Ecclesiastes 5
BSB1 Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Draw near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. 2 Do not be quick to speak, and do not be hasty in your heart to utter a word before God. After all, God is in heaven and you are on earth. So let your words be few. 3 As a dream comes through many cares, so the speech of a fool comes with many words. 4 When you make a vow to God, do not delay in fulfilling it, because He takes no pleasure in fools. Fulfill your vow. 5 It is better not to vow than to make a vow and not fulfill it. 6 Do not let your mouth cause your flesh to sin, and do not tell the messenger that your vow was a mistake. Why should God be angry with your words and destroy the work of your hands? 7 For as many dreams bring futility, so do many words. Therefore, fear God. 8 If you see the oppression of the poor and the denial of justice and righteousness in the province, do not be astonished at the matter; for one official is watched by a superior, and others higher still are over them. 9 The produce of the earth is taken by all; the king himself profits from the fields. 10 He who loves money is never satisfied by money, and he who loves wealth is never satisfied by income. This too is futile. 11 When good things increase, so do those who consume them; what then is the profit to the owner, except to behold them with his eyes? 12 The sleep of the worker is sweet, whether he eats little or much, but the abundance of the rich man permits him no sleep. 13 There is a grievous evil I have seen under the sun: wealth hoarded to the harm of its owner, 14 or wealth lost in a failed venture, so when that man has a son there is nothing to pass on. 15 As a man came from his mother’s womb, so he will depart again, naked as he arrived. He takes nothing for his labor to carry in his hands. 16 This too is a grievous evil: Exactly as a man is born, so he will depart. What does he gain as he toils for the wind? 17 Moreover, all his days he eats in darkness, with much sorrow, sickness, and anger. 18 Here is what I have seen to be good and fitting: to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in all the labor one does under the sun during the few days of life that God has given him—for this is his lot. 19 Furthermore, God has given riches and wealth to every man, and He has enabled him to enjoy them, to accept his lot, and to rejoice in his labor. This is a gift from God. 20 For a man seldom considers the days of his life, because God keeps him occupied with the joy of his heart.
Study Notes — Ecclesiastes 5
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Ecclesiastes 5
- Themes from Ecclesiastes 5
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Ecclesiastes 5
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
In Ecclesiastes 5, the Preacher begins by warning against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power, stating that 'guard your steps when you go to the house of God' (Ecclesiastes 5:1). He encourages the reader to approach God with humility and reverence, and to avoid making rash vows or speaking carelessly (Ecclesiastes 5:2-7). The Preacher also laments the oppression of the poor by the rich and powerful, and notes that true fulfillment is not found in wealth or material possessions, but in a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands (Ecclesiastes 5:8-20). Throughout the chapter, the Preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life of integrity and reverence for God, and of finding true fulfillment in a relationship with Him.
Context for the Chapter
Ecclesiastes 5 is part of the larger book of Ecclesiastes, which is a wisdom book in the Old Testament. The book is attributed to King Solomon, who wrote it in his old age, reflecting on the meaning and purpose of life. The chapter fits into the larger narrative of the book, which explores the themes of the fleeting nature of earthly pleasures, the importance of reverence for God, and the search for true fulfillment and meaning in life. The chapter also connects to the broader biblical narrative, which emphasizes the importance of living a life of obedience to God's commands and finding true fulfillment in a relationship with Him.
Heart Application
As we read Ecclesiastes 5, we are reminded of the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence. We are encouraged to examine our own hearts and lives, and to ask ourselves whether we are pursuing the fleeting pleasures of this world, or seeking true fulfillment in a relationship with God. We are called to live a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands, and to find our true identity and purpose in Him.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Ecclesiastes 5 teaches us that true fulfillment is not found in wealth or material possessions, but in a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands. We are encouraged to approach God with humility and reverence, and to find our true identity and purpose in Him. As the Preacher says in Ecclesiastes 5:1, we must 'guard our steps when we go to the house of God' and 'draw near to listen' rather than offering 'the sacrifice of fools'.
Voices from the Church
“The house of God is not a place for careless chatter or frivolous behavior, but a place for reverence and worship.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The sacrifice of fools is not just a matter of outward actions, but of the heart. We must examine our own hearts and motives, and ensure that we are offering sacrifices that are pleasing to God.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction: The Importance of Reverence for God (Ecclesiastes 5:1-7) — The Preacher emphasizes the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence, and warns against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power.
- The Oppression of the Poor (Ecclesiastes 5:8-12) — The Preacher laments the oppression of the poor by the rich and powerful, and notes that true fulfillment is not found in wealth or material possessions, but in a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands.
- The Futility of Wealth and Power (Ecclesiastes 5:13-17) — The Preacher notes that wealth and power are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying, and that true fulfillment is found in a relationship with God.
- Conclusion: The Importance of Simplicity and Obedience (Ecclesiastes 5:18-20) — The Preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands, and encourages the reader to find true fulfillment in a relationship with God.
