Life in the Fast Lane

Today we begin a new series on the Book of Ecclesiastes. The title comes from a Greek word indicating a person who calls an assembly. The author identified himself in Ecclesiastes 1:1 by the Hebrew word qoheleth, which is translated as “Treacher.” Although the author doesn’t give us his name, internal evidence in the book, along with most Jewish and Christian tradition, suggests that King Solomon authored this important Old Testament book.

Ecclesiastes is considered by many Bible commentators to be the most unique book in the Bible. What makes it so unique is the perspective of the author. He is writing down his observations on life based solely on human reasoning, which he refers to with the phrase “under the sun.” This phrase is the key to understanding the book and its place in the Scriptures. It occurs 27 times in the 12 chapters of Ecclesiastes and reveals the mindset of the author who has searched diligently throughout the earth looking for meaning and purpose in life. Despite his access to unequaled wealth and material resources, King Solomon has been unable to solve the riddle of life. No matter where he turns, he comes up empty apart from God. 

Solomon’s personal struggles help emphasize an important universal truth: The only thing that can satisfy the deepest longing in the human heart is a relationship with Jesus Christ. When we begin to understand the depth of God’s love for us, it changes everything!