Job; Ecclesiastes

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Leader Guide Summer 2021 | ESV JOB; ECCLESIASTES

LEADER GUIDE • SUMMER 2021 • ESV • SUMMER GUIDE LEADER UNDERSTAND EXPLORE APPLY Job; Ecclesiastes

Many people try to build their lives on success, wealth, power, or intellectual accomplishments. Such a way of life, however, is ultimately futile and meaningless. Everything in this life is fleeting and fading away; anything that does not have eternal value really has no value.

Jesus taught that a house built on the sand will collapse when the storms hit. But the one who builds his house on the rock—his house will stand (Matt. 7:24-27). This “rock” that provides a solid foundation for life is Jesus Himself. Jesus is the foundation for a life that is secure, satisfying, and meaningful.

The Old Testament character of Job learned that the answer to life’s mysteries and meaning lies in proper reverence for God. It’s been said that you don’t know God is all you need until God is all you have. In losing everything he had, Job discovered that God was all he really needed.

Solomon learned the meaning of life by gaining and acquiring everything life had to offer. Despite having everything, he found it was all futile and meaninglessness if God is not the central focus of life.

All of this points to our need of Jesus and the life He offers. He came so that we can have life that is abundant and eternal (John 3:16; 10:10). Right now, He is waiting for you.

• Admit to God that you are a sinner. Repent, turning away from your sin.

• By faith receive Jesus Christ as God’s Son and accept Jesus’ gift of forgiveness from sin. He took the penalty for your sin by dying on the cross.

• Confess your faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. You may pray a prayer similar to this as you call on God to save you: “Dear God, I know that You love me. I confess my sin and need of salvation. I turn away from my sin and place my faith in Jesus as my Savior and Lord. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.”

After you have received Jesus Christ into your life, tell a pastor or another Christian about your decision. Show others your faith in Christ by asking for baptism by immersion in your local church as a public expression of your faith.

© 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Ancient Near East During the Patriarchs atriarchs” is adapted from the Holman Bible Atlas (Nashville: Holman Reference, 2014), 42. Used by permission. the Holman Bible Atlas (Nashville: Holman Reference, is adapted from atriarchs” The Ancient Near East in the Time of P “

City City (uncertain location) Old Assyrian Kingdom Kingdom of Mari Old Babylonian Kingdom Egpyt Egyptian inﬂuence OF THE PATRIARCHS (2000 –1550) THE ANCIENT NEAR EAST IN TIME

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SUMMER 2021

FEATURES

Word Wise ...... 6

Bible Reading Plan ...... 7

Introduction to Job; Ecclesiastes ...... 10

Leader Pack Ideas...... 143

Who is Satan? Lessons from Job ...... 146

Job’s Friends: Models of Compassion? . . . . 149

Vanity: A Word Study ...... 151 Map: Ancient Near East During the Patriarchs ...... 155

SESSIONS

SUGGESTED FOR THE WEEK OF

June 6 Session 1: Faith Tested (Job 1:8-22) ...... 13

June 13 Session 2: Hope Defined (Job 14:1-14) ...... 23

June 20 Session 3: Redemption Found (Job 19:19-29) ...... 33

June 27 Session 4: Wisdom Gained (Job 28:12-28) ...... 43

July 4 Session 5: Justice Sought (Job 36:8-23) ...... 53

July 11 Session 6: Power Displayed (Job 40:1-14) ...... 63

July 18 Session 7: Dependence Declared (Job 42:1-11) ...... 73

July 25 Session 8: What’s the Use? (Eccl . 1:12-15; 2:18-26) ...... 83

August 1 Session 9: What Time Is It? (Eccl . 3:1-15) ...... 93

August 8 Session 10: Why Listen? (Eccl . 4:13–5:7) ...... 103

August 15 Session 11: Where Is the Balance? (Eccl . 7:11-22) ...... 113

August 22 Session 12: Facing Death? (Eccl . 9:1-10) ...... 123

August 29 Session 13: What Is Life About?* (Eccl . 12:1-14) ...... 133

*Evangelistic Emphasis

Matt Capps wrote the commentary for this study of Job and Ecclesiastes. Matt is senior pastor of Fairview Baptist Church in Apex, North Carolina. He earned degrees from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte (B.A.), Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (D.Min.). Matt and his wife, Laura, have three children. Liz Sherrer wrote the teaching plans for this quarter. Liz is a retired teacher and educational consultant. She has had the privilege of providing staff development and consulting for schools across the nation to improve literacy skills. Liz holds degrees from Oklahoma State University and the University of Central Oklahoma. She is married to Dr. Joe Sherrer, a professor at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. They are the proud parents of two grown sons and five grandchildren. Liz loves teaching her adult Bible study class each week at Southern Hills Baptist Church in Oklahoma City using the Explore the Bible curriculum.

Explore the Bible: Adult Leader Guide (ISSN 2331-6667; Item 005573507) is published quarterly by Explore the Bible LifeWay, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234 Ben Mandrell, President. © 2021 LifeWay Christian Adult Leader Guide Resources. Summer 2021 For ordering or inquiries visit www.lifeway.com, or write LifeWay Church Resources Customer Service, Volume 7, Number 4 One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0113. For subscriptions or subscription address changes Mike Livingstone email [email protected], fax 615.251.5818, or write to the above address. For bulk shipments Content Editor mailed quarterly to one address, email [email protected], fax 615.251.5933 or write to the Ken Braddy above address Director of Sunday School We believe that the Bible has God for its author; salvation for its end; and truth, without any mixture Brandon Hiltibidal of error, for its matter and that all Scripture is totally true and trustworthy. To review LifeWay’s Director, Adult Ministry doctrinal guideline, please visit LifeWay.com/doctrinalguideline. Send questions/comments to: Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version® (ESV®), © 2001 by Content Editor, Explore the Bible: Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Adult Leader Guide The suggestions in this resource for pronouncing Bible names are from That’s Easy for You to Say: One LifeWay Plaza Your Quick Guide to Pronouncing Bible Names by W. Murray Severance, © 1997 by Broadman & Nashville, TN 37234-0175 Holman Publishers. Used by permission. Printed in the United States of America

Job and Ecclesiastes? Really! Most two-year blocks of time are filled with ups and downs. The past two years seem to have had more than their fair share. Members of the team that create these resources and our associates have seen deaths of loved ones and births, a retirement and an addition to our team, surgeries and recoveries, and sickness and health. We felt the economic impact of quarantines and learned new ways of relating, working, and teaching. Our experience was not unique, having heard from many of you as well. The challenges of the last two years set the background for what you have in your hands. As we and our writers worked through Job and Ecclesiastes, we did so when facing many of the same questions addressed by Job and Solomon. We rediscovered the joy of trusting God for each day, the promise of a sunrise, and the satisfaction of a sunset. Job and Solomon came to the same conclusion as they looked at life: trust God in all things. They discovered a hope that was based on the One who does not change. That trust and hope brought balance and perspective to their lives. Job and Solomon learned some important lessons that can help us today. As we study these two Bible books, we will focus on these timeless truths and the hope found through faith in God and in His redemptive work. May God help us remain faithful to Him in all things. In His service, G. Dwayne McCrary Team Leader [email protected]

Terms listed here are identified in the Bible commentary with a dot (•).

Abaddon [uh BAD uhn]—Hebrew word that means “to perish,” parallel to death (Job 28:22) or Sheol (Job 26:6). It means the place of utter destruction. Destruction and death are personified—they speak—in Job 28:22. Chaldeans [kal DEE uhns]—In the Old Testament, the terms Chaldeans and Babylonians may be used interchangeably. The geographic region of Chaldea lies in modern Iraq, near its border to Iran. Cush—A nation south of Egypt in Old Testament times; the Hebrew word Cush is sometimes translated “Ethiopia,” as in the King James Version. The borders of ancient Cush, however, were not identical with the borders of modern-day Ethiopia. Naamathite [NAY uh muh thight]—A Naamathite was a resident of Na’ameh. Although the exact location is uncertain, this may have been Djebel-el-Na’ameh in north-west Arabia. Ophir [OH fuhr]—A place famous in the ancient Near East for its trade, especially in its highly-valued gold. Solomon’s ships brought sixteen tons of gold and other goods from Ophir (1 Kings 9:28; 10:11). The exact geographical region is unknown. Sabeans [suh BEE uhns]—Sabeans were descendants of Sheba, the rich queen who visited Solomon (1 Kings 10). They came from the southern part of Arabia and were known as traveling merchants (Job 6:19). Sebean may also have been a general term for nomadic merchants of any origin. Sabeans destroyed Job’s flocks, herds, and servants (Job 1:15). Sheol [SHEE ohl]—In Old Testament understanding, Sheol was the abode of the dead. It is described as a place of doom and darkness (Job 10:21). Shuhite [SHOO hight]—A person from Shuah; Shuah was the home of Job’s friend Bildad (Job 2:11). Shuhites were possibly descendants of Shuah, son of Abraham (Gen. 25:2). Temanite [TEE muhn ight]—A person from Teman, a town located in Edom between the southern border of Israel and the Gulf of Aqaba. Temanites were renowned for their wisdom (Jer. 49:7). Job’s friend Eliphaz was a Temanite (Job 2:11).

JUNE JULY AUGUST

❏ 1. Job 1:1-12 ❏ 1. Job 17:11–18:4 ❏ 1. Job 34:21-37 ❏ 2. Job 1:13-22 ❏ 2. Job 18:5-21 ❏ 2. Job 35:1-16 ❏ 3. Job 2:1-13 ❏ 3. Job 19:1-12 ❏ 3. Job 36:1-21 ❏ 4. Job 3:1-19 ❏ 4. Job 19:13-29 ❏ 4. Job 36:22-33 ❏ 5. Job 3:20-26 ❏ 5. Job 20:1-11 ❏ 5. Job 37:1-24 ❏ 6. Job 4:1-21 ❏ 6. Job 20:12-29 ❏ 6. Job 38:1-24 ❏ 7. Job 5:1-15 ❏ 7. Job 21:1-21 ❏ 7. Job 38:25-41 ❏ 8. Job 5:16-27 ❏ 8. Job 21:22-34 ❏ 8. Job 39:1-18 ❏ 9. Job 6:1-13 ❏ 9. Job 22:1-20 ❏ 9. Job 39:19-30 ❏ 10. Job 6:14-30 ❏ 10. Job 22:21-30 ❏ 10. Job 40:1-24 ❏ 11. Job 7:1-10 ❏ 11. Job 23:1-17 ❏ 11. Job 41:1-11 ❏ 12. Job 7:11-21 ❏ 12. Job 24:1-12 ❏ 12. Job 41:12-34 ❏ 13. Job 8:1-22 ❏ 13. Job 24:13-25 ❏ 13. Job 42:1-17 ❏ 14. Job 9:1-20 ❏ 14. Job 25:1–26:14 ❏ 14. Ecclesiastes 1:1-18 ❏ 15. Job 9:21-35 ❏ 15. Job 27:1-12 ❏ 15. Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 ❏ 16. Job 10:1-12 ❏ 16. Job 27:13-23 ❏ 16. Ecclesiastes 2:12-26 ❏ 17. Job 10:13-22 ❏ 17. Job 28:1-11 ❏ 17. Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 ❏ 18. Job 11:1-9 ❏ 18. Job 28:12-28 ❏ 18. Ecclesiastes 3:16-22 ❏ 19. Job 11:10-20 ❏ 19. Job 29:1-17 ❏ 19. Ecclesiastes 4:1-16 ❏ 20. Job 12:1-12 ❏ 20. Job 29:18-25 ❏ 20. Ecclesiastes 5:1-7 ❏ 21. Job 12:13-25 ❏ 21. Job 30:1-19 ❏ 21. Ecclesiastes 5:8-20 ❏ 22. Job 13:1-19 ❏ 22. Job 30:20-31 ❏ 22. Ecclesiastes 6:1-12 ❏ 23. Job 13:20-28 ❏ 23. Job 31:1-15 ❏ 23. Ecclesiastes 7:1-14 ❏ 24. Job 14:1-12 ❏ 24. Job 31:16-28 ❏ 24. Ecclesiastes 7:15-29 ❏ 25. Job 14:13-22 ❏ 25. Job 31:29-40 ❏ 25. Ecclesiastes 8:1-9 ❏ 26. Job 15:1-16 ❏ 26. Job 32:1-14 ❏ 26. Ecclesiastes 8:10-17 ❏ 27. Job 15:17-35 ❏ 27. Job 32:15-22 ❏ 27. Ecclesiastes 9:1-10 ❏ 28. Job 16:1-14 ❏ 28. Job 33:1-11 ❏ 28. Ecclesiastes 9:11-18 ❏ 29. Job 16:15-22 ❏ 29. Job 33:12-25 ❏ 29. Ecclesiastes 10:1-20 ❏ 30. Job 17:1-10 ❏ 30. Job 33:26-33 ❏ 30. Ecclesiastes 11:1-10 ❏ 31. Job 34:1-20 ❏ 31. Ecclesiastes 12:1-14

BEFORE THE GROUP TIME DURING THE GROUP TIME

1. Study the core passage. 4. Arrive early. Start preparing early. Read the passage, Make sure you are the first person to listing people, places, key words, key arrive. Pray as you set up the area. Greet phrases, and actions taken. Use the everyone as participants arrive and focus commentary included in the Explore their attention on the Bible study. the Bible Leader Guide, and the Explore the Bible Adult Commentary to discover 5. L ead the group in a time information about the items you listed. of Bible study. Write a summary of the main idea you Use the plan you created, recording notes discovered using the statement printed of how the group responded. Remember, under the session title of each session as a every group experience takes a few starting place. unexpected twists and turns; be flexible. 2. Create a group time plan. Craft a group plan that helps the group discover and respond to the main idea. AFTER THE GROUP TIME Consult the Group Plans in the Explore the Bible Leader Guide (includes ideas for using 6. Evaluate and Record. the Personal Study Guide). Identify ways to Review the Reinforce idea to encourage focus the group’s attention, explore the the group to put into practice the truths text, summarize the lesson, and challenge discovered. Record prayer requests and the group. other insights you gained about the group For additional ideas or questions, consult and specific participants. Use these notes to QuickSource and Explore the Bible Extra help you be a better teacher in the future. (identifies a current event to introduce and conclude the lesson, found at 7. Start preparing to lead goExploreTheBible.com/LeaderExtras). the next group time. Review the Explore the Bible Leader Pack items. Look at the LifeWay Sunday School blog and Groups Ministry blog for helps on leading an ongoing Bible study group.