- Final Thoughts: The Search for True Fulfillment (Ecclesiastes 5:18-20) — The Preacher concludes the chapter by emphasizing the importance of seeking true fulfillment and meaning in life, and encourages the reader to look to God as the ultimate source of satisfaction and joy.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- Ecclesiastes 5 teaches us that God is sovereign over all things, including the rise and fall of nations and the distribution of wealth and power.
- The Importance of Reverence for God
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence, and warns against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power.
- The Futility of Human Pursuits
- The Preacher notes that human pursuits, such as the accumulation of wealth and power, are ultimately fleeting and unsatisfying.
- The Importance of Simplicity and Obedience
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of living a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands, and encourages the reader to find true fulfillment in a relationship with God.
Lessons from Ecclesiastes 5
- The Importance of Reverence for God — We learn from Ecclesiastes 5 that approaching God with humility and reverence is essential for a healthy and meaningful relationship with Him.
- The Dangers of Idolatry and Empty Pursuits — The chapter warns us against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power, and encourages us to seek true fulfillment in a relationship with God.
- The Importance of Simplicity and Obedience — We learn from Ecclesiastes 5 that living a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands is essential for finding true fulfillment and meaning in life.
- The Futility of Human Pursuits — The Preacher notes that human pursuits, such as the accumulation of wealth and power, are ultimately fleeting and unsatisfying.
- The Search for True Fulfillment — The chapter encourages us to seek true fulfillment and meaning in life, and to look to God as the ultimate source of satisfaction and joy.
Themes from Ecclesiastes 5
- The Futility of Earthly Pursuits — Ecclesiastes 5 teaches us that human pursuits, such as the accumulation of wealth and power, are ultimately fleeting and unsatisfying.
- The Importance of Reverence for God — The chapter emphasizes the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence, and warns against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power.
- The Search for True Fulfillment — The Preacher encourages us to seek true fulfillment and meaning in life, and to look to God as the ultimate source of satisfaction and joy.
- The Importance of Simplicity and Obedience — We learn from Ecclesiastes 5 that living a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands is essential for finding true fulfillment and meaning in life.
- The Sovereignty of God — The chapter teaches us that God is sovereign over all things, including the rise and fall of nations and the distribution of wealth and power.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways in which we can approach God with humility and reverence, as encouraged in Ecclesiastes 5:1?
- How can we avoid the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power, as warned against in Ecclesiastes 5:1-7?
- What are some ways in which we can live a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands, as encouraged in Ecclesiastes 5:18-20?
- How can we find true fulfillment and meaning in life, as encouraged in Ecclesiastes 5:18-20?
- What are some ways in which we can apply the teachings of Ecclesiastes 5 to our own lives and circumstances?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction: The Importance of Reverence for God (Ecclesiastes 5:1-7)
| Ecclesiastes 5:1 | The Preacher emphasizes the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence, and warns against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power. |
| Ecclesiastes 5:2 | The Preacher notes that 'God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few' (Ecclesiastes 5:2). |
| Ecclesiastes 5:3 | The Preacher warns against making rash vows or speaking carelessly, and encourages the reader to 'fear God' (Ecclesiastes 5:3-7). |
2. The Oppression of the Poor (Ecclesiastes 5:8-12)
| Ecclesiastes 5:8 | The Preacher laments the oppression of the poor by the rich and powerful, and notes that true fulfillment is not found in wealth or material possessions, but in a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands. |
| Ecclesiastes 5:9 | The Preacher notes that 'the profit of the earth is taken by all' (Ecclesiastes 5:9), but that true fulfillment is found in a relationship with God. |
| Ecclesiastes 5:10 | The Preacher warns against the dangers of covetousness and the love of money, and encourages the reader to be content with what they have (Ecclesiastes 5:10-12). |
3. The Futility of Wealth and Power (Ecclesiastes 5:13-17)
| Ecclesiastes 5:13 | The Preacher notes that wealth and power are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying, and that true fulfillment is found in a relationship with God. |
| Ecclesiastes 5:14 | The Preacher warns against the dangers of trusting in wealth and power, and encourages the reader to trust in God instead (Ecclesiastes 5:14-17). |
4. Conclusion: The Importance of Simplicity and Obedience (Ecclesiastes 5:18-20)
| Ecclesiastes 5:18 | The Preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands, and encourages the reader to find true fulfillment in a relationship with God. |
| Ecclesiastes 5:19 | The Preacher notes that 'everyone to whom God has given wealth and possessions and the power to enjoy them' should 'accept his lot and be joyful in his toil' (Ecclesiastes 5:19). |
| Ecclesiastes 5:20 | The Preacher concludes the chapter by encouraging the reader to 'not brood over the days of his life' (Ecclesiastes 5:20), but to trust in God and find true fulfillment in a relationship with Him. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Ecclesiastes 5?
The main theme of Ecclesiastes 5 is the importance of reverence for God and the futility of earthly pursuits. The Preacher emphasizes the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence, and warns against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power (Ecclesiastes 5:1-7).
What is the significance of the 'sacrifice of fools' in Ecclesiastes 5:1?
The 'sacrifice of fools' refers to the empty and meaningless sacrifices offered by those who do not know God or reverence Him. The Preacher warns against making rash vows or speaking carelessly, and encourages the reader to 'fear God' (Ecclesiastes 5:1-7).
