Ecclesiastes 4:1-3, 13-16, and 5:8-9
If you see in a province the oppression of the poor and the violation of justice and righteousness, do not be amazed at the matter, for the high official is watched by a higher, and there are yet higher ones over them. Ecclesiastes 5:8
I continue my study today of Ecclesiastes using the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series volume
for this book. Today, my focus is an unassisted review of Ecclesiastes 4:1-3, 13-16, and 5:8-9, which covers the third division of the commentary chapter titled Politics and Justice Are Meaningless without Jesus. In today's text, Solomon reflects on the futility of faith in politics and government - where competing factions constantly seek advantage over the others to gain power and influence outcomes in their favor, sometimes for personal gain. The futility of this faith is that government is comprised of people and we know that all of humanity sins and falls short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8) so any institution comprised by people is by definition marred by sin. Believers should submit to authorities placed over us by God (as He is in control), but we should of course not make idols of such authorities above faith in God. Solomon points out how this futility often plays out as one corrupt official is often being monitored by another corrupt official, etc. Place your faith in the King of Kings Jesus Christ!
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You reign and are King of Kings - thank You for how You rule with perfect justice and mercy for those who submit to You. I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
