians 2:1-8. What was _________________________________ through what you’ve learned this week. Ask God to give you eyes to see
Jesus’ attitude toward His position? others like He does; for willingness to use your position and possessions
_________________________________
How is this different than what you see for others; for a heart that seeks wisdom; and reverence for who God is.
in Ecclesiastes 4:4-6? What is similar? _________________________________
Are you clinging to rights and privileges _________________________________
ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 11 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 12
 3 THE FUTILITY OF LIFE THE FUTILITY OF LIFE 3

INTRODUCTION CONVERSATION STARTER

W E E K TH R E E : E CCLE S IASTE S 5 :8 -8 :1 7 Q. Can you think of something from your life (professional, hobby, etc.) that you
poured countless hours and resources into, only to find out that much of what you
Within this next large section of Ecclesiastes, the Preacher takes time to dethrone accomplished was fairly useless?
all the things we quickly elevate to the ultimate in life. Wealth, wisdom, political ______________________________________________________________________
involvement- while all these things are fine within their proper context, they make
really terrible gods. Whether we experience success in these, or suffer great loss, ______________________________________________________________________
our role is to remember that it is God who gives and takes away. Regardless of
READ & DISCUSS
what we experience, we must remember that God is with us.

READ ECCLESIASTES 5:8-6:12.

MAIN IDEA Within this section, the Preacher speaks to the ills of being consumed with wealth.
Pursuing material gain is ultimately unsatisfying and the labor eventually comes to
nothing when we reach the end of our lives. Note: money/wealth isn’t inherently a
Put your faith in something that bad thing; but the relentless pursuit of it is the problem being spoken of here.
is not under the sun.
Q. What is the consequence spoken about in verse 12 for the one who pursues
wealth?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

“Ecclesiastes was written to smash Q. What is the end result of the individual who makes this their sole focus in life
into tiny pieces our idea that we can (see verses 5:15-16)?
be like God. We aspire to have it all,
__________________________________________________________________
know it all, do it all, achieve it all, be
happy forever, have all the answers, __________________________________________________________________
never be left scratching our head, and
Q. Connect the life application from these verses in connection to what Jesus
be remembered by all for all time.
teaches in Matthew 6:19-21.
That’s what we hope for.”
__________________________________________________________________
– David Gibson, Living Life Backwards __________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 3 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 4

 3 THE FUTILITY OF LIFE THE FUTILITY OF LIFE 3

Q. Ecclesiastes 6:7 states that “all the toil of man is for his mouth, and yet the soul READ ECCLESIASTES 7:15-29.
is not satisfied.” Why does our physical labor allow us to feed and clothe ourselves,
yet not have the ability to satisfy our souls? What is missing? Q. Verses 15-18 describe a reality that
__________________________________________________________________ is often highlighted in the Scriptures
(Jeremiah 12:1; Psalm 37:3, 73:30, 94:3;
__________________________________________________________________ Job 12:6, 21:13)—the righteous suffer
__________________________________________________________________ while the wicked prosper. Would you
agree with this statement? How does it
__________________________________________________________________
make you feel that the Bible validates this
reality?
READ ECCLESIASTES 7:1-14.
__________________________________
Q. Compare Ecclesiastes 7:1 with Proverbs 22:1. What piece of wisdom is being __________________________________
communicated here?
__________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

Follow Up: If you could choose one or the other, which would you pick-riches or a Q. In this section of the text, the Scriptures
good reputation? Why? don’t paint a particularly positive picture
of humanity (see verses 20 and 29). Is there
__________________________________________________________________ anywhere in the Bible where we find a similar teaching?
__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

Q. Verse 2 of this chapter begins to drive home one of the main ideas of the book __________________________________________________________________
of Ecclesiastes—to live your life in light of your last days. How should having a
good understanding of our mortality impact the way we live today? Follow Up: Despite all of that, how does God relate to humanity?

__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 15 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 16

 3 THE FUTILITY OF LIFE THE FUTILITY OF LIFE 3

PERSONAL
READ ECCLESIASTES 8.

