ECCLESIASTES 5
Bible Study Notes Rev. Betsy Perkins
Wisdom is Fear of God
For Gaining of Wisdom (Proverbs 1:1-7):
- Watch the video “How to Read Proverbs” by Tim Mackie of The Bible Project (RightNowMedia)
- Who was the author of the book of Proverbs?
- What does the author say we will gain if we learn from this book of wise sayings?
- If you want to gain wisdom, where should you start? How does that help give wisdom?
Fear God! (Ecclesiastes 5:1-7):
- John Goldingay titles this passage in Ecclesiastes, “Sell Your Tongue and Buy a Thousand Ears”, borrowing a line from the poet Rumi. Why would these verses have made him think of that poem?
- What advice does the Teacher give in this passage about our use of words, especially our words to God?
- The vows in verses 4-6 may be similar to our offering pledges. What does the Teacher tell us about these kinds of pledges? What other vows might we make that this advice can apply to?
Wise Words (Proverbs 15:1-11):
- Read these proverbs one verse at a time and consider how they apply to life today. What is the wisdom each one teaches?
- Read Proverbs 16:1-9. What are the truths that we should pay attention to in these verses?
- Read James 1:5. Take a moment to pray…
In light of this passage and our discussion, what one truth about God and about yourself stand out as something to “take to heart” this week?
Are there steps you will take, by God’s grace, to more fully apply it to your life?
Resources: NIV Zondervan Study Bible, 2015
Dr. Larry Crabb, 66 Love Letters, 2009
Tim Mackie, The Bible Project, How to Read Ecclesiastes & How to Read Proverbs (RightNowMedia)
Philip Yancey, Session 6 Ecclesiastics: The End of Wisdom, (RightNowMedia)
Add Your Comment