Ecclesiastes Intro

Follow Along with the Message

1. Doing Life

As a church family, we care about each other’s lives: what we’re celebrating, what we’re mourning, what decisions we are praying through, and everything in between 

(1 Thessalonians 2:8, Romans 12:10, 15). Suggested time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing? 
• What can you thank God for this week?
• When were you most aware of Jesus’ presence this week? When were you least aware of Jesus’ presence this week?
• Do you have any practical needs?

2. Jesus Centered

God uses His Word to reveal Himself to us, equip us to live the good life He’s designed for us, show us our sin, and strengthen us as we follow Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17, Colossians 1:9-12, and James 1:22-25). Suggested Time: 20-40 minutes 

(Sermon Discussion Questions)

• Even with all the wisdom and wealth in the world, Solomon still walked away from the Lord.  What can we learn from this? 

• What is your initial reaction when you read Ecclesiastes 1:2–3? Is it positive or negative? 

• Do you struggle with understanding ‘why you exist’ or ‘what is your purpose’? Do any areas of your life feel fleeting (like a “vapor” or bubble)? 

• Read Ecclesiastes 1:9-10.  Why do we often feel that the problems of our current age are “new” and therefore the outcomes are unpredictable (i.e. social media, political polarization, AI, etc.)?  Is anything actually “new”? 

• Read Ecclesiastes 1:11.  Is it comforting or stressful to you to think that nobody will remember your name 100 years from now? 

• Discuss this quote by C.S. Lewis: “If we find in ourselves a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, it must mean that we were made for another world.”

3. Engaging the Heart

Jesus calls us to walk in the light, confessing our sins to God and each other. God’s Spirit works through confession and community to lead us to repentance. (Romans 3:23-24, James 5:16 and 1 John 1:5-10) Suggested Time: 10-20 minutes 

• How are you doing abiding with Jesus this week in Scripture and prayer? 
• What sin do you need to confess to God? What are you struggling to trust Jesus with this week? How can you give Him control of it? (As people confess sin, make sure to remind one another of the good news Jesus offers.)

4. Expanding the Kingdom

Just like God the Father sent Jesus on a mission of reconciliation for us, Jesus sends us out as ambassadors of His reconciliation. We are called to make disciples wherever we go. (John 20:21 and 2 Corinthians 5:18-20) Suggested time: 10-20 minutes

• People: Who in your life can you be building with right now? What does that look like during this season? 
• Plan: Are there any rhythms planned (virtual or in-person) that we can invite these friends into? What spiritual conversations do you want to initiate with them soon? 
• Pray: Let’s pray for our people by name; pray for their needs, opportunities to connect, and opportunities to have spiritual conversations that help them take next steps toward Jesus.