This term we’re looking at the book of Ecclesiastes, which describes life on this planet is meaningless; i.e. a puff of mist. Yet the author’s (Qohelet’s) purpose is to get us thinking about life, rather than just mindlessly living on instinct, like the animals. So while this book may seem depressing at times, it’s importance is in helping us live the informed life.
What makes this book even more relevant to modern ears is that Qohelet is discussing life ‘under the sun’. This is a strange phrase, but it refers to the notion that there is nothing above the sun; i.e. no god. Commentators believe Qohelet wrote this book to combat the rise of atheism in his day, by asking his readers ‘have you really thought through the atheist belief system?’ The meaningless life, according to Qohelet, is life without God. This has 3 ramifications for modern Christians:
The first is that the Christian life is by far the most meaningful, and therefore most fulfilling life (or belief system) there is. Ecclesiastes says Christians are on the right track. So rejoice!
Second, it warns against the influence of atheism. While atheism is still in the minority on this planet, it has influenced western society by convincing us that ‘because there’s no God’, we have to find fulfilment in earthly things. Western Christians must understand the influence our culture has on us, then listen to Qohelet, who tells us that (i) humanism (looking after humans), (ii) hedonism (e.g. materialism), (iii) accomplishment, or (iv) being remembered, can never bring satisfaction (Eccl 1:1-11). Christians should rather seek meaning in Christ, The Logos (meaning) of life (John 1:1).
Thirdly, it gives Christians even more reason to tell others about Jesus. Not only do non-Christians have an eternity in hell to look forward to, life on this planet is pointless as well without God. May we tell our family and friends where true meaning is found: in Jesus.
