May 12, 2024 • RD McClenagan • Ecclesiastes 12:9–14
This Sunday, RD wraps up our series in Ecclesiastes and challenges us to live our lives fully centered on God. God is the central part of life, whether we recognize it or not. The struggle is not to just say that God is at the center, but to truly make Him the pivot around which everything in life revolves. The pursuit of pleasure and success often leaves us feeling empty because these things are fleeting and don't really satisfy our deeper cravings for meaning. Ecclesiastes doesn't sugarcoat the emptiness of chasing after worldly things, pushing us to look beyond for true fulfillment.
All The Days of Life
May 5, 2024 • Greg Pinkner • Ecclesiastes 11
As we near the end of our teaching through Ecclesiastes, this week, Greg discusses Ecclesiastes Chapter 11, emphasizing the theme of generosity and the importance of faith despite life's uncertainties. He points out that "casting your bread upon the waters" is a call to be generous and open-hearted, trusting God's providence in all circumstances. Although the future is unknown and challenges are inevitable, believers are encouraged to act faithfully and sow good deeds. Greg underscores the idea that God is sovereign, and at the same time, we are responsible for our actions—even if this paradox is difficult to grasp. Ultimately, he reminds us that suffering shapes us and that God's grace through Jesus Christ is our source of salvation and renewal.
Greg continues our series in Ecclesiastes and teaches from chapters 9 and 10. These chapters delve into the inevitability of death and the shared fate of all individuals, regardless of their moral standing, suggesting a bleak but equal end for everyone. We are encouraged to see past the short-lived successes of this world and to think about the bigger story of Christ that ties in with a higher purpose, even when life seems unjust.
Greg continues our series in Ecclesiastes and teaches from chapters 7 and 8. In these verses, the writer of Ecclesiastes continues his thesis on why everything is meaningless, but he begins to look at why we are trapped in a world where everything we try to do to make our lives have meaning fails. The New Testament gives the same idea that the entire universe has been subjected to futility, waiting for one day when there will be hope. The hope that will bring humanity out of futility is Christ.
Continuing our East of Eden series on the book of Ecclesiastes, Greg teaches from chapters 5 and 6 - the book's midpoint. The passage warns against pursuing worldly desires, equating them with worshiping false gods. It emphasizes the importance of humility and reverence before God, contrasting self-centeredness with biblical principles. Solomon's life exemplifies the consequences of unchecked desires, highlighting the need for repentance and dependence on God. Ultimately, the text encourages a shift towards sanctification, recognizing human frailty and embracing God's guidance for a fulfilled life.
Continuing our East of Eden series on the book of Ecclesiastes, we explore the themes of life's meaninglessness and the pursuit of pleasure and work. Greg highlights the futility of seeking satisfaction in worldly pleasures and accomplishments. Yet, amidst this despair, there's a glimmer of hope found in the promise of salvation through Jesus Christ, who bore the curse on the cross. The message emphasizes the need to turn away from self-centered pursuits and find true fulfillment in Christ.
Everything Beautiful in Its Time
March 3, 2024 • RD McClenagan • Ecclesiastes 3:1–11
This Sunday, RD continues our series on Ecclesiastes. Ecclesiastes 3:1-22 discusses the seasons of life and the faithfulness of God within them. The Bible not only presents truths but also reflects the messy realities of life. Life is depicted as a series of contrasting experiences, such as birth and death, building and breaking down, weeping and laughing. Despite the pain and uncertainty, there is a belief in the eventual beauty and purpose of all experiences, exemplified by personal stories of struggle and hope. Every detour in life may ultimately lead to a perfect outcome in God's plan, and He gives us hope.
Life Is Good WITH God
February 25, 2024 • Rick Dunn • Ecclesiastes 2:20–24
This Sunday, Rick continues our series on Ecclesiastes. We delve into the wisdom of Ecclesiastes, exploring the fleeting nature of human toil and the pursuit of fulfillment apart from God. The passage reveals the futility of striving for earthly success and possessions, only to leave them behind for uncertain futures. Rick shares personal reflections on transitions and struggles, highlighting the deeper wrestle with idolatry and the human desire for control. Despite life's challenges and disappointments, there is a profound truth: true joy and fulfillment come from embracing God's presence and surrendering to His sovereignty. As we journey through life's ups and downs, may we find rest and purpose in knowing that God's story is ultimately unfolding for our good and His glory.
I Need a New God
February 18, 2024 • Rick Dunn • Ecclesiastes 1:16–18, Ecclesiastes 2:1–17
This Sunday, Rick continues our series on Ecclesiastes. He looks at the comparison between the idols that we build to worship in our lives and the one true God. We turn to idols to hide our shame, but the one true God created us to worship Him and redeem us so we can.
Chasing the Wind
February 11, 2024 • Greg Pinkner • Ecclesiastes 1
This Sunday, Greg begins our new series on Ecclesiastes. Ecclesiastes focuses on the concept of the futility of life. Despite its reputation as one of the most challenging books in the Old Testament to interpret, we will look at the parallels between its content and the modern world and its critique of contemporary culture.