O LORD,
APPLICATION/
Q. Verses 1-9 speak to one’s level of engagement with civil authority. Does this
teaching align with what we read elsewhere? (Consider Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Peter make me know my end
REFLECTION
2:13-16). and what is the
__________________________________________________________________ measure of my days;
let me know
__________________________________________________________________
Read Psalm 39:4-7 (inset). Arno how fleeting I am!
Q. In your own words, summarize the main point of the Preacher’s lesson in Gaebelein, a former prominent
verses 10-13. Behold, you have
Bible teacher, says, “Read this
made my days
__________________________________________________________________ psalm frequently; it will bring
a few handbreadths,
__________________________________________________________________ blessing to heart and life.”
and my lifetime
__________________________________________________________________ is as nothing
This Psalm, much like the book
before you.
Q. The phrase “eat, drink, and be joyful” is found in verse 15. What do you think this of Ecclesiastes, challenges us to
means? Is it a good approach to life? think about the brevity of life. Surely all mankind
__________________________________________________________________ While the world around us would stands as
like us to ignore this fact or delay a mere breath!
__________________________________________________________________
the inevitable, as believers we Selah
__________________________________________________________________ can learn much by thinking
about life, death, and eternity Surely a man goes
and ultimately find meaning. about as a shadow!
Surely for nothing
Through reflecting on all of they are in turmoil;
this, we soon discover the real man heaps up wealth
meaning of our existence must and does not know
be in relationship to our God. who will gather!

This week, spend time turning to And now, O Lord,

the only One who can, and has for what do I wait?
brought about meaning to you My hope is in you.
and your life.
Psalm 39:4-7

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 17 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 18

 4 DEATH IS CERTAIN DEATH IS CERTAIN 4

INTRODUCTION CONVERSATION STARTER

W E E K FOUR : Q. What strategies do people (including yourself) use to distract themselves or

E CCLE S IASTE S 9 -1 1 attempt to control the uncertainties in life?
______________________________________________________________________
Depending on your personality, if
______________________________________________________________________
we were to look at your schedule,
how much of it is planned out? How ______________________________________________________________________
many of you put together an annual
READ & DISCUSS
plan of what you would like your
life, finances, family, and career to
look like? It’s fairly common for us
READ ECCLESIASTES 9.
to daydream about the future and
then try to reverse-engineer what it
Q. In your own words, summarize the Preacher’s teaching in verses 1-3.
would take to get there.
__________________________________________________________________
While planning and strategizing __________________________________________________________________
are never just a task for naught,
we often over-estimate what we’re Follow Up: Do you see the tone of the Preacher’s message as bleak? Or something
able to do and accomplish because else?
ultimately, we are not in control. The
__________________________________________________________________
only thing we know for certain that
will happen is death. The rest is up __________________________________________________________________
in the air.
Q. After speaking of the one certainty we all face (death), the Preacher reminds us
This is the lesson the Preacher that life is superior to death (see verse 4). He then speaks to finding things to enjoy
further develops in our study of in this life in verses 7-10. What are some things you could actively seek to enjoy
Ecclesiastes. today and tomorrow?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

MAIN IDEA Q. In verses 13-18, the Preacher shares a parable about a poor wise man. What
lesson is he trying to convey by telling us this story?
We are not as in control of our lives as __________________________________________________________________
we think we are.
__________________________________________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 19 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 20

 4 DEATH IS CERTAIN DEATH IS CERTAIN 4

READ ECCLESIASTES 10. Q. According to verse 20, what is a reason that we should be careful and cautious
in how we carry ourselves and speak about others?
Chapter 10 contains proverbs regarding __________________________________________________________________
wisdom and foolishness. The Preacher
points out observations that he has __________________________________________________________________
made and provides some everyday life __________________________________________________________________
application. This chapter could be read
__________________________________________________________________
like the book of Proverbs.
READ ECCLESIASTES 11.
Q. How does the Preacher describe
a wise man in comparison to a fool in Q. In verses 1-6 of this chapter, the Preacher speaks to the uncertainty we have in
verses 12-15? Where else in Scripture being able to control circumstances as they arise. Yet, he speaks fairly clearly about
do we see a similar teaching? (Hint: how we should handle our resources in light of all of this. What does he say? (Hint:
The fool destroys themselves with their Live openhandedly and generously.)
foolishness.)
__________________________________________________________________
________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
________________________________
________________________________ Q. Is it a new idea to you that God has actually commanded us to enjoy the things
________________________________ He has given us (Ecclesiastes 11:9)?
__________________________________________________________________
Q. In verse 19, the Preacher speaks highly of bread, wine, and money, even __________________________________________________________________
making the statement that “money answers everything”. Yet earlier in his lesson,
__________________________________________________________________
he states that money can never satisfy (see Ecclesiastes 5:10). Is he contradicting
himself here? Why or why not? __________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Follow Up: What subsequent warning does the Preacher give in light of charging
__________________________________________________________________
us to enjoy life?
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 21 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 22

