ECCLESIASTES
READING PLAN + STUDY QUESTIONS
READING PLAN
THE FLEETING NATURE OF LIFE
WISDOM + FOOLISHNESS
DEATH AWAITS ALL
HOW TO USE
READ THE CHAPTERS IN THE BIBLE FOR EACH SESSION
ANSWER THE QUESTIONS + REFLECT ON THE READING
This study encourages going at your own pace, allowing each session to be a day, a week, or however long you need. Each session contains questions to be used for individual reflection or small group discussion.
This study was made to be used alongside Bible reading. Although we have created chapter summaries, there is no substitute for reading God's Word.
SESSION ONE: ECCLESIASTES 1-3
THE FLEETING NATURE OF LIFE
Using a study Bible or internet search, look up the meaning of the Hebrew word “Hebel” (הֶבֶל). What different meanings can you find? Does this affect your interpretation or understanding of the text?
How does the Teacher compare humanity and nature? Which does he view as permanent and lasting? What does it mean that there is “nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9)?
In Ecclesiastes 1, how does the Teacher view the pursuit of wisdom?
Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 describes the acquisition of pleasure and earthly possessions. How does the Teacher view these pursuits?
Have you heard the expression that there is “a season and a time for everything”? Read Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Does anything on this list surprise you?
What does it mean that God has put eternity into the hearts of humanity?
Compare Genesis 2:7 and Ecclesiastes 3:20. What similarities do you find?
SESSION TWO: ECCLESIASTES 4-7
WISDOM + FOOLISHNESS
Why does the author consider two to be better than one (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)?
In Ecclesiastes 5, what does the author advise regarding words and language?
Read Ecclesiastes 5:10. How does this message oppose the message of culture?
Have you ever reached a goal or accomplishment that left you unfulfilled? Why is it easy to fall into the trap of wanting the next best thing?
The author encourages delighting in good things and considering them as gifts from God. How can you continually thank and praise God for the good gifts in your life?
Have you ever reached a goal or accomplishment that left you unfulfilled? Why is it easy to fall into the trap of wanting the next best thing?
Read Ecclesiastes 7:5. How is the rebuke of a wise person better than the praise of a foolish person?
In Ecclesiastes 7:16, why would the author recommend not becoming “overly righteous”? At what point does seeking wisdom no longer become wise?
Read Ecclesiastes 7:20. How was the author unknowingly anticipating the perfect sinlessness of Christ?
SESSION THREE: ECCLESIASTES 8-12
DEATH AWAITS ALL
In Ecclesiastes 8:10-13, what advice does the author give for a successful life?
According to Ecclesiastes 8:14-17, humanity cannot fully know God’s ways. Do you find this to be concerning or comforting?
The author ponders the concept that all people will end up with the same fate regardless of their status or righteousness. How does the author provide comfort while wrestling with mortality?
In Ecclesiastes 9, how does the author contrast wisdom and folly? What is the meaning of Ecclesiastes 9:17-18?
How does Ecclesiastes 10:10-11 speak to the value of being prepared?
In Ecclesiastes 11:9-10, how does the author both encourage enjoyment in life and provide caution about God’s judgment?
Compare and contrast the overarching theme of Ecclesiastes to the messages of Job and Proverbs. To which perspective do you feel most naturally inclined?
How would you summarize the overall message of Ecclesiastes? Do you find it to be depressing or encouraging?
Way to go! You finished the book of Ecclesiastes!
Thank you for reading through the Bible with Everyday Scripture.
Keep going — the next book of Old Testament Poetry is Song of Solomon!