How can we apply the teachings of Ecclesiastes 5 to our own lives and circumstances?
We can apply the teachings of Ecclesiastes 5 by approaching God with humility and reverence, and by seeking true fulfillment in a relationship with Him. We should also be mindful of the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power, and strive to live a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands (Ecclesiastes 5:1-20).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ecclesiastes 5:1 → Psalm 95:6 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:1 and Psalm 95:6 emphasize the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence. |
| 2 | Ecclesiastes 5:2 → Proverbs 10:19 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:2 and Proverbs 10:19 warn against the dangers of speaking carelessly and making rash vows. |
| 3 | Ecclesiastes 5:8 → Isaiah 1:17 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:8 and Isaiah 1:17 lament the oppression of the poor by the rich and powerful. |
| 4 | Ecclesiastes 5:13 → Luke 12:15 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:13 and Luke 12:15 warn against the dangers of covetousness and the love of money. |
| 5 | Ecclesiastes 5:18 → 1 Timothy 6:6 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:18 and 1 Timothy 6:6 emphasize the importance of living a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands. |
| 6 | Ecclesiastes 5:19 → Psalm 37:3-4 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:19 and Psalm 37:3-4 encourage the reader to trust in God and find true fulfillment in a relationship with Him. |
| 7 | Ecclesiastes 5:20 → Philippians 4:11-12 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:20 and Philippians 4:11-12 encourage the reader to be content with what they have and to trust in God's sovereignty. |
| 8 | Ecclesiastes 5:1 → Hebrews 12:28-29 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:1 and Hebrews 12:28-29 emphasize the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence, and warn against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power. |
| 9 | Ecclesiastes 5:2 → James 1:26-27 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:2 and James 1:26-27 warn against the dangers of speaking carelessly and making rash vows. |
| 10 | Ecclesiastes 5:8 → Amos 5:11-12 | Both Ecclesiastes 5:8 and Amos 5:11-12 lament the oppression of the poor by the rich and powerful. |
Sermons on Ecclesiastes 5
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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God's Dealing With Me - Part 1 by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of following four directions in order to receive the life and health that come from God's word. The first direction is to att |
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Laws of Spiritual Progress - Part 1 by Derek Prince | In this sermon, the speaker discusses two lessons they have learned about making spiritual progress. The first principle they emphasize is the importance of taking a step of faith |
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"Rebuke to Prosperity Preachers" by Leonard Ravenhill | This sermon challenges the notion of prosperity gospel by questioning why God rebukes those who claim to be rich and increased with goods. It delves into the discrepancy between th |
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(Basics) 45. God and Money Are Opposites by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of making a choice between serving God or serving money. He compares money to fire, stating that while it can be a useful serv |
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1992 Missions Conference Talk - Part 2 by Richard Wurmbrand | This sermon emphasizes the importance of giving and listening, drawing from the story of St. Louis and the significance of prayer amidst distractions. It highlights the value of li |
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All Is Vanity by David Hocking | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the futility of pursuing worldly goals and pleasures. He emphasizes that these pursuits do not bring lasting satisfaction or fulfillment. The |
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The Compromising Church by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life free from compromise as a Christian. He urges believers to carefully and prayerfully expose their hearts to |
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Our Attitude Toward God by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the emptiness of a life lived solely for material possessions and temporal things. He emphasizes the importance of living for Christ an |
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Quiet Time by Herb Atwood | In this video, the speaker introduces the concept of spending seven minutes with God in prayer and reading the Bible. He emphasizes the importance of quality time with God and enco |
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A Time for Everything Part 2 by Chuck Smith | In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith explores the book of Ecclesiastes, specifically focusing on chapter 3, verse 12. He begins by acknowledging the fleeting nature of life and the e |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Ecclesiastes 5
In his commentary on Ecclesiastes 5, Matthew Henry emphasizes the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence. He notes that the 'sacrifice of fools' referred to in Ecclesiastes 5:1 is the empty and meaningless sacrifices offered by those who do not know God or reverence Him. Henry also warns against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power, and encourages the reader to seek true fulfillment in a relationship with God. He emphasizes the importance of living a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands, and encourages the reader to trust in God's sovereignty and find true fulfillment in a relationship with Him. As Henry writes, 'the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom' (Proverbs 1:7), and it is this fear that should guide our approach to God and our pursuit of true fulfillment in life. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Preacher's emphasis on reverence for God
Throughout the chapter, the Preacher emphasizes the importance of approaching God with humility and reverence. He warns against the dangers of idolatry and the empty pursuits of wealth and power, and encourages the reader to draw near to God with a listening heart.
The contrast between the rich and the poor
The Preacher laments the oppression of the poor by the rich and powerful, and notes that true fulfillment is not found in wealth or material possessions, but in a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands.
The importance of simplicity and obedience
The Preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life of simplicity and obedience to God's commands, rather than pursuing wealth and material possessions. He encourages the reader to find true fulfillment in a relationship with God, rather than in the fleeting pleasures of this world.