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Where can wisdom and understanding be even to follow a strictly thematic division found? This is one of the central questions (in most places). Job and Ecclesiastes both that has consumed humanity from read as narratives for the most part, while generation to generation. Human beings utilizing forms similar to the Psalms or have always been interested in gathering Proverbs in certain places. and classifying knowledge in order to learn While Ecclesiastes and Job are certainly from experience, and in many cases it is wise unique, there are several themes we find to learn from the experiences of others. All in both books that are explored elsewhere this is done in the pursuit of wisdom. in the Bible. First, there is the theme of As Christians, we can be thankful “fearing God” which sets the orientation that there is a category of literature in the or framework within which life is lived. Bible classified as “wisdom literature.” Second, both books express the limits of In biblical scholarship there are several human wisdom and the distinction between works that are categorized in this manner; Creator and creature. Both Ecclesiastes and these works often include Proverbs, Job, Job contrast the righteous and wicked in Ecclesiastes, and some might add Song of the context of justice and God’s mysterious Solomon. There are also psalms that would workings in the world. Finally, both books fall into the category of wisdom literature. differentiate between two kinds of wisdom: Because wisdom literature is also found the wisdom of God and the wisdom of in other sections of the Bible (parables of man. The wisdom of man is gained through Jesus or sections of James), categorizing human thought, and experiences can books this way is a little restrictive even if often be helpful. Godly wisdom, however it is generally helpful. At the very least, one is ultimate, because it is wisdom revealed could argue that wisdom literature in the from God. Bible is found in texts that are primarily concerned with living a godly life in light JOB of God’s sovereign rule in creation. In some ways, this helps us understand exactly what Job is one of the most profound and wisdom is. Wisdom is what can be learned transparent books of the Bible. The writer of from experience or is the ability to make the Book of Job is unknown. Some scholars good choices in life. To put it another way, have proposed Job himself was the writer. wisdom is the good application of knowledge We can surmise that the writer or narrator of in everyday situations. Take note; wisdom Job was a Hebrew well acquainted with Old is not just abstract knowledge but applied Testament Scripture (Pss. 8:4; 107:40) and knowledge in real life experiences. Wisdom was a learned and well-traveled individual. is very practical. There are no historical indicators to In this study we will examine two books determine the context of the book rather of wisdom, namely Job and Ecclesiastes. than the circumstances of Job’s life. The Job and Ecclesiastes offer a specific side earliest reference to Job is found in Ezekiel of wisdom, namely, reflections on the 14:14, where the prophet listed Job as an perplexity of human life (or as Ecclesiastes example of virtue. Job wrestled with the issues of human frames it, life “under the sun”). In some suffering and divine purposes, and ultimately ways, wisdom literature tends to resist a teaches us to submit to the mysteries of God. straightforward chronological setting or

10 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Even still, Job reminds us that we can find Both Ecclesiastes and Job teach comfort in the presence of God even when us important lessons about life as the we cannot discern His purposes. In Job, we collected wisdom gathered by saints who understand that the mysterious order of the have experienced things before us. While universe is not fully revealed to mankind, Ecclesiastes may be a little disturbing and we must learn to trust in the God who because of the themes explored, it presents presides over the universe. the often harsh realities of living in a broken world. While Job may cause people ECCLESIASTES to reconsider their assumptions about God’s ways and the normative outworking The Book of Ecclesiastes is part of the Old of justice in the universe, in the end the Testament’s wisdom literature. Its name majesty and sovereignty of God loom much literally means “one who addresses an larger than the questions we may ask. There assembly of people,” “teacher,” or “preacher.” are mysteries approached in these books Given the book’s instruction in wisdom, it that are not fully answered, and just like in is best to think of the title referring to its our lives, these unresolved tensions force us writer as “the Teacher.” to trust and depend on the wisdom of God. The writer reveals he was a son of David These are complex books. However, the who ruled in Jerusalem over Israel (1:1,12). benefit of going deep into God’s Word is that This points to Solomon, since he was the only God’s Word will go deep into our hearts. The descendant of David to rule in Jerusalem honesty of these books provides insight into over all of Israel. The language as well as our limited perceptions and understandings the content and literary evidence in the of the world in which we live. The good news is book all support Solomon’s authorship. That that where we find our own wisdom lacking being the case, Solomon wrote Ecclesiastes and our false perceptions confronted, we sometime between 971-931 BC, the time have an opportunity to repent and grow. of his reign. Given his tone, he most likely Therefore, tread carefully and prayerfully. wrote the book closer to the end of his life. May God settle your hearts to be at peace The purpose of the Book of Ecclesiastes with who His Word shows Him to be, and is to show the futility and meaninglessness may His Word shape you into who He wants of life when it is lived apart from God as you to be. its central focus and object of devotion. Anything that does not have eternal value has no value. Recognition of this truth should drive people to faith in God. Satisfaction in life comes when people trust God and His sovereign will for their lives, rejoice in His blessings, fear Him, and obey His commandments. Life is short, so people need to seize the opportunities God gives them when He gives them and prepare themselves for death and then the judgment, where they will give an account to God for how they lived their lives.

OUTLINE OF JOB I. The Testing Begins (1:1–2:10)

II. First Round of Discourse (2:11–14:22)

III. Second Round of Discourse (15:1–21:34)

IV. Third Round of Discourse (22:1–31:40)

V. Elihu Speaks (32:1–37:24)

VI. God Speaks (38:1–42:6)

VII. Resolution (42:7-17)

OUTLINE OF ECCLESIASTES

I. Introduction: The Search for Meaning (1:1-11)

II. The Search Described (1:12–6:12)

III. Wisdom Gained in the Search (7:1–10:20)

IV. Conclusion: Fear and Honor God (11:1−12:14)

ON THE COVER Stone olive press found at Tel Aviv, the ancient port city of Joppa. The beam through the round upright stone was pushed by an animal or human. The rolling stone crushed the olives, and the oil was collected in a vat. Olive oil was used for cooking, lamp fuel, medicinal ointments, and the anointing of kings. Oil also was a symbol of blessing and joy. (See session 12.)

ILLUSTRATOR PHOTO/ BRENT BRUCE/ ERETZ ISRAEL MUSEUM/ TEL AVIV, ISRAEL (60/9260)

JOB 1:8-22 MEMORY VERSE: JOB 1:21

STUDY Job 1:8–22, noting the interactions Prepare to Display: between God and Satan, as well as Job’s Pack Item 1 (Map: Ancient Near East During response. Use Explore the Text on pages 15–19 Patriarchs) to gain insight into the depth of Job’s faith. Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) Reflect on how challenging it can be to praise Make Copies of: God in the midst of difficulties. Pack Item 7 (Handout: Job Time Line) CREATE a teaching plan for your group using Pack Item 9 (Handout: Memory the ideas on pages 20–22. Focus on helping Verses Bookmark) the group recognize Job as a real man and Satan as a real being who is powerful but not CONSULT the weekly Explore the Bible adult equal to God. Look for ways to reinforce the podcast to gain insights on the go about this understanding of God’s sovereignty. week’s study on Ministry Grid, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, Spotify, LifeWay’s Digital Pass, or at GATHER the following items: goExploreTheBible.com/adults-training. Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs) REINFORCE the session by reminding the group Chart paper or a white board and markers that a new study is beginning that will help them deal with some of life’s most difficult questions about suffering and pain in this world.

Date of My Bible Study:______13 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE Most of us hold to an idea that good things happen to good people and bad The Kingdom things happen to bad people. But how do we explain bad things happening The kingdom of God includes to good people? Adversity can blindside us and leave us reeling in shock both His general sovereignty over and dismay. We struggle to look for answers, yet answers are not always the universe and His particular found, just more questions. Job experienced unexpected tragedies in his kingship over men who willfully life and demonstrated the depth of his faith as he faced them. acknowledge Him as King (Rom. 5:17). (In PSG, p . 10) What is the most difficult challenge you have faced? What did you learn about what you trusted during that challenge?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL JOB 1:1–2:10 Use a Bible dictionary. The first few chapters of Job serve as a prologue, introducing us to some Read an article on “suffering” of the main characters and setting up the storyline of the book. We are in a Bible dictionary. Make a introduced to Job in 1:1-5. He lived in Uz, which was outside of Israel. He list of the faithful men and was a man of complete integrity, he feared God, and he turned away from women of the Bible who suffered evil (1:1). Much could be said of the first verse alone. In many ways, this unimaginable circumstances. first verse puts forth an excellent epitaph for the headstone of a faithful How do these examples help you follower of God. The text also notes that Job was a faithful leader of his properly frame your expectations family (1:2-5). Job’s fear of God led him to advocate for his children’s of the Christian life? How does forgiveness of potential sin, concerned that they may have cursed God in their faith teach you and shape their week-long parties (1:5). your response to suffering? Looking at 1:6–2:10, the introduction of Satan, the accuser, sets the plot of the book in motion. The setting is heaven. While the “sons of God” (angelic associates) gather around their King, the dialogue with the accuser takes center stage. The term accuser refers to one who acts like a prosecuting attorney (Ps. 109:6; Zech. 3:1-2) or a political foe who attempts to overthrow the king (2 Sam. 19:22). In the Old and New Testaments, the words used in reference to Satan carry the ideas of “slanderer, accuser, adversary, or opponent.” The adversary slanders and accuses believers (Rev. 12:10). Satan lures and tempts people to sinful actions (1 Thess. 3:5; Matt. 4:3). In Scripture, we also see that he inflicts physical suffering (Job 2:1-10; 2 Cor. 12:7) and schemes evil (2 Cor. 2:11; 2 Tim. 2:26). All of these descriptions are congruent with the happenings in the Book of Job. During this conversation between God and the accuser, we are introduced to the two-stage test of Job’s integrity through suffering. Job’s wife asked a question in 2:9 that frames the tension of the first few chapters. Would Job maintain his integrity throughout this ordeal? Job 1:8 and 2:3

14 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources make it undoubtedly clear that Job was an innocent man. Would he accept only good from God and not adversity? (See 1:10.) The accuser believed that if God removed Job’s blessings, then Job would curse God (1:11; 2:5). In the end, we will see that Job did not curse God but in fact blessed God’s name (1:21-22).

EXPLORE THE TEXT

PERMISSION GRANTED (JOB 1:8-12) Verses 8-11 VERSES 8-11 When God learned the accuser had been roaming the earth, He asked if he 8 And the Lord said had come across His servant Job. The description of Job as God’s servant is important for the plot of this narrative. We know from verse 1 that Job was to Satan, “Have you innocent and had integrity. The title servant indicates that God Himself considered my servant acknowledged Job’s humble service. As readers, we are not in a place to Job, that there is none question Job’s godliness. In fact, God said that there is none like him on like him on the earth, a the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil. This three-part epitaph of Job’s virtuousness is grounded in blameless and upright the fact that Job feared God, which is paramount in wisdom literature as man, who fears God and true wisdom. turns away from evil?” The accuser was quick to land an adversarial question, namely: Why did 9 Job fear God? Satan did not question Job’s ethical character; he questioned Then Satan answered the motivation behind his ethical character. Did Job obey God as a means the Lord and said, to prosperity? In other words, was Job more interested in the gifts or the “Does Job fear God for Giver of those good gifts? As the beginning of chapter 1 made clear, Job no reason? 10 Have you was wealthy and enjoyed a large family that surrounded him in love. With all of these blessings, was Job protected from the harsh realities of the not put a hedge around world? If these blessings were removed, would Job’s character crumble? him and his house and The accusation was not without grounds. As the text makes clear, God all that he has, on every had blessed the work of Job’s hands. Even more, everything Job touched multiplied with rapid increase. side? You have blessed Scripture does motivate godly behavior with rewards for the faithful. the work of his hands, At the same time, isn’t godly behavior instructed regardless of the situation and his possessions have in which people might find themselves? In most cases in Scripture, faithful increased in the land. men and women did not enjoy the benefits of material wealth like Job. 11 Nonetheless, they were faithful. But stretch out your The test proposed by the accuser in verse 11 was cunning and would hand and touch all that reveal the sort of man Job was. It is important at this point to address the he has, and he will curse nature of Job’s innocence before God. We are only in the first chapter of this complicated book but already deep into the complexities of Job. The you to your face.” story of Job does not negate the words of Paul in Romans 3:10 (“None is righteous, no, not one”) or render the saving work of Christ unnecessary. Paul was clear that no one is righteous, not one. Therefore, the innocence of Job does not mean that he lived a life of absolute perfection. In fact, Job admitted his shortcomings in the dialogues to come. A key to sorting out

Session 1 : Faith Tested 15 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources the question of Job’s innocence is found early in the first chapter, namely, in the accuser’s question: Does Job fear God for no reason? Job passed the test of innocence because of his response in the face of loss of his wealth and health. His response revealed no flawed motive for his love of God. Job was innocent in the sense that he did not deserve the tragedies that had befallen him. Job is not portrayed as sinless but as one who demonstrated his innocent motives in response to the tragedies. We know there is only one truly innocent and righteous Person to ever walk the earth. In many ways, the temptation of Jesus (Luke 4:4-13) serves as a reverse picture of what happened here in Job. The accuser tested Job by taking away all of Job’s blessings; Jesus was tested by being offered all the earthly blessings. Job was faced with involuntary suffering to test his innocence. Jesus voluntarily faced suffering so that all could be declared righteous through Him. The court case that we first hear about in Job 1–2 ended with Jesus. Satan was defeated in both encounters. For the accuser, Job was presumed to love God as a means to an end, the end being material prosperity. It’s almost as if the accuser painted God as some sort of cosmic vending machine, if one inserted tokens of obedience, then he or she could expect a reward. Thus, the accuser was willing to bet that when all of Job’s material blessings were taken away, Job would curse God. However, there are no bets with God. God has no equal and does not wager.

