Summer Bible Study: Ecclesiastes

Sundays starting June 23 | 9:00-9:30am

Sometimes considered the most curmudgeonly and cynical of all the books of the Bible, Ecclesiastes is also praised for telling it like it is. It addresses eternal problems that have always troubled human society: the problem of pain, the fruitlessness of overwork, the vanity of ambition, the age of anxiety, the fear of death and being forgotten. Ecclesiastes reminds us that these are not 21st century problems.

This book of wisdom also reminds us that the great joys in life are fairly simple: snuggling under the covers, having close friends and/or a sweetheart, sunlight, rest, eating good food and drinking good wine, and a good days’ work. It offers soothing certainty about what it means to enjoy the good life: waiting, expecting, with open arms, to receive day by day the good things that come from God.

This study is divided into four sections:
• Chapters 1-2 (Vapor of Vapors: Everything Evaporates)
• Chapters 3:1-4:8 (A Time for Everything)
• Chapters 4:9-6:12 (The Key to Life is in Low Expectations)
• Chapters 7-12 (Time and Chance Happen to All)

In these Bible studies, you will be encouraged to listen: listen to the Bible, listen to your own questions and responses, and listen to the honest sharing among participants in your study group. In that mix of biblical text, personal engagement, and honest speaking and listening, God’s word may be heard, speaking challenge and comfort. If you would like a Bible Study book, or for more info, contact Gabriel R. gabriel@parkwayucc.org.