21) The Book of Ecclesiastes

ECCLESIASTES is a perfect sermon by Solomon, the Preacher. The sermon is delivered to an assembly of people (ekkiesia 12:9-11). The word preacher occurs seven times in the book (1:1-2, 12; 7:27; 12:8-10). The preacher demonstrated the art of preaching or homiletics. The message contains organized points for a specific purpose of bringing the listener to a decision. Solomon's doctrinal theme was the vanity of life under the sun and his conclusion encouraged the listener to fulfill the proper duty of life (12:13-14; Micah 6:8).

The entire book is aimed at intellectual philosophers, educated humanists, and materialistic hedonists who are trying to live life to its fullest without God. King Solomon was the perfect philosopher who analyzed life from the perspective of wine, women, and wealth.

The doctrinal theme of the book is about life under the sun and this theme occurs 29 times in the 12 chapters and 222 verses of the book. Solomon listed the vanities of the world that lead to a vexation of spirit. This phrase occurs nine times in the book. Fame and fortune cannot buy happiness or peace of heart, The Lord Jesus Christ gives purpose and true meaning to life (John 10:10).

The Jews used to read the book publicly during the feast of tabernacles. This reminded the Jews that material wealth and prosperity should not sidetrack people from the real purpose of life (Deut. 8:7-20; Matt. 13:22; Rev, 4:11). Solomon hinted at some prophecies of the Great Tribulation, but the author limited his writing specifically to life under the sun.

King James Bible.