Verse 12 VERSE 12 It is rather surprising that Satan was allowed into the presence of God. He came as the adversary of the righteous man of God. In this case, God allowed 12 And the Lord said to Satan to follow through with his proposal but with one condition. In verse Satan, “Behold, all that 12, the accuser was granted permission to attack all of Job’s possessions but against him do not stretch out your hand. Thus, Satan set out to destroy those he has is in your hand. close to Job and the possessions Job held close. Again, one must remember Only against him do not that the accuser is powerful but not equal to God. The full reasons for God’s stretch out your hand.” permission to carry out this test are hidden in His mysterious providential will. Isaiah 55:9 reminds us: “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So Satan went out from so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.” the presence of the Lord. We know from the entirety of Scripture that God is intrinsically good. One might read this passage and question the goodness of God based on how these events played out. Regardless of the changing circumstances, God’s goodness does not change. Even when the evil one seeks opportunities to attack God’s faithful followers, we can hold fast knowing that God is good and faithful to us. The process of sanctification is a journey. At this point in the narrative, we have just set out on our journey with God’s suffering servant. What God will providentially work in Job is yet to be seen.

Many health, wealth and prosperity teachers equate earthly blessings with heavenly favor. How does this passage counter that claim?

16 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources ATTACK EXECUTED (JOB 1:13-19) Verses 13-19 VERSES 13-16 At this point the accuser has left God’s presence with permission to execute 13 Now there was a the test on Job. On a day his children were celebrating in their oldest brother’s house, Job began to receive the reports of tragedy. All of these day when his sons and things happened in one day. daughters were eating Job 1:4-5 indicates that Job’s seven sons took turns having banquets and drinking wine in in their homes, and their three sisters would come to join them in the their oldest brother’s festivities. In ancient Near Eastern culture it would have been understood 14 the oldest son would have begun the seven-banquet cycle. The cycle would house, and there came have proceeded to the next oldest and so on to the youngest, who would a messenger to Job and have entertained everyone in the final seventh banquet of the cycle. said, “The oxen were Verse 5 indicates that after the seventh banquet and before the next round of banquets commenced at the oldest son’s home, Job sent for his children plowing and the donkeys to purify them and to offer burnt offerings on their behalf. There is no hint feeding beside them, that what his children were doing was sinful, but like any godly parent, 15 and the Sabeans fell Job was concerned for the spiritual well-being of his children. As the priest upon them and took of his family, Job wanted to make sure all was well for his children in relationship to God. By regularly rising early in the morning to offer burnt them and struck down sacrifices for his children, Job demonstrated he understood the necessity the servants with the and power of an atoning sacrifice for the forgiveness of sin. He did not edge of the sword, and want his children to fall into the sin that Satan hoped Job himself would commit. It was immediately after Job demonstrated his devotion and faith I alone have escaped to in God by offering sacrifices that this succession of catastrophes occurred. tell you.” 16 While he The first (1:14-15) and third (1:17) tragedies were executed by the hands was yet speaking, there of men, the second (1:16) and forth (1:18-19) tragedies were caused by came another and said, natural disasters. We also know that Satan was the one at work behind the scenes. It is important for our understanding of the dialogue to come that “The fire of God fell in the worldview of Job’s day such events were interpreted not as random from heaven and burned tragedies but as signs of divine wrath. up the sheep and the Note the repetition that while each messenger was yet speaking, there came another. The reader is meant to see that each successive wave of tragic servants and consumed news came swiftly. The rapid sequence of hearing these things must have them, and I alone have been overwhelmingly devastating to Job. escaped to tell you.” The size of Job’s herds was enormous compared to what was common in the ancient Near East. (See 1:3.) Without warning, his oxen, donkeys, sheep, and camels were all taken away. Job’s household had also fallen, for all of his servants were slaughtered by sword or disseminated by fire. As if all that was not enough, a great wind swept through the desert and collapsed the house on his children who were celebrating with one another. Can you imagine the trauma of this moment? It is one thing to lose earthly possessions. Wealth can always be reacquired. But Job’s sons and daughters? Even the thought of such tragedy is enough to bring someone psychological anguish. The reality of such things is enough to bring someone to absolute despair. Remember that the challenge Satan proposed was that none of God’s people love Him more than they love themselves. Their love for God was self-centered.

Session 1 : Faith Tested 17 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources This is one of the central issues of Job: the integrity of faith in spite of suffering. Within minutes, Job was hit from all sides with the most VERSES 17-19 devastating news, and each announcement was worse than the one before, 17 While he was yet until the news reached a devastating climax. These four tragedies appeared to Job that all the forces of heaven and earth had turned hostile toward speaking, there came him. The readers have the sense of a man whose world was demolished. another and said, “The It is important to note that Job was not aware of the exchange between Chaldeans formed three God and Satan and had no explanation for his losses. Believers are not immune from experiencing calamity and loss. Suffering is no respecter groups and made a raid of persons. on the camels and took them and struck down Can you imagine what might have gone through Job’s thoughts in these the servants with the moments of tragedy? What are several characteristic responses we might edge of the sword, and have when tragedy strikes? I alone have escaped to tell you.” 18 While he was yet speaking, there came another and said, “Your sons and daughters were TRUST MAINTAINED (JOB 1:20-22) eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s Verses 20-22 house, 19 and behold, a In verses 13-19 Job was brought to his knees in despair as the successive great wind came across wave of tragic news crashed against him unrelentingly. His children were gone. The earthly wealth he had accumulated had vanished. All he had left the wilderness and at this point was his own health and his wife. As readers, we can imagine struck the four corners the possible reactions one might have to such tragedy. Would he blame of the house, and it fell God? Would he blame his children, potentially thinking they had done something to warrant such judgment? Would he seek retaliation on the upon the young people, Sabeans and the Chaldeans? Would he spend the rest of his life blaming and they are dead, and himself? Against all of these possible responses, we wait to hear from Job. I alone have escaped to When he opened his mouth, it was somewhat shocking in comparison to tell you.” what we might naturally think would come forth. In verse 20 Job arose and tore his robe and shaved his head. Tearing one’s clothes and shaving one’s head was a sign of grief, mourning, and self-humiliation. (See Gen. 37:34; Deut. 21:12; Jer. 36:24; 2 Kings 2:12.) However, when Job spoke he did not lament. Instead, he accepted his fate and acknowledged that God had brought all of this on him. In fact, he worshiped the Lord who had taken all these things from him. It was much like the Teacher in Ecclesiastes who proclaimed, “As he came from his mother’s womb he shall go again, naked as he came, and shall take nothing for his toil that he may carry away in his hand” (Eccl. 5:15). The statement in verse 21 is a simple and powerful reflection on the transient nature of the blessings of this life. Everything we have is a gift from the hand of God. All of us, including Job, come into this world with nothing and leave with nothing. What God gives and what God takes away

18 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources is up to His sovereign will. Job understood this, and as harsh as it may seem, had a proper perspective on life. One of the things this text teaches us is that believers can worship God even in the midst of life’s challenges, knowing He is sovereign. Job did not do as the accuser had predicted (v. 11). He did not curse God, in fact, he blessed His name! The most striking reality of this account is that Job demonstrated his devotion to God. He did not love God as a means to an end. He did not elevate the gifts above the Giver. He did not sin or blame God for anything. VERSES 20-22

In circumstances like these, it might be tempting to raise our fists at God 20 and rail against His sovereign work. But Job worshiped and did not ascribe Then Job arose and any wrongdoing to God. The text reminds us:The Lord gave, and the tore his robe and shaved Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord. What we learn his head and fell on the from this text is that believers show the depth of their faith in adversity. ground and worshiped. Most believers do not experience the level of suffering Job did. In 21 this sense, Job is not like every person. However, we can learn from Job’s And he said, “Naked I response to suffering. If we love God only for what He gives us and not for came from my mother’s Himself, then we are serving ourselves, not Him. Regardless of what we as womb, and naked shall believers might suffer, we are always in the hands of a loving God. The Giver of our earthly gifts is much greater than the gifts. The Book of Job teaches I return. The Lord gave, us that even our experiences of suffering are temporary. Sometimes, in and the Lord has taken His wise providence, God allows us to face suffering to strengthen our away; blessed be the trust in Him. name of the Lord.” 22 In More importantly, this narrative points us forward to Jesus. We can see how Job’s deep piety in suffering prefigures that greater Man, all this Job did not sin or Jesus, who innocently suffered the wrath of God in order to refute the charge God with wrong. accusations of the accuser. Jesus, the truly innocent and righteous Servant of God suffered so that we would not have to face the greater tragedy of being vanquished from God’s presence for all of eternity. Jesus took on the curse of death for our sin, so that we, like Job, could rise and bless His name.

What does Job’s response to tragedy teach us? What are a few biblical truths that serve as the foundations for Job’s response?

FOCUS ATTENTION MINI-LECTURE: Highlight that Job is based on the actual experiences of a PREPARE: Display Pack Item 1 (Map: particular person named Job who lived Ancient Near East During The Patriarchs) and in the country of Uz. The Old Testament Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) prophet Ezekiel (Ezek. 14:14,20) revealed to be referenced during the session. On a that Job was a historical figure as real as white board or chart paper write the words Noah and Daniel. In the New Testament, “Unexpected Tragedies.” James, the half-brother of Jesus, indicated GUIDE: Direct attention to the words that Job was a real person (Jas. 5:11). Paul on the board and ask: When you see also quoted two times from the Book of these words, what comes to your mind? Job, providing even more authenticity. (Examples: natural disasters, world crisis, TRANSITION: We learn in Job 1:1-5 that Job personal or family loss). Record the group was viewed by his family and others as a man responses on the chart as they are shared. of integrity. He was blessed with a large family ASK: What is the most difficult challenge and wealth. Yet the Bible also tells us that Job you have faced? What did you learn about was a faithful follower of God. what you trusted during that challenge? (PSG p. 10) READ: Invite a volunteer to read Job 1:8-12 as the group listens for the TRANSITION: Today we begin a study of attitudes displayed by God and Satan. the Book of Job. Job, a real man, experienced unexpected tragedies in his life and revealed the DRAW: At the top of a white board or depth of his faith as he faced those challenges. chart paper write the word characters and Job is sometimes viewed as a difficult book then construct a three-column chart with to understand because it addresses questions the headings God, Satan, and Job above that all people grapple with as they cope with each column. unexpected tragedies. IDENTIFY: Lead the group to identify the attitudes and actions they heard displayed EXPLORE THE TEXT in these verses, and record their responses under the appropriate column. CONTEXT: Distribute copies of Pack Item 7 (Handout: Job Time Line). Note the time ASK: Why is it important for believers to frame of Job—about two thousand years remember that while we may be surprised before Christ—and how many other and shocked by sudden calamities, God is not cultures developed parallel stories to Job. and He is in complete control? (PSG, p. 13) Using Understand the Context (PSG, p. 11) and Pack Item 1 (Map: Ancient Near East EXPLAIN: In these verses Satan questioned During The Patriarchs), point out that Job’s motives for worshiping God. The Personal “Jeremiah the prophet mentioned the land Study Guide (PSG) shares that the heart of the of Uz being in proximity to Edom, south of matter is the question, “Can a person truly love the land of Canaan (Jer. 25:20; Lam. 4:21)” God for who He is and not just for what he or (PSG, p. 11). Utilize Pack Item 2 (Outlines she can get from God?” (PSG, p. 14). God, more of Job and Ecclesiastes) to provide an powerful than Satan, granted permission for overview of the study of Job. Job’s faith to be tested.

20 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources READ: Call on a volunteer to read SUMMARIZE AND aloud Job 1:13-19, directing the group to CHALLENGE listen for the specific actions Satan took against Job. REFLECT: Guide the group to consider how they would respond to the following GUIDE: Refer to pages 15–16 of the PSG to question: How should knowing that Satan help the group understand the passage. seeks opportunities to attack those who ASK: Direct the group to turn to a neighbor are faithful followers of God affect how and address the following question: What they think and live? (PSG, p. 14) can believers learn about the timing, EVALUATE: Now change the question suddenness, and severity of Satan’s from “how they think and live” to how attacks from these verses? (PSG, p. 16) “I think and live,” directing each individual to personalize the question in their READ: Invite a volunteer to read own context. Job 1:20-22, as the group listens for Job’s response. SHARE: Relate one insight that you as a leader gained from these verses. IDENTIFY: Guide the group to share Job’s responses to the unexpected tragedies he REREAD: Read Job 1:21 together as a faced, recording their answers on the third group. Distribute copies of Pack Item 9 column of the chart. (Handout: Memory Verses Bookmark). Encourage each person to memorize the DISCUSS: How does viewing God as verse to provide encouragement when faced sovereign over all His creation impact how with unexpected tragedies. a person responds to losses in this life? (PSG, p. 17) SUMMARIZE: Referencing Apply the Text (p. 18), summarize the points gained from STUDY: Lead the group to complete the the session. Bible Skill activity on page 17 of the PSG. Then discuss:How do these examples help ASK: Lead the group to complete the you properly frame your expectations of first question set on page 18 of the PSG: the Christian life? How does their faith Who do you know who is going through teach you and shape your response to a challenging time? What insights from suffering? this passage can you share with them as encouragement? TRANSITION: Job remained confident in the Lord in the midst of extreme difficulties and PRAY: Thank God for His sovereignty over continued to offer praise to his sovereign Lord. all things. Thank Him for the working of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers in the face of challenging times.