 4 DEATH IS CERTAIN DEATH IS CERTAIN 4

CONNECT THE DOTS

Q. How do the lessons taught by the Preacher in chapters 9, 10, and 11 line up with
the instruction that James gives us in James 4:13-17? How about Proverbs 16:3,
9, 19:21?
____________________________
____________________________
____________________________ Trust in the LORD and do good;
dwell in the land
____________________________
and befriend faithfulness.
____________________________
____________________________ Delight yourself in the LORD,
____________________________ and he will give you
the desires of your heart.
____________________________
Commit your way to
PERSONAL
the LORD; trust in him,
and he will act.
APPLICATION/
He will bring forth your
REFLECTION righteousness as the light, and
your justice as the noonday.
Ultimately, the reason we can
The steps of a man are
release control of things in our
lives is because God is good and established by the LORD,
does good. In all the uncertainty when he delights in his way;
we may face in life, we can hold
fast to these truths found within though he fall, he shall not be
Psalm 37. cast headlong, for the LORD
upholds his hands.
Take some time reflecting,
praying, and pleading these Psalm 37
words to God and ask Him to
make these truths evident in
your life.
ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 23 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 24
 5 THE END THE END 5

INTRODUCTION READ & DISCUSS

W E E K F IVE : E CCLE S IASTE S 1 2 READ ECCLESIASTES 12.

In a very poetic way, the end of the message found in Ecclesiastes is very poignant Q. What is the Preacher encouraging us to do when he says, “Remember your
to our own end here on this earth. The message of Ecclesiastes isn’t necessarily creator”?
the idea that nothing matters, but in light of how the book ends, it’s that everything ______________________________________________________________________
matters. Ecclesiastes teaches us to live in light of this reality and stop ignoring
what’s coming towards us-death and judgement. For believers, this is something ______________________________________________________________________
that is not to be feared, but embraced, for we know what lies ahead. ______________________________________________________________________

We need to remember who God is, who we are, and how He has called us to live Follow Up: How can you go about remembering your creator on a daily basis?
before the life we have been given by God gets taken back by Him. It is with this ______________________________________________________________________
knowledge that Ecclesiastes encourages us to live in light of that day; enjoying
God, enjoying His gifts, and pointing others to live in a similar fashion. ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________

Q. In verses 2-8, the Preacher

metaphorically describes the aging
process. What images does he use
MAIN IDEA to describe an aging person? (Hint:
He’s speaking to a person’s eyes,
Fear God and obey His hands, back, teeth, ears, sleeplessness,
commandments. feebleness, and death.)
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________

CONVERSATION STARTER
_________________________________

Follow Up: How does this support the

Q. Does growing older always result in becoming wiser?
Preacher’s point about remembering
______________________________________________________________________ God in the days of your youth?
______________________________________________________________________ _________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ _________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ _________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 25 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 26

 5 THE END THE END 5

Q. Who is the “one Shepherd” spoken of in verse 11? Why are his words described Q. In verse 13, we are told the duty of every person is to fear God and keep His
as “goad” (sharp as nails)? (Note: A goad is a spiked stick used to drive animals.) commandments. What does this mean?
______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
Follow Up: According to the Preacher, what is the motivation for fearing God and
Follow Up: The Preacher’s words throughout this book have pushed us towards keeping His commandments? (See verse 14.)
satisfaction in God-not wealth, possessions, status, etc. Why are these words ______________________________________________________________________
painful to hear sometimes? During this study, has there been an area where you ______________________________________________________________________
found yourself being poked or prodded in ways you weren’t anticipating?
______________________________________________________________________ Follow Up: Can you think of other passages in the Bible that help us understand
______________________________________________________________________ what this means?

______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________
PERSONAL APPLICATION & REFLECTION
Q. Many scholars describe verses 9-12 as a mini commentary on the entire book. In
your own words, how would you provide a conclusion to the book of Ecclesiastes?
At the beginning of this study, we encouraged you to take note of some of the
__________________________ things you think that God may be using the book of Ecclesiastes to teach you. As
__________________________ you reflect upon the last five weeks, consider answering the following questions:
__________________________
• Has anything shifted in your thinking since the beginning?
__________________________
__________________________
• How has God used this book to deepen your faith?
__________________________
__________________________
• What was most surprising, intriguing, or challenging to you about Ecclesiastes?
__________________________
__________________________
• What are some next steps for you?
__________________________
__________________________
• What would look different in your life if you took the Preacher’s message to heart?
__________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 27 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 28

 NOTES NOTES

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 29 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 30

 NOTES NOTES

________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________

ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 29 ECCLESIASTES STUDY GUIDE - 30

SUMMIT VIEW CHURCH
7701 NE 182nd Avenue
Vancouver WA 98682
(360) 260-8300

summitview.net

© 2020 SUMMIT VIEW CHURCH