You Can't Change What You Can't Change (Ecc 1:1-11)

Solomon's Cycle of Creation:

A closed systme
Fatalism or Determinism
Life is Boring, Discouraging and Frustrating, but that's the way it is

You Can't Change What you Can't Change (Ecc. 1:1-11)

Christianity is Built on the Premise That People Can Change

We Can Change our Direction, Lives, Practices, and Circumstances

It's Called Repentance

The Fast Lane is the Best Way (Ecc. 2:1-11)

The Key: My Own Pleasure

The Fast Lane is the Best Way (Ecc. 2:1-11)

Expressions of this Philosophy:
Laughter Alcohol
Materialism Accomplishments
Control Amusement
Reputation Sexual Gratification

The Fast Lane is the Best Way (Ecc. 2:1-11)

Life Has More to Offer than Living for Ourselves

Life isn't all about Work and Accomplishments or Instant Gratification

Power and Control (Ecc. 4:1-6)

Power, Pressure, Position and Control

Physical, Emotional and Mental Abuse

Power and Control (Ecc. 4:1-6)

Fruit and Consequences:

It Prevents the Flow of Ideas
It Produces Extreme Cases of Isolation
It Withholds the Needs of Other People
It Manipulates People and Circumstances
The Ultimate End is Loneliness

Power and Control (Ecc. 4:1-6)

The Biblical Example: Mutual Submission

Having Lots of Friends (Ecc 4:7-12)

Places where this thrives:

Bars Night-Time Gatherings
Clubs Civic Organizations
AND
The Church

Having Lots of Friends (Ecc. 4:7-12)

Effects:
It inhibits More Meaningful Relationships and Communication

It inhibits the Need for Solace and Meditation

It Creates for People the Inability to Be Along

Friendships Become the Highest Priority (At All Cost)

Having Lots of Friends (Ecc 4:7-12)

Biblical Concept:

Friends Serve as Opportunities to Help Others for Their Good and Not Just Ours.

Mutual Edification and Strength

The Lord's Church is About

Helping Others Edification
Belonging Fellowship
Family Partnering
Working Strengthening

The Roles of a Kinsman--
Redeemer (Christ)

To Avenge a Murdered Relative (Joel 3:20-21)