MUSIC RESEARCH Lead the group to sing or listen to the Collect Bible concordances or lyrics of “The Solid Rock,” by Edward Mote. commentaries. Highlight the second verse and invite the group to share how this hymn could be Pre-enlist a volunteer to prepare a brief connected to Job 1:8-22. Emphasize how overview of the background of the Book important it is to cling to Christ during of Job. Direct the volunteer to a Bible difficult times. Conclude the session by dictionary or commentary for assistance. reading chorally or by singing the chorus. Encourage the person to address authorship, timing, and geography related to Uz, the Sabeans, and the Chaldeans DRAMA during the time of Job. Be certain that Job Pre-enlist two people to present the is presented as a real person and Satan as conversation between God and Satan in a real being who is less powerful than the a dialogue format. Divide the dramatic sovereign God. reading into two scenes (Job 1:6-12; 2:2-6) to be used at the appropriate time during CASE STUDY the group time. Place the group into teams of two to four persons. Direct each team to develop a case VISUAL study of an unexpected tragedy, followed Gather paper and pencils. by a question related to the person’s response to their circumstances. Guide Distribute one 81/2 x 11 piece of paper to each team to present their case study and a team of two to four people. Guide the follow up with a discussion of the difficulty team to fold the paper into four sections of remaining faithful and praising God in by folding the paper in half twice. As you difficult circumstances. move through the session, stop after each scene presented in Job 1:8-22 to allow time for the group to sketch the scene described using stick figures. Lead the groups to add a bubble comment for each scene. Scenes might include the two conversations between God and Satan, the response of Job’s wife, and Job’s response. Stress to the group that a quick sketch and comment is all that is needed, not a detailed drawing.

JOB 14:1-14 MEMORY VERSE: JOB 13:15

STUDY Job 14:1-14 to discern the messages Prepare to Display: shared by Job’s three friends and Job’s Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) response. Highlight the questions posed by Pack Item 5 (Job’s Statements of Faith) Job in his prayer. Be prepared to introduce Job’s friends using Pack Item 10 (Handout: Pack Item 6 (Key Verses: Job 13:15-16) Friends of Job). Make Copies of: Pack Item 10 (Handout: Friends of Job) CREATE a teaching plan for your group using the ideas on pages 30–32. Focus on how Job CONSULT the Explore the Bible website for dealt with his adversity and found hope in God’s ways of using a current news event to start and promise of life in heaven and how he reveals the conclude the session (goExploreTheBible.com/ depth of his faith as he prayed to God. LeaderExtras).

GATHER the following items: REINFORCE the study by prayerfully evaluating Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs) how you have responded to adversity in the past and be prepared to share a testimony with the group.

Date of My Bible Study:______23 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE Many people enjoy an athletic competition between teams or individuals Last Things who are at the top of their sport. But when a subpar team or player is The righteous in their resurrected matched against a juggernaut, we may not tune in, especially if that subpar and glorified bodies will receive team is our favorite team. Even the subpar team’s players may appear listless their reward and will dwell because they have lost hope in the contest. Losing hope in the future saps forever in heaven with the Lord strength in the present. Job 14 highlights that believers will find strength (1 John 2:28). in the present when they look to God and hope only in Him.

(In PSG, p . 19) Share about a time when your favorite team or player was outmatched going into the contest. What emotions did you observe as the contest unfolded?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL JOB 2:11–14:22 Compare related passages. Between the Book of Job’s introduction (1:2–2:13) and conclusion (42:7-17), Job’s friends attempted to we are taken on a journey of poetic dialogue that allows us to wrestle with explain his suffering. Read Job some of the greatest questions of life, suffering, and death. In this week’s 4:7-8 (Eliphaz); 8:4-6 (Bildad); and passage, we find ourselves in the middle of the narrative. In this narrative, 11:13-20 (Zophar), and summarize the main characters grapple with suffering as it relates to what it reveals their explanations of Job’s about the sufferer and how it squares with God’s providential governance suffering. How do their views of of the world. suffering compare to commonly One of the key questions of the book is this: What is the nature of accepted ways of understanding wisdom and where can it be found? In Job, we understand that the order suffering today? Read Job 42:7. of the universe is not fully revealed and we must learn to trust in the God What was God’s response to who presides over the universe. For this reason, one might argue that the the explanations given by Job’s Book of Job is an exploration of the way God works in the world and the friends, and what warning does appropriate human response to Him. this serve for us? Each one of Job’s friends showed compassion and attempted to comfort Job (2:11), but in the end their words failed. Job’s friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar—all fell back to the principle of retribution, namely, that whatever people receive in life is a direct result of their behavior. The Book of Job does not contradict this teaching (42:10) but does nuance our understanding of retribution. In this case, God did allow Job to suffer the fate that we might expect to fall on someone openly defiant of God. Therefore, it is perfectly understandable that Job’s friends believed that he had done something to deserve such harsh treatment from God. For this reason, they continually urged Job to repent of whatever sin caused this divine anger. As we know from the text, and Job himself knew, he had

24 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources done nothing to merit this suffering. In fact, the text for this session begins to unveil Job’s wisdom in this matter. Job understood that his situation was unique because of his innocence. As Job wrestled with despair in chapter 14, we are given a glimpse into the thoughts of a man who endured immense suffering. We must remember where we are in this passage as it relates to the entirety of redemptive history. God has chosen to progressively reveal Himself from Genesis to Revelation. Though Job could not fully see the hope that lies ahead, we will come to see how his story ends. More importantly, we know as believers how the whole story of redemption ends in Jesus Christ. The gospel does not leave us in despair but gives us a sure and steady hope in the face of suffering and death. As we all know, suffering in the world leads the believer to consider the greater questions of life.

EXPLORE THE TEXT

QUESTIONS (JOB 14:1-6) Verses 1-2 Job maintained that he had done nothing to deserve his suffering. Even VERSES 1-2 still, God providentially allowed him to walk through unimaginable circumstances. While Job maintained his innocence, he also proclaimed 1 “Man who is born of that suffering and adversity should be expected of all humans. The word a woman is few of days translated trouble in verse 1 carries with it connotations of anxiety, stress, and fear. All men and women live a somewhat brief life, and during this time and full of trouble. suffering is a common experience. Even still, our desires for the duration 2 He comes out like a of life often fluctuate based on our circumstances. Even Job seemed to flower and withers; he fluctuate on this matter. In different parts of the book he declared that life flees like a shadow and is too short (9:25-26), and on the other hand that life is too long (7:1-5). In verse 2, Job focused on the brevity of life and utilized common continues not. metaphors to explain this phenomenon. He compared the brevity of life to a flower or shadow. It seems here that Job was espousing the idea that the brevity of life is not such a bad thing. Flowers are admired for their beauty and the pleasure they bring. Even still, the vibrant colors and life of a flower are fragile and quickly dry out and fade away. Flowers are a common imagery in the Old Testament for the fragility of human life. (See Ps. 103:15-16; Isa. 40:6-8.) The imagery of a shadow is even more austere, seeing that shadows have no substance and quickly disappear. Job’s friend Bildad utilized this imagery in Job 8:1-10. Because of the fragility of human life, Job wondered why God even bothered to focus His attention on him (14:3).

Verses 3-6 With all this in mind, Job felt affirmed in his belief that God is absolutely sovereign over every person and in control of every moment of his or her life. One’s days are determined by the wisdom of God and no human can

Session 2 : Hope Defined 25 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources cross the limits set by God. Instead of bargaining with God about the duration of his life, Job pleaded with God about the quality of his life. Like VERSES 3-6 he did in 7:19, Job appealed to God to leave him alone. He utilized the 3 And do you open your imagery of a hired hand in verse 6. A hired worker labors in difficulty for his pay, and Job believed he had earned enough for one lifetime. For Job it eyes on such a one and seemed that payday would be the day of his death, the day when his difficult bring me into judgment suffering would come to an end. with you? 4 Who can bring a clean thing out God doesn’t always deliver us out of of an unclean? There is suffering but intends to deliver us not one. 5 Since his days through suffering. are determined, and the number of his months is Job had begun to reflect on the brevity of life and the reality of judgment awaiting all people. This judgment is deserved since all humans are impure. with you, and you have Job pleaded for God to leave him alone so he could gain some type of appointed his limits that relief from his pain during this short lifetime. From other passages, we are he cannot pass, 6 look reminded of God’s patience and care for His people. So Job’s request was certainly not at odds with the grace of God. However, we also understand away from him and leave that in His sovereign providence, God doesn’t always deliver us out of him alone, that he may suffering but intends to deliver us through suffering. The effect of such enjoy, like a hired hand, trials often leads the faithful to cling to God even more tightly. As it has his day. been often said, sometimes we don’t realize God is all we need until God is all we have. In this way, we can learn to trust God and see His comfort in times of affliction. These things can be a means God uses to turn our hearts and focus our hopes on Him.

How does the doctrine of God’s sovereignty and belief in His providential rule over the world shape your perspective on suffering and death?

DESPAIR (JOB 14:7-12) Verses 7-12 In verse 5, Job began examining the theme of human mortality and continued it here by contrasting it with nature. The first image Job utilized was that of a tree. One does not need to be an arborist to understand that trees can be cut down to a stump yet continue to live and grow with the right nutrients and water. If you’ve ever tried to remove a tree on your property, you know that the stump and its roots can persist in sprouting new vegetation after the body of the tree is gone. Job utilized the language of a sapling to illustrate that even old roots can bring forth new life. However, it is not this way with humans. When people die, they fade away. Unlike a

26 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources tree that can utilize water as a source of life, when a person breathes his or her last breath, no amount of air can bring him or her back to life. The second contrast in which Job focused was a body of water. As water dries up from the lake and a river dries up, it is unlikely they will come to life again. It does not seem that Job was allowing for rainfall or other forms of precipitation in his analogy. The same is true of humans. Humanly speaking, once they lie down and die, they will not rise up again. Furthermore, humans will not awake from their sleep till the heavens are no more. This ancient expression, till the heavens are no more, has been likened to the modern expression “until hell freezes over.” Job was speaking of death as finality. For Job, death has the last word. Death is the final sleep.

Death does not have the last word. VERSES 7-12 7 “For there is hope for Humans have a strong will to live, and we should avoid falling into a tree, if it be cut down, despair over Job’s fatalistic language. His circumstances created the context for his words. His use of artistic metaphor was meant to paint a that it will sprout again, stark reminder of the last enemy, death. Near the end of the Old Testament, and that its shoots will God revealed the concept of a resurrection from the dead. (See Isa. 26:19.) not cease. 8 Though its The concept of resurrection is more fully developed in the New Testament. root grow old in the The language after the resurrection of Christ is full of hope for believers. In First Corinthians 15, the apostle Paul reminded us that since Christ has earth, and its stump die been raised, Christians will also experience their own Easter morning. It is in the soil, 9 yet at the fascinating that, like Job, the New Testament writers often used metaphors scent of water it will bud from nature and sleep to describe both death and resurrection. Where Job seems to have focused on the natural finality of death, the writers of and put out branches like the New Testament speak to the supernatural victory over death (1 Cor. a young plant. 10 But a 15:50-58). In this sense, death does not have the last word. Even though man dies and is laid low; death is an unwelcome enemy, Christians do not weep over death as those man breathes his last, who have no hope (1 Thess. 4:13). 11 Scripture teaches that all people will be raised physically from the dead and where is he? As on the last day. The difference is that Christians will be raised to everlasting waters fail from a lake glory; those who do not trust in Christ will be raised to judgment (John and a river wastes away 5:28-29; Acts 24:15). In many ways, the thought of death can be a means 12 God uses to bring people to ask the larger questions of eternity. Implicit in and dries up, so a man this warning is a certain grace. Every warning before the final judgment is lies down and rises not an act of mercy. Job’s reflections in this passage likely mirror the thoughts again; till the heavens of those around us who despair over their circumstances. Learning to are no more he will not enter into someone’s suffering and to weep with those who weep can be a powerful aid in ministering to them with the hope of the gospel. Think of awake or be roused out how many people in your life have come to faith or returned to faith in the of his sleep. midst of or following a season of suffering.

Session 2 : Hope Defined 27 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources How does the gospel of Christ drive out despair and comfort us in our grief? How does this reality distinguish our response to suffering and death from the response of unbelievers?

HOPE (JOB 14:13-14) Verses 13-14 VERSES 13-14 In the previous section, Job portrayed death as the final word in the natural world. Unlike a tree that draws water to sprout new life, a dead person 13 Oh that you would cannot draw breath and return to life. Like a dried up body of water with no hide me in Sheol, that natural resources for replenishment, a dead person cannot awake from the sleep of death. Therefore, in reply to Job’s question—if a man dies, shall you would conceal me he live again?—we would expect his answer to be no. (See Job 10:20-22.) until your wrath be However, verses 13-14 seem to hold out hope; namely, Job wished that past, that you would death did not have the last word. At the very least, Job wished that death would hide him in •Sheol from the anger of God that could have possibly appoint me a set time, led to all of his suffering. 14 and remember me! If In the Old Testament, the concept of Sheol depicted the grave or a man dies, shall he live the abode of the dead. Sheol was also considered to be located in the again? All the days of my depths of the earth, thus illustrating Job’s desire to be hidden until God’s anger passed. In fact, some passages indicate that the Old Testament service I would wait, till saints spoke of Sheol as the state of being cut off from God (Ps. 88:3-5; my renewal should come. Isa. 38:11), while other passages seem to present the opposite (Ps. 139:8). Being the place of the dead, Sheol was considered an inescapable abode, a final destination. The focus of the present section reveals that Job had reached a new level of despair in his suffering. If we were to isolate Job’s thoughts in their scriptural context, it is understandable why he was wallowing in despair. However, these verses also reveal that Job pondered the possibility that he had angered God, even though he did not see himself as deserving of his afflictions. His thought at this point was focused on a desire for his suffering to end, even if it meant his death. Job assumed that if God had time to calm down, he might be shown relief. Job’s hope was that if he were gone, God would miss him (14:15b). In essence, Job characterized death as a place to escape suffering. He expressed a longing for life after death, realizing that this future life would come only through God’s action. Keep in mind that this passage is a glimpse into the thoughts of a man who had been driven to despair by his suffering. It is descriptive of Job’s current state of mind, not prescriptive for how we are to deal with suffering. It is possible that many believers long for death as relief. But life is a gift from God. Because life is given by God, only God has the right to choose when to take it.

28 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources As believers, we find hope in the gospel of Jesus Christ. As believers in Christ, we are hidden from the anger of God against sin. Scripture teaches that Jesus descended to the dead and on the third day rose again. This truth is articulated in passages such as Matthew 12:40 and Ephesians 4:8-10. In these passages, Jesus is depicted as truly dead after His crucifixion, that is, in the grave or in the realm of the dead. The good news of the gospel brings us a clarity of hope that had not yet been fully revealed in the time of Job. Now that the Bible is complete, we as believers have the advantage of seeing the whole picture. The Bible teaches us that Jesus actually died but rose again and therefore achieved victory over death (2 Tim. 1:10). The Bible also teaches us that Jesus defeated death. If we are in Him, we have nothing to fear or no reason to despair (Heb. 2:14). Finally, we know that Jesus is the firstfruits, the hope of what’s to come after death (1 Cor. 15:20-23). Christ leads us through no darker rooms than He went through before. Having tasted death Himself, He can support us while we taste it and take our hands, reminding us: “I’ve been there before.” In Christ, death does not have the last word. Jesus holds the keys of death (Rev. 1:17-19). Furthermore, the only way to be hidden from the just wrath of God against sin is to be hidden in Christ (Col. 3:3). Because of Christ, believers can find hope in God’s promise of resurrection life in the presence of God. In fact, the promise of heaven is the sure and solid hope we have in Christ Jesus.

How does the hope of the resurrection fortify your faith and sustain you in difficult times?

FOCUS ATTENTION STATE: Job desired to stay faithful to the end, but all three of his friends rebuked him. Zophar PREPARE: Display Pack Item 2 (Outlines even called him a hypocrite for claiming he was of Job and Ecclesiastes), Pack Item 5 (Poster: innocent of their charges. In Job 13:20–14:22, Job’s Statements of Faith), and Pack Item 6 Job poured out his heart in prayer, imploring (Key Verses: Job 13:15-16) to be referenced God to stop persecuting him. He told his during the session. Prepare to play the fight friends that if they couldn’t help, they should song or hold up memorabilia related to a remain silent because the matter was between favorite team. An optional idea would be to Job and God. wear a shirt with your favorite team’s logo. TRANSITION: In today’s study, we will WELCOME: Once most have arrived, examine a portion of Job’s prayer as he turned ask: Have you ever attended a sporting to God for hope in his depressing circumstances. event where one team got behind early and appeared to just give up? Direct each person to respond to the question with a READ: Invite a volunteer to read thumbs up or a thumbs down signal. Job 14:1-6, while the group listens specifically for clues to Job’s state of mind. DISCUSS: Guide the group to describe to a person sitting next to them a time IDENTIFY: Lead the group to identify when their favorite team or player was the two metaphors used by Job as he outmatched going into the contest. What prayed to God. emotions did you observe as the contest DISPLAY: Point to Pack Item 5 (Poster: unfolded? (PSG, p. 19) Job’s Statements of Faith). Review the TRANSITION: Similar to how a player’s or statements Job made as recorded in various team’s hope wavers during an overwhelming chapters of the Book of Job. Then ask: loss, Job reacted to his circumstances in a How does reflecting on the relatively short depressed state. duration of human life cause a person to consider some of the greater questions of life? (PSG, p. 22) EXPLORE THE TEXT GUIDE: Place the group in pairs. Direct CONTEXTUALIZE: Utilizing Understand the pairs to reread verses 3-6 to identify the Context (PSG, p. 20) and Pack Item 2 the three questions Job asked and his (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes), review the rhetorical response. previous group time. STATE: Job recognized he was a sinner before SUMMARIZE: Briefly recap the dialogues Almighty God. He realized that except for between Job and his three friends while God’s grace and mercy, he was hopeless. Job’s distributing Pack Item 10 (Handout: petition to God was to grant him rest from his Friends of Job) for use throughout the sufferings. group time.

30 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources ASK: Why is it good to raise the greater DISPLAY: Direct attention to Pack Item 5 questions of life to God in the face of (Poster: Job’s Statements of Faith) and read suffering? the first statement on the poster: Job 14:14. TRANSITION: In the portion of Job’s prayer READ: Invite a volunteer to read that we examined today, he progressed from Job 14:7-12, as the group listens for the questioning despair to expressing his hope for contrast Job presented between nature eternal life. and people. HIGHLIGHT: Emphasize the Key Doctrine GUIDE: Lead the group to identify key (Last Things) on page 26 of the PSG: The words and phrases that contrast nature and righteous in their resurrected and glorified people in these verses. bodies will receive their reward and will dwell DISCUSS: In teams of two to four people forever in heaven with the Lord (1 John 2:28). discuss the following questions: How does Job show us the importance of looking at SUMMARIZE AND life from God’s perspective rather than our own? (PSG, p. 24) CHALLENGE SHARE: Guide the group to review the HIGHLIGHT: Secure responses to this statement from the PSG (p. 25): Having bulleted statements under Apply the faith in God does not always mean having the Text on page 27 of the PSG. Discuss what answers to our questions, but it means taking other insights we can gain as a result of our questions to God who has all the answers. today’s session. It means trusting in God in spite of the fact REFLECT: How have you responded to that in His providential wisdom He has chosen God when you have felt despair over your not to reveal to us all that He is doing. circumstances? How have your responses to difficult situations impacted others? DISCUSS: How does keeping our eyes on Christ and His gift of eternal life help us STATE: When Christians respond with overcome feelings of despair? (PSG, p. 25) hope even in the midst of overwhelming circumstances the light of Christ READ: Read aloud Job 14:13-14 as the shines through. group listens to determine Job’s transition READ: Read aloud Job 13:15-16, pointing from despair to hope. to Pack Item 6 (Key Verses: Job 13:15-16) STATE: Job asserted that if he could hope in displayed in the room. Note that verse 15 a resurrection from the dead, then he would is the memory verse for this week. Then wait on God until his relief would happen. lead the group to reflect on the impact a (PSG, p. 26) life lived for God even in the midst of great suffering has on others. Discuss:With ASK: Why is putting one’s hope in God whom can you share this verse this week? the only reliable way to face feelings of despair? (PSG, p. 26) PRAY: Close in prayer, thanking God for His constant presence. Ask Him to help us honor Him in all circumstances. Praise Him for providing a secure future for all who trust in Him.

MUSIC PHYSICAL As the group arrives, have the song “Living Lead the group to respond to the following Hope,” by Phil Wickham, playing in the statements by moving to a specified background. To conclude the session, read corner of the room that matches their aloud each verse, signaling the group to opinion. Label the corners agree, strongly chorally read the chorus at the appropriate agree, disagree, and strongly disagree. After time. Play the song again as people leave. everyone has made their responses, allow time for a representative from the majority RELATIONAL/REFLECTIVE decision and a representative from the minority decision to share their thinking Gather index cards and pencils. on why they made the choice to agree Distribute index cards to teams of two or disagree. to four persons and direct each team to • Hope is fragile in difficult times. imagine that they were Job. Ask them to • S ilence is seldom practiced during discuss and then write on the card a three- trying circumstances. or four-sentence diary entry that expresses • B elievers should never display their the despair and hope that Job displayed despair so they don’t weaken their in these verses. Allow time for each team testimony to others. to share their diary entry as a summary of • F riends always offer timely support in the session. times of suffering.

DRAMA VISUAL Enlist one person to read Job 14:1-14, Gather paper and markers. portraying Job in his monologue with God. Distribute paper and markers to each Utilize the same person to read Job 13:15-16 person. Direct the group to draw a large to conclude the session. question mark on the paper. Lead the group to record Job’s questions as they TESTIMONY appear throughout the passage. Encourage Pre-enlist a volunteer to share about a each person to turn the paper over and time when they experienced difficult privately record questions they would like circumstances that stretched their faith. to ask God. Encourage the person to relate specific Bible verses that encouraged them and actions by others that supported and strengthened them.

JOB 19:19-29 MEMORY VERSE: JOB 19:25

STUDY Job 19:19-29, to see how Job’s friends Prepare to Display: continued to disparage him and question his Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) faith. Highlight words or phrases that reveal Make Copies of: Job’s hope for the future. Consult Pack Item 13 Pack Item 10 (Handout: Friends of Job) (Handout: Redeemer in the Old Testament) for information about the word redeemer. Pack Item 13 (Handout: Redeemer in the Old Testament) CREATE a teaching plan for your group using the ideas on pages 40–42. Focus on how CONSULT QuickSource for additional questions other people may fail us, but God is always to use during the group time and review faithful. Emphasize that compassion rather the Explore the Bible Adult Commentary for than judgment is needed when people are additional biblical insights (available for experiencing hardships. purchase from LifeWay.com).

GATHER the following items: REINFORCE the study by texting or emailing Job 19:25 to individuals in the group. Remind Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs) them that you are praying for them. Chart paper and markers or white board markers

Date of My Bible Study:______33 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE A person doesn’t have to be alone to be lonely. We can be surrounded by Glorification people and yet not feel connected to them. That can happen even when Glorification is the culmination of sitting at a table with people we would count as friends. Such was the case salvation and is the final blessed with Job. He was surrounded by so-called friends and yet experienced the and abiding state of the redeemed sting of abandonment and loneliness because they had turned against him. (Titus 2:11-14). However, Job realized that even though his friends had abandoned him, the Lord never would.

(In PSG, p . 28) Think about a time when you felt alone even though you were surrounded by people. What factors make a person feel alone even when in a crowd?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL JOB 15:1–21:34 Use a Bible dictionary to better understand a word. The main section of Job follows the dialogue between Job and his three Read articles about “redeemer” friends (Eliphaz, Bildad, Zophar), who alternate in dialogue and response. in a Bible dictionary. Review Job’s friends assumed that his circumstances indicated he was at fault for his suffering and needed to repent. Throughout the dialogue, Job insisted Bible passages identified in he was innocent and there was no hidden guilt that served as the foundation the articles. What was the for his suffering. Ultimately, Job believed God allowed suffering to fall on significance of Job declaring him—had providentially ordained it—without providing him a reason. In that his redeemer was living? times of suffering we often look for meaning. However, there are times How does that image of a when no explicit connections can be made other than we live in a broken living redeemer impact how and sinful world. In general, suffering is no respecter of persons. we understand Christ’s work in The Book of Job addresses issues of suffering, the problem of evil, our redemption? the justification for God’s mysterious ways, the meaning of faith, and the nature of the relationship between God and mankind. But a key question of the book is this: What is the nature of wisdom and where can it be found? In Job, we understand that the order of the universe is not fully revealed to us, and we must learn to trust in the God who presides over the universe. Even still, Job’s friends maintained the belief that he was suffering punishment due to his wickedness. In Job’s responses, he refused to accept their explanation of his predicament, and he would not take responsibility for what they claimed (19:2-6). In chapter 19, Job responded in anger with complaints concerning Bildad’s treatment of him. In essence, Job asked how his friend Bildad could live with himself after harassing Job in this way, which added to his suffering (vv. 2-3). The focus of this chapter, however, doesn’t fall completely

34 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources on Job’s friends. In fact, 19:4-22 is essentially a charge against God. Job indicated that if indeed he had made a mistake, which he hadn’t, it would be in response to the treatment he had received from God. In other words, he was not suffering this treatment from God because of a previous action. At the conclusion of this speech, Job uttered some of the most famous words of the entire book when he expressed incredible hope in a heavenly Redeemer (vv. 23-29).

EXPLORE THE TEXT

FAILING FRIENDS (JOB 19:19-22) Verse 19 At the beginning of chapter 19, Job wondered why God was treating him VERSE 19 the way he was, a familiar question in the book thus far. He expanded on his questioning and lamented at the way his family and friends had 19 All my intimate despised him as well. Job was well aware that his friends assumed he was friends abhor me, and to blame for his suffering. In verse 4, however, Job proposed that even if he had done something wrong (even unintentionally), that was his own those whom I loved have problem and he certainly did not need others to compound it by treating turned against me. him without compassion. His friends had mounted their case against him, but Job deflected their accusations and aimed them at God. God was the one who had providentially brought this on, and He had not issued a reply to his cries for an explanation. The imagery Job utilized is striking, namely that God had hunted him like a wild animal and had treated him like an enemy, laying siege against him. With this as the context, Job focused on the problem at hand. The suffering he experienced had caused discord in all of his relationships. Not only did his family find him repulsive, hisintimate friends betrayed him. From Job’s perspective, no one was helping him. His friends were only adding to his suffering. One might expect sympathy from close friends, but in this case Job’s friends only turned against him. Unfortunate as it was, Job was alone in his misery.

Verse 20 Job shifted his focus from the anguish caused by his friends to his own VERSE 20 personal suffering. He utilized metaphor to explain that he was holding on for dear life. Not only did his skin barely cling to his bones, but he was 20 My bones stick to my barely making it by the skin of his teeth, symbolizing a close escape. This skin and to my flesh, and common idiomatic expression, which is still used today, communicates just barely accomplishing or avoiding something. It is clear from the book as I have escaped by the a whole that Job’s emotional and physical suffering witnessed to the fact skin of my teeth. that he had narrowly escaped his own death. It is amazing, considering the intensity of his trial, that Job still had his bearings.

Session 3 : Redemption Found 35 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Verses 21-22 VERSES 21-22 In light of this predicament, Job begged his friends for mercy. He was being touched by God and could use a break from the blows he was receiving 21 Have mercy on me, from them. Again, his closest friends not only pursued him but also have mercy on me, O added to his persecution. The question raised by Job was why his friends continued their relentless pursuit of him. The final words issued in verse 22 you my friends, for the are heartbreaking. Job basically asked, “When will enough be enough?” In hand of God has touched many ways, this question was directed at both his friends and God. As we me! 22 Why do you, like will see, they hadn’t had enough. Not only would his friends continue to debate him, but God also would challenge him in the chapters to come. God, pursue me? Why Job’s suffering seemed to have no end, and there was no relief in sight. are you not satisfied with How long would Job’s friends persist in accusing him and feel no shame my flesh? for doing so? Even if Job had done wrong, it was God’s prerogative to execute judgment, not theirs. Their social isolation only compounded his suffering. It is difficult to imagine the pain of having close friends react this way. One cannot help but be reminded of the apostle Paul’s words in Romans 12:15 to “weep with those who weep.” True friends are to identify with the others in the “ups and downs” of life. Friends should be a healing balm in painful times. People enduring hardships need others to show compassion to them. When there are sorrows, true friends minister sympathy. If anything, the reaction of Job’s friends in this book serve as an example of what not to do.

What are practical ways we can minister to others in times of suffering if we don’t have the answers to why they are suffering?

LIVING REDEEMER (JOB 19:23-27)

VERSES 23-24 The words of Job in verses 23-27 stand apart as the most notable in the entire book. These words are interpreted by many theologians as anticipating Jesus 23 “Oh that my words the Messiah. It is not insignificant that these words of hope abruptly appear were written! Oh that after an onslaught of despairing comments. This sudden burst of confidence would not be maintained for long, but while it lasted it was a powerful note they were inscribed in a of certainty in the midst of confusing and even chaotic suffering. book! 24 Oh that with an iron pen and lead they Verses 23-24 were engraved in the Job expressed his desire for his words to be recorded, Oh that with an iron rock forever! pen and lead they were engraved in the rock to last forever. Perhaps Job saw his life coming to an end and wanted these hopeful words to serve as his legacy for future generations. His desire was for his words to stand as a monument to be preserved to give wisdom for those who came after him. In many ways, this book itself serves as the fulfillment of his expressed desires. The central issue of the book is the nature of wisdom and where it can be found, and Job (despite his low points) becomes a sure and steady guide.

36 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Verses 25-27 The climax of this section stands out in verse 25, where Job declared with VERSES 25-27 confidence that hisRedeemer lives. The concept of a redeemer is first laid out in Leviticus 25, where a close relative may come to the aid of a 25 For I know that my suffering family member. In Leviticus, a redeemer may come to the aid Redeemer lives, and at of a relative in distress over property (Lev. 25:25-38) or one who needed support for personal well being (Lev. 25:47-55). In the Book of Ruth, Boaz the last he will stand not only functioned in both of these ways for Ruth but also took her to upon the earth. 26 And be his wife. God is referred to as a redeemer in several Old Testament after my skin has been passages (Pss. 19:14; 77:15; Isa. 41:14-16; 43:14; 48:17). In Exodus, God thus destroyed, yet in redeemed His people from slavery in Egypt (6:6; 15:13). All of these images together paint a picture that points to Christ the Messiah and Redeemer my flesh I shall see God, of His people. 27 whom I shall see for In this passage, Job seems to be referencing God as his Redeemer. myself, and my eyes Theologians who affirm this passage as looking forward to the Messiah note that Job’s faith was in a Redeemer who would rise from the earth. Job shall behold, and not envisioned this Redeemer triumphing over the grave, and doing so to Job’s another. My heart faints benefit. As verse 26 makes clear, Job expected he would be vindicated in a within me! “face-to-face” meeting with his God. This is a powerful statement of faith from a man whose plea throughout the text had been to gain an audience with God. He would not only receive a face-to-face meeting with God, but God would rise from the earth to redeem him. While the idea of Redeemer does not find its fullest expression until the New Testament in Jesus, here in the Book of Job the concept is central to Job’s hope. This hope first found its utterance in 9:32-35, where Job spoke of a mediator between himself and God. This mediator would allow Job not only to stand before God but also speak before God. In 16:19-21 this idea is developed further, where the mediator is believed to arbitrate with God on behalf of Job. As New Testament believers, we understand that ultimately Jesus Christ is the Mediator who will not only allow us to stand before God, but who also died for our sin so that He could plead our case before God the Father. It seems that Job affirmed not only that God heard his cries—even though He had been silent—but also that God would answer him in a personal meeting. It is not clear when Job believed this meeting would take place. Regardless if Job understood this meeting as taking place before he died or in the bodily resurrection, the truth still stood to provide hope even after my skin has been thus destroyed. As believers, we affirm the existence of life after death and can live with confidence in God’s redemption. We have a sure and mighty hope in a physical resurrection. This reminds us of the words of Paul, which echo Job’s words: “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” (1 Cor. 15:55). In light of this, we can give great thanks to God in the midst of suffering. He “gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 15:57). On his day of redemption, Job believed that he and God would not meet as strangers but as two intimately familiar with one another. The very thought of such a meeting caused his heart to long within him. We will see later in the book that Job would see God (42:5), and after God prompted

Session 3 : Redemption Found 37 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources his repentance, would restore or redeem him. Even before that day, in this passage even, Job declared his confidence in God who would validate his claim of innocence.

How might we apply the truth that Christ lives, and lives to make intercession for us before God, to the heart of a sufferer?

WARNING ISSUED (JOB 19:28-29) Verses 28-29 VERSES 28-29 After exploring and expressing the future hope he had in redemption, Job now directed the next words to his friends and issued them a strong warning. 28 If you say, ‘How The punishment they declared he was undergoing would be the punishment we will pursue him!’ they may experience themselves. Again, Job’s friends saw his suffering as the common lot that falls upon the wicked. Because Job was suffering, they and, ‘The root of the condemned him as wicked and wrongly asserted he was only getting what he matter is found in deserved. Their harsh judgment continued despite Job’s declaration that he him,’ 29 be afraid of was innocent of the very things with which they charged him. Why did the friends spend chapter after chapter assuring Job that he the sword, for wrath had warranted God’s anger, despite Job’s claims of innocence? Perhaps brings the punishment Job’s friends were threatened by his suffering because if he had done of the sword, that you nothing to deserve his suffering, the same suffering might fall on them. may know there is a This possibility would be unsettling. If God allows suffering among the most pious and innocent, what should they expect to receive from God’s judgment.” hand? After all, the Bible teaches us that God will render to each according to his works (Ps. 62:12) but also calls for trust as God works out judgment according to His purposes. These truths make Job’s final words in this passage all the more searching. In fact, Job argued that they should fear the sword themselves. Judgment awaits all people, and Job’s friends needed to be afraid, especially in light of how they had treated him. In calling his friends to be careful how they judge him lest they fall under the punishment of the very sword they wielded, Job was in agreement with the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 7:1-2). Jesus warned against pronouncing judgment on another person because unfounded harshness in judgment toward others will result in being treated in the same way by God. The utilization of sword imagery in Job 19:29 is notable as well. According to Deuteronomy 19:16-19, false testimony demands the same penalty that would have been issued to the accused. Giving false testimony breaks the ninth commandment (Ex. 20:16) and has vast implications on others (Ps. 27:12; Prov. 6:19; 12:17,19; 14:5; 19:5,9; 25:18). For this reason, proper judgment and punishment deters people from such

38 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources actions. The seriousness of false testimony is weighty, and Job’s friends should have weighed their own assumptions and words carefully.

How does the truth that we will be judged by the same standard we judge others teach us to measure our words and sometimes keep our mouths shut?

Job’s warning to his friends was an act of compassion. This is especially moving, considering how they had treated him. Every warning before the final judgment is an act of mercy. At the end of the book, Job’s friends escaped the deadly consequences they deserved only by virtue of Job’s prayers for them. (See 42:7-9.) What an exemplary friend Job was. What a fine example of steadfastness he provides us. James 5:11 reminds us: “Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful.”

This passage provides a sobering warning to all of us concerning how we treat others.

Even still, this passage provides a sobering warning to all of us concerning how we treat others, and specifically a warning to be slow to judge others based on our perceptions. A clear hope in meeting God face to face should not only bolster our steadfastness and faithfulness, but should also prompt us to speak the truth to others, even warning them of what’s to come. Job looked forward to being restored after his death and to seeing the Lord face to face. One day, Job would see God as He is. This should remain the hope of all Christians as well. In that moment, we will no longer see through “a mirror dimly” (1 Cor. 13:12). As for believers, the sight of God will be welcomed and will incite worship. As for the wicked, the sight of God will bring about judgment and horror. Before our last breath, we need to come to personal terms with God. If we truly believe that our Redeemer lives and we have placed our faith in Jesus Christ, then we have nothing to fear. However, if we have not bowed the knee to the living Redeemer, Jesus Christ, we will bow one day in fear.

FOCUS ATTENTION CONTEXTUALIZE: Today we will examine Job’s response to his friends’ assertions that he INTRODUCE: Prior to the session, draw a needed to repent of his wicked ways. Utilizing three-column chart on a white board or Understand the Context (pp. 34–35), poster and write the words Failing Friends in summarize the messages of each friend. the first column. Once most have arrived, Read aloud Job 19:1-3, leading the group to direct attention to the words and guide the listen for the depth of Job’s feelings after group to reflect on a time when they felt let hearing from his friends. down by a friend or when they know they disappointed a friend. STATE: Job found no comfort from his friends, only judgment and rejection. At a time when ASK: Call for a show of hands as you ask he needed it most, his friends failed to stand by this question: How many of you have ever him. Job continued to share that the problem felt alone in the midst of a crowd of people? was between him and God. STATE: Perhaps you pictured yourself with a group of friends or by yourself, at a sporting READ: Invite a volunteer to read event, a movie theater, or moving to a new Job 19:19-22, while the group listens for town or church where you were surrounded Job’s description of his problem and his by people but knew no one. Social media may plea for help. also lead to lots of “friends” but little personal connection. ASK: What makes the failure of a friend to show compassion so disheartening to the DISCUSS: What factors make a person feel person needing help? (PSG, p. 30) alone even when in a crowd? (PSG, p. 28) EXPLAIN: Both Job and his friends attributed TRANSITION: In today’s study, we will Job’s adversity to God, but from our study of discover how Job’s frustration, even when the early chapters of Job, we recognize that the surrounded by his three friends, overwhelmed source of Job’s dire circumstances was Satan. him. The friends’ lack of encouragement and Read 1 Peter 5:8, stressing that Satan is still support left Job on the defensive as he wrestled working today. with adversity and looked for hope in a future reconciliation with God. HIGHLIGHT: Point out the following statement from the PSG (p. 31): How delighted Satan must be when people blame EXPLORE THE TEXT God for what Satan has done! MINI-LECTURE: Using Pack Item 2 WRITE: In the second column of the chart (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) indicate write the words, Living Redeemer. that today’s study will focus on the second round of discourses between Job and his ASK: How is the need for a Redeemer friends. Briefly review the messages that tied to the warning given to the friends? Job’s friends shared in the first round of (PSG, p. 29) discourses. Provide copies of Pack Item 10 (Handout: Friends of Job) for anyone in the READ: Instruct someone to read group who did not receive a copy in the last Job 19:23-27, silently looking for Job’s group time. words of hope.

40 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources RECORD: Guide the group to share the STATE: Job’s warning to his friends that they words or phrases of hope they discovered too would face judgment by the same standards and write them under the second column. they were proposing to Job is also a warning to us today. DISCUSS: What is the significance of Job wanting a permanent record of ASK: Why must humility always his declaration? How does this desire accompany a loving warning to others demonstrate his confidence in God? concerning God’s judgment? (PSG, p. 35) SUMMARIZE: Job’s desire was to be cleared of the false accusations of his friends and SUMMARIZE AND the wrong ideas of all the people around him. CHALLENGE Instead, he sought to be remembered for his unwavering faith in God. DISCUSS: Why should the people of God be quick to show compassion to those REREAD: Invite a volunteer to reread Job who suffer no matter the reason for their 19:25-27, as the group listens for Job’s suffering? (PSG, p. 32) Share about a time expectations for the future. when someone showed you compassion that you perhaps didn’t deserve. VISUALIZE: Lead the group to imagine the picture that might accompany Job’s words. EVALUATE: Guide the group to consider their actions toward others and analyze ASK: How do Job’s words reveal his hope whether their tendency is more toward for the future? judgment or compassion. GUIDE: Distribute copies of Pack Item 13 CHALLENGE: Lead the group to complete (Handout: Redeemer in the Old Testament) one of the question sets on page 36 for background information. Divide the of the PSG. group into three teams, assigning each one of the three Hebrew words that express the APPLY: How has today’s discussion changed concept of redeemer in the Old Testament. your perspective on the role of friends in After allowing time for study, call for a helping others through their suffering, volunteer from each team to share what regardless of whether their difficulties they learned about redemption. are unwarranted or a result of their own decisions? How can we help them discover EMPHASIZE: Verse 25 indicates that Job knew his Redeemer lives, and today, through God’s redemption through Jesus Christ? our faith in Jesus Christ, we too know that our PRAY: Close in prayer, thanking God Redeemer lives. Ask: How does the promise for being our Redeemer. Thank Him for of a future resurrection in Christ impact securing our future through the death how a believer lives? (PSG, p. 35) and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ. Pray that He will lead the group to reach WRITE: In the third column write the words Warning Issued. out to others with compassion and love, remembering that everyone will face God’s judgment. READ: Before you read aloud Job 19:28-29, direct the group to listen for Job’s warning to his friends. RECORD: Write the word judgment under the column labeled Warning Issued.

MUSIC CHART Prior to the session, enlist three volunteers. Gather chart paper and markers. Ask each volunteer to read one verse of the song, “Redeemed, How I Love to Proclaim As a group, list characteristics that are It” by Fanny J. Crosby, when requested. Be valued in a friendship. Lead the group to prepared to lead the group in singing or determine which characteristics are the reading chorally the chorus following the most important. Compare the list on the reading of each passage section. chart to the characteristics exhibited by Job’s friends. Complete an acrostic for the word friend using the completed list of WORD STUDY valued characteristics. Gather Bible dictionaries. Divide the group into teams of two to DRAMA four and provide a Bible dictionary for Recruit a volunteer to read Job 19:19-29 each team. Direct the group to complete as a monologue portraying Job speaking the Bible Skill activity on page 33 of the to his friends after their second discourse. PSG. Then guide the group to address the Direct the rest of the group to imagine that following questions after their research: they are one of the three friends listening What was the significance of Job declaring to Job. After the monologue, discuss the that his redeemer was living? How does feelings and emotions Job exhibited and that image of a living redeemer impact how the friends who gathered around him how we understand Christ’s work in our might have responded to his words. Direct redemption? the volunteer to repeat Job 19:25-26 while the group considers words that resound WRITING/REFLECTION with hope for the future. Gather pencils and paper. In Job 19:23, Job indicated that he wished his words were inscribed in stone forever. Job wanted to be remembered for his faithfulness to God. Distribute paper and pencils and guide the group to consider what they would like to be remembered for in the future. Direct the group to sketch a tombstone and in ten words or less write what they would like to see written about them. Provide time for each person to share their epitaph with one other person.

JOB 28:12-28 MEMORY VERSE: JOB 28:28

STUDY Job 28:12-28 to see how Job responded Prepare to Display: to additional words from his friends and Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) addressed the question of where wisdom can be Make Copies of: found. Highlight Job’s conclusion to his question Pack Item 9 (Handout: Memory that true wisdom is found in fearing God and Verses Bookmark) turning to Him in repentance and obedience. Examine 1 Corinthians 1:24-25; Colossians 2:3; Pack Item 12 (Handout: Wisdom Poetry) and James 1:5 as support for this study. CONSULT the weekly Explore the Bible adult

CREATE a teaching plan for your group using podcast to gain insights on the go about this the ideas on pages 50–52. Focus on the Source week’s study on Ministry Grid, Apple Podcasts, of wisdom for all believers that is only found in Stitcher, Spotify, LifeWay’s Digital Pass, or at God, revealed through studying His Word and goExploreTheBible.com/adults-training. the illumination of the Holy Spirit. REINFORCE the study by contacting

GATHER the following items: individuals in the group who are facing difficult circumstances. Draw insights from the current Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs) study of Job to encourage them. Someone in the group who can study and summarize Pack Item 12 (Handout: Wisdom Poetry) during the session

Date of My Bible Study:______43 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE People today are seeking words of wisdom and dependable counsel Scripture concerning how to navigate life’s challenges. We may search the Internet The Bible is a perfect treasure of looking for the right piece of advice or help we need. We may fill our divine instruction (Deut. 4:1-2). bookshelves or eReaders with self-help books. While it is true others may offer helpful advice in life, the Bible reveals that the source and goal of wisdom is God; true wisdom comes from Him and leads to Him. Job 28:12-28 emphasizes this truth.

(In PSG, p . 37) How might a person determine if the advice he or she is getting has merit? How do we know we can trust the source for wisdom?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL JOB 22:1–31:40 Review cross reference verses to gain insight. Job’s friends did not let up, they had reached their verdict. Job must be Review the following verses that guilty. What was their evidence? It came down to the fact that Job had support the same conclusion as experienced extreme suffering. According to them, his sin had brought all of this about. In fact, chapter 22 lays out the case as plain as it can Job: Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 9:10; be. Again, according to his mistaken friends, Job’s circumstances revealed Ecclesiastes 12:13; and Isaiah his hidden evil, and he needed to repent. Job’s reply in chapters 23–24 8:11-13. Note similar words and landed the responsibility on God, who had chosen him as an instrument phrases. How does each passage of suffering. Bildad attempted to reply in chapter 25, but Job abruptly give us a different view of the interrupted him and further asserted that an explanation of the trial was fear of God? How would you ultimately hidden in divine mystery. Job’s friends had no more arguments summarize the teaching of these or comfort to offer him. passages in one sentence? Job’s friends became silent after their final plea. Job, however, had more to say. In chapter 28, he launched off on a monologue and offered a profound reflection on God’s wisdom, utilizing all of creation as points in his speech. In the last three chapters of this section (chaps. 29–31), the reader is set up for Job’s final case. Job began with reflection on his blessed life before tragedy (chap. 29), only to follow it with a searing protest about his dreadful present situation (chap. 30). From here, Job offered one final protest of his innocence and then fell into silence himself (chap. 31). Job and his friends exhausted their verbal ammunition and argued themselves further apart. One thing is clear, Job realized that neither him nor his friends had any wisdom to offer in this matter. Therefore, his only hope was to be able to stand before God to be vindicated (23:1-17). Job and his friends explored all the human wisdom available. Now the question was where wisdom could be found. This lesson in humility is important

44 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources for the reader. As we have seen before, God does not always reveal the reasons for His activity. Even in the things God does reveal, He often does not exhaustively reveal His plans. Certainly, what God chooses to reveal is sufficient. For those who have learned to trust in Him, that should be enough.

EXPLORE THE TEXT VERSES 12-19 VALUED (JOB 28:12-19) 12 “But where shall Verses 12-19 wisdom be found? And But where shall wisdom be found? And where is the place of understanding? where is the place of This question is at the heart of almost all human endeavors to uncover the understanding? 13 Man mysteries of the universe. The search for wisdom has driven philosophers and scientists to the highest peaks of human achievement. Yet, all the does not know its worth, human ability in the world put forth in the efforts to find wisdom will end and it is not found in in futility. In essence, no human has the ability to discover wisdom in his the land of the living. or her own power independent of God. 14 The wisdom of God is beyond our comprehension. It cannot be The deep says, ‘It is purchased with any human resources. In fact, Job argued that no one even not in me,’ and the sea knows its worth. Building his case, Job listed the most precious resources says, ‘It is not with me.’ mined from the earth and showed their inadequacy to pay the price for 15 It cannot be bought wisdom (vv. 15-19). Neither gold, silver, onyx, sapphire, coral, crystal, pearls, or topaz can compare to the value of wisdom. This is a point with for gold, and silver which the teacher of Ecclesiastes would certainly nod in agreement. cannot be weighed as It is instructive to read this section of the text in the context of the its price. 16 It cannot be arguments of Job’s friends. They claimed that Job loved God because of the gifts that he possessed. As we have seen, all of these gifts had been taken valued in the gold of away form Job. In 22:21-26, Eliphaz accused Job of loving gold and silver Ophir, in precious onyx more than God. Underneath all of these arguments was the insinuation or sapphire. 17 Gold and that Job was greedy, presumably this could be the sin his friends suspected glass cannot equal it, nor of Job. However, Job defended his innocence the entire time and never indicated that he struggled with greed. His friends based their arguments can it be exchanged for on a wrong premise, and Job had been trying to show them their mistake jewels of fine gold. 18 No the whole time. The comparison between wealth and wisdom is a thread mention shall be made that can be located in many places in the Bible. The Book of Proverbs, which is also classified as wisdom literature along of coral or of crystal; the with the Book of Job, compares wealth and wisdom as well. Just like Job, the price of wisdom is above writer of Proverbs teaches that wisdom cannot be purchased with wealth. pearls. 19 The topaz of Even still, we understand that sometimes wisdom does lead to wealth. Ethiopia cannot equal it, However, that is not the lesson to be learned here. In Proverbs 8:18-19, we read: “With me are riches and honor, lasting wealth and righteousness. My nor can it be valued in fruit is better than solid gold, and my harvest than pure silver.” pure gold. Wisdom literature is primarily focused on wise living and is application driven. All the wealth in the world cannot buy wisdom, which is a crown of honor. Wisdom cannot be purchased, nor can it be found by

Session 4 : Wisdom Gained 45 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources human exploration. Wisdom does not reside in the “land of the living” or in the deepest depths of the sea (28:13b-14). In the ancient world, bodies of water were often regarded as the personification of chaos and evil. Whether in good or evil, order or chaos, the wisdom of God cannot be found by human ingenuity. The wise person, according to the inspired writers of wisdom literature, values and treasures godly wisdom over all worldly treasure and earthly exploits. The implicit command here to treasure divine wisdom reflects the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:19-21, with a reminder that where our treasure is, there our hearts will be also. Job seems to have understood this, even though his friends claimed that his treasure amounted of worldly things. Like Job, we should treasure the Giver above the gifts. This is true wisdom.

Why is the wisdom of God more valuable than earthly treasures and human ingenuity?

HIDDEN (JOB 28:20-22) Verses 20-22 VERSES 20-22 Verse 20 begins like verse 12: From where, then, does wisdom come? And where is the place of understanding? Job began by proclaiming that 20 “From where, then, wisdom is invaluable compared to earthly wealth, and it is inaccessible by human abilities. In this section, Job turned his attention to the entirety of does wisdom come? And creation. Not only is wisdom hidden from the creatures who dwell on the where is the place of earth, it is also elusive to the creatures of the sky. Even birds, who have the understanding? 21 It is highest vantage point, cannot find wisdom. No creature is equipped for this task! The usage of creation in Job’s argument was a genius move on his hidden from the eyes of part. In it he effectively closed his case that creatures cannot find all of the all living and concealed answers they are looking for in the theater of creation. This type of wisdom from the birds of the air. is found somewhere else. 22 Abaddon and Death say, ‘We have heard a When looking in all the wrong rumor of it with our ears.’ places, the search for wisdom can bring someone to despair.

Job then drew the readers’ attention below the earth, to Abaddon and Death. It is a parallel to the grave. In the Old Testament, it means the place of utter ruin, death, desolation, or destruction (Ps. 88:11; Prov. 15:11). In Revelation 9:11, Abaddon is depicted as a bottomless pit. Essentially Job was saying, regardless of how high (birds) or low (grave) you go, the wisdom

46 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources of God cannot be obtained. This sentiment is often expressed today when someone (even a non-Christian) says, “if only I could see the whole picture.” Or more grimly, “perhaps all will be revealed to me after I am dead.” When looking in all the wrong places, the search for wisdom can bring someone to despair. It is a difficult lesson to come to terms with what Job argued in verses 21-22, namely, that the creatures of earth, heaven, and the underworld cannot grasp true wisdom and therefore, cannot guide anyone to its source. However, we also understand that the wise person searches for godly wisdom.

Why do people often long for a “higher vantage point” in their search for understanding? Why do people find comfort in the hope that all of their questions will be answered in the life to come? VERSES 23-24 23 “God understands the way to it, and he knows its place. 24 For he looks to the ends of the earth and sees everything FOUND (JOB 28:23-27) under the heavens. Verses 23-24 After Job led the reader on a search for wisdom, both high and low, and consulted all of earth’s creatures, he proclaimed that God alone knows where to find wisdom. Only Godunderstands the way to it. God is the only one who knows its place. People cannot find wisdom in the skies over the earth. They cannot find wisdom in the depths under the earth. But God has the vantage point to see all, to the ends of the earth. He sees everything under the heavens.

Verses 25-27 The truth stated in verses 23-24 is now grounded in the doctrine of creation. VERSES 25-27 As almighty Creator, God alone knows where wisdom has been placed. After all, it was God who gave to the wind its weight and apportioned the 25 When he gave to the waters by measure. Likewise, it was God who made a decree for the rain wind its weight and and a way for the lightning of the thunder. Because God has established the order of creation, He alone can reveal wisdom to humanity. It is important apportioned the waters to remind ourselves that everything God has revealed is an act of His grace. by measure, 26 when The creator God is not bound to reveal wisdom to any of His creatures. he made a decree for Yet, He chooses to do so in love. Even though He does not reveal all things the rain and a way for exhaustively, what He does reveal is sufficient for all of life and godliness. While God reveals His wisdom to those who faithfully seek Him, that does the lightning of the not mean He will reveal all the reasons behind what happens to us and thunder, 27 then he around us. saw it and declared it; We must learn to trust Him in the things He has not revealed or the things we cannot understand. Ultimately, this comes down to our he established it, and understanding of the character of God. If we believe God is good and loving, searched it out.

Session 4 : Wisdom Gained 47 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources we can be comfortable with mystery. If we believe that God is all wise, then we can submit ourselves to His providential hand. We must learn like Job that only God is the source of true wisdom. Moreover, God’s wisdom is seen in His creative work. If the heavens declare the glory of God, can we not also declare His benevolence? True wisdom belongs to God alone. If we do not proclaim this truth, then the rocks of the earth will cry out in our place (Luke 19:40).

How does our struggle to come to terms with mystery reveal our level of trust in God?

If we believe God is good and loving, we can be comfortable with mystery.

OFFERED (JOB 28:28) Verse 28 VERSE 28 It has become clear throughout our text that true wisdom not only belongs to God but is also found only in God. What then is the key to accessing this 28 And he said to man, wisdom? To answer this question, Job utilized a phrase that is common ‘Behold, the fear of the in biblical wisdom literature, namely, that wisdom is found in the fear of the Lord. (See also Ps. 111:10; Prov. 1:7; Job 28:28; Eccl. 12:13.) This Lord, that is wisdom, theme is common in all of Scripture. The Law of Moses cites the fear of and to turn away from God as a reason to treat the disabled and elderly well (Lev. 19:14,32). Moses evil is understanding.’” chose leaders on the basis that they feared God and wouldn’t take bribes (Ex. 18:21). Moses also told the Israelites that God met with them in a terrifying display of His power so that they wouldn’t sin (Ex. 20:20). Even in the New Testament, we are told that the chief sin of mankind is “there no fear of God” (Rom. 3:18). In Job 28:28, the word translated Lord is the Hebrew word Adonai, which was often voiced as a replacement for Yahweh by ancient Jews when reading or praying Scripture. The qualifying sentence, to turn away from evil is understanding, indicates that wisdom is found in fearing God and turning away from evil. Once again, the fear of God is linked to a moral command. In the case of Job, it seems that he was primarily focused on one’s respectful attitude or subservient relationship to God, which is expressed in pursuing holiness or an aversion to evil. The concept of fearing God and turning away from evil is important for understanding the Book of Job as a whole. Job’s friends assumed that he had done something evil, though he maintained his innocence. In the

48 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources last session, we followed Job’s plea with his friends to beware of wrongly ascribing evil to him, which was evil itself and would bring about judgment on them. In sum, the fear of God is a deep reverence brought about by the presence of God, who is vastly more powerful than any human being. The fear of God is a humble posture of submissive reverence.

God created us to stand in awe of Him and keep His commandments.

True wisdom, then, begins with the fear of God. To fear God is to stand in awe of Him. God is the almighty Creator; we are mere creatures. God is sovereign; we are dependent. God is holy; we are sinners. As we have already seen in Scripture, we demonstrate that we fear God by keeping His commandments. If we acknowledge God as our King, we will naturally seek to do what He says. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). The writer of Ecclesiastes wrote that “this is the whole duty of man” (Eccl. 12:13). That verse reads literally that fearing God and keeping His commandments “is the whole of everyone.” It’s not just our duty, it’s our essence. God created us to stand in awe of Him and keep His commandments. That’s the way to fulfill God’s plan for us. If God created us, He certainly knows what is best for us because it leads to repentance of sin and the pursuit of righteous living. All of us have failed to fear God rightly and thus to live the perfectly wise life. There is only One who has walked the earth in perfect wisdom, and that is Jesus Christ. Jesus is the wisdom of God for us (1 Cor. 1:18-24). What we see then, is that the Christian life does not rest in the wisdom of man (a theme that Job explores thoroughly) but in the power of God.

Would those who know you say that you are a “God fearer”? If so, why do they make that claim of your life?

FOCUS ATTENTION READ: Invite a volunteer to read aloud Job 28:12, as the group listens for INTRODUCE: As the group begins to arrive, Job’s question. comment: Each day we are surrounded by all types of advice about what is good for us to eat, ASK: What are some sources a person how to take care of our health, the best car to may turn to when seeking wisdom? What drive, what investments to make, or how to makes the quest for wisdom daunting and raise our kids. In an age of endless information, frustrating for some? (PSG, p. 39) discerning true wisdom can be challenging. EXAMINE: Summarize verse 12 from page 45 of this book: “All the human ASK: How might a person determine if the ability in the world put forth in the efforts advice he or she is getting has merit? How to find wisdom will end in futility. In do we know we can trust the source for essence, no human has the ability to wisdom? (PSG, p. 37) discover wisdom in his or her own power independent of God.” TRANSITION: Throughout our study of Job, we’ve seen Job struggle to defend himself in EXPLAIN: In the next few verses in Job 28, the face of criticism from his friends and his Job expressed his thoughts on the value wife. He has maintained his innocence and his of wisdom. devotion to God. In today’s study, he continues to seek God and addresses a vital question for READ: Direct someone to read aloud all of us: Where can wisdom be found? Job 28:13-19, guiding the group to look for where wisdom can’t be found. EXPLORE THE TEXT PARAPHRASE: Lead the group to turn to a REVIEW: Utilizing Pack Item 2 (Outlines of neighbor and paraphrase verses 13-14. Job and Ecclesiastes), indicate that the study DISCUSS: How did Job compare the value today is the third round of discourses by of wisdom with precious metals or jewels? Job’s friends. Briefly relate that in both the first and second discourses Job’s friends STATE: Wisdom cannot be found on earth, so have said that he must have sinned and it is impossible to estimate its value. Wisdom fallen away from his faith to have such can’t come from even the purest gold and finest harsh judgment from God. Each time Job jewels, yet we often put so much effort into responded with words that show that earthly treasures. although he has many questions and things he doesn’t understand, he is confident in ASK: What is evidence that a believer his faith. values wisdom from God more than anything else? (PSG, p. 40) OVERVIEW: Using Understand the Context (pp. 44–45) provide a brief summary of READ: Read aloud Job 28:20-22 as the Job 22:1–31:40. group compares verse 20 to verse 12.

50 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources ASK: Why do people search for wisdom in READ: Direct someone to read aloud the wrong places? (PSG, p. 42) Job 28:28, while the group listens for Job’s conclusion. EXPLAIN: Job explained that wisdom is hidden from the living and the dead. Neither REMIND: Draw attention to Pack Item 9 are able to grasp true wisdom or determine (Handout: Memory Verses Bookmark) the true source of wisdom. The wise person distributed in an earlier session, noting searches for godly wisdom. that Job 28:28 is a verse to carry in our hearts as we seek God’s wisdom. GUIDE: Distribute copies of Pack Item 12 (Handout: Wisdom Poetry) to the group. ASK: How does the “fear of the Lord” and Allow time for the person who studied the “to turn away from evil” define wisdom item to share what he or she learned. Then and understanding? (PSG, p. 44) highlight the following quote: “it seems that the real essence of wisdom is spiritual, TRANSITION: Wisdom begins with a right for life is more than just living by a set of relationship with God and acknowledging rules and being rewarded in some physical His sovereignty over everything. manner.” Ask: What experiences in your life have shown this to be true? How did SUMMARIZE AND Job display this fact in his life? CHALLENGE READ: Invite a volunteer to read REVIEW: Call for a volunteer to read aloud Job 28:23-27. the Summary Statements under Apply the Text (PSG, p. 45). Invite the group to DISCUSS: Divide the group into three teams. contemplate living out these statements as Assign each team one of the following believers. Ask: Which of these challenges passages from the New Testament: you the most today? Explain. 1 Corinthians 1:24-25; Colossians 2:3; and James 1:5. Direct each team to be prepared CHALLENGE: Guide the group to reflect to relate how their passages would answer on their own lives and ask themselves if Job’s question. Instruct them to read the others would see evidence of God’s wisdom comments in the PSG under Verses 23-27 in their lives. Then ask them to reflect on (pp. 42–43) for clarification. the following question: Evaluate the role the Bible plays in your search for wisdom. HIGHLIGHT: Emphasize the statement What actions do you need to take to on page 43 of the PSG: One day God will greater depend on the Bible for wisdom? enable us to see everything clearly and to fully (PSG, p. 45) understand His purposes. PRAY: Close in prayer, thanking the Lord DISCUSS: How does this statement give for His presence with us through the Holy you hope when you struggle to know how Spirit. Ask that He would open our eyes to proceed in a challenging situation? Why to His wisdom and let our actions reflect is submission to God and His sovereignty His guidance. over all creation as the Creator essential to having true wisdom? (PSG, p. 43)

MUSIC DRAMA To energize your group and reinforce Prior to the session enlist one person the study of Job, play a recording of the to portray Job in a dramatic reading children’s song, “W-I-S-D-O-M,” produced of Job 28:12-28. Coach the volunteer by Sovereign Grace Music with the music to emphasize Job’s repeated question and lyrics by Zach Jones. Prior to the concerning wisdom. The monologue could session enlist one person to lead the group be broken into several parts as each section in singing the chorus and bridge sections. is addressed during the group time or used in its entirety to reinforce and summarize PHYSICAL/RELATIONAL the study. Gather index cards and pencils. OBJECT LESSON Distribute index cards to each person Gather several self-help books. and direct them to write a definition for wisdom. After the definitions are written, Display the gathered self-help books where direct everyone to find a partner not sitting they are visible as the group arrives. Direct beside them to share their definitions. the group to indicate if they have ever Guide the group of pairs to join another bought or checked out from the library a group to form a team of four. Provide self-help book. Share that people are always an index card for each team and ask looking for information on ways to improve them to write a definition together that themselves. Relate that sometimes sources summarizes their individual definitions. provide exceptionally good advice for Allow time for each team to share. life’s circumstances, but that’s not always the case. Emphasize that there is only ART one source that always provides truthful, accurate guidance, and that source is God’s Gather construction paper or Word. Call for volunteers to share how they chenille sticks. incorporate reading and studying God’s Provide each person in the group with Word into their daily lives. a small piece of construction paper or a chenille stick. Direct the group to either tear their construction paper or form their chenille stick into the shape of something that people today consider very valuable. Remind the group that it is OK if they are the only ones who can recognize their creation. Make a list of things that the group perceives that today’s world considers valuable.

JOB 36:8-23 MEMORY VERSE: JOB 36:10

STUDY Job 36:8-23 to determine how the Prepare to Display: message from Job’s fourth friend is both Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) similar and different from the discourses of the Make Copies of: other three friends. Consult a Bible dictionary Pack Item 10 (Handout: Friends of Job) for information on the words affliction, fairness, and justice. Reflect on the way these words (or CONSULT the Explore the Bible website for their synonyms) are used in Job 36:8-23. ways of using a current news event to start and conclude the session (goExploreTheBible.com/ CREATE a teaching plan for your group using LeaderExtras). Also listen for tips on the weekly the ideas on pages 60–62. Be prepared to Explore the Bible Podcast to gain insights as emphasize that not all adversity is a result of sin you prepare for the session. and that God’s blessings do not always result in material wealth. REINFORCE the study by examining your own life for areas of sin that need to be addressed. GATHER the following items: Contact the group through email or text, asking Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs) them to consider when they’ve trusted God’s justice in their lives.

Date of My Bible Study:______53 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE Most of us have been on the receiving end of something we thought to God the Father be unfair: the team running sprints because one person loafed; the class God is all powerful, all receiving extra work because one classmate misbehaved. One thing common knowing, all loving, and to every person is we want to be treated justly by others. While people may all wise (1 Pet. 1:17). struggle to always do what is right concerning others, Job 36:8-23 reveals God is just in His treatment of all people.

(In PSG, p . 46) What is the relationship between fairness and trust?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL JOB 32:1–37:24 Memorize a Bible verse. This section of the Book of Job primarily consists of Elihu’s speeches that Focus on Job 36:10. Review the offer his perspective on Job’s situation. Not only did Elihu offer a charge verse in different translations against Job, he also refuted Job’s claims of innocence (chaps. 33–34). including both older and This is followed by an assertion of Job’s stance before God, along with a contemporary translations. How description of God’s majesty and the futility of turning from His discipline did the comparison of translations (chaps. 35–36). While Elihu’s speeches do contain general truths about impact how you understand the God’s dealings with the righteous and wicked, he wrongly applied these verse? Write your own paraphrase truths to the situation of Job. In fact, later in the book, Elihu’s perspective of the verse and memorize the is not mentioned or commended, which should lead the reader to assume verse and your paraphrase. that his reasons for Job’s suffering were not entirely correct. What seems to give Elihu’s speech initial weight is his claim to speak on God’s behalf. One might be tempted to believe what he said in its entirety because of his claim. However, this section of the Book of Job reminds the reader that it is a dangerous matter to claim to speak on God’s behalf, even when such attempts are aimed at bolstering one’s arguments with authority. Who would be so bold as to speak for God in areas where God has not clearly spoken? It is somewhat ironic that Elihu reminded Job of God’s majesty and unrivaled power, and he hastily claimed to represent God’s providential purposes in Job’s suffering. If wisdom is found in the fear of God, one might assume Elihu would be more careful in asserting divine support for his personal perspective. True fear of God should cause one to pause in making such claims. While Elihu claimed that Job was prideful (based on his refusal to repent), it is Elihu who comes across as arrogant. He accused Job of being judgmental, but it was Elihu who was being most judgmental. Before we hastily judge Elihu, much like he did Job, we should be reminded of our

54 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources propensity to judge others on the basis of appearance. We must be careful not to make condemning judgments based on what we see. We only see in part. There is mystery in the work of God, especially when it comes to His providential permission of suffering.

EXPLORE THE TEXT

PURPOSEFUL DISCIPLINE (JOB 36:8-11) As chapter 36 begins, Elihu implied that his words for Job originated not from him but from God. We might assume that his speech is true and right, because he claimed to speak on God’s behalf (36:2-3). In some ways, his words reflect the truth in part. Certainly (as Elihu said), God is mighty and understands all things (v. 5). And God does watch over the righteous and ultimately brings justice to the oppressed (vv. 6-7). However, the general principles that Elihu applied to all people are unconvincing when the entirety of the Book of Job is taken into account. Things are not as clear-cut as he presumed. What Elihu didn’t account for is the fact that sometimes the righteous do suffer, and sometimes the wicked flourish. As Job’s friends have done thus far, Elihu looked at Job’s suffering and claimed divine inspiration as the grounds to accuse him of sin.

Verses 8-9 In verse 8, Elihu’s presuppositions began to fold as he returned to the VERSES 8-9 idea of disciplinary suffering. We know from Scripture that God is holy and just and will judge all sin. Evil is present in