From Vanity to Gravity: Preaching Ecclesiastes in Biblical-Theological Context

Abstract

This project consists of a series of sermons attempting to set Ecclesiastes in its biblical-theological context. Chapter 1 defines biblical theology and outlines the chapters that follow. Chapter 2 treats the prologue and epilogue of Ecclesiastes together. The remaining chapters cover several important themes including Qoheleth’s pursuit of pleasure, industry, wisdom, and wealth, along with the inner longing for justice he felt in an unjust world. The final chapter focuses on the commands to rejoice and remember in 11:7–12:8. Throughout, I have argued that the book is best understood as an extended meditation on the realities of living outside of Eden. Though sin introduces frustration into the world, the goodness of creation remains. People can still enjoy God’s creation and look forward to the day that it gives way to the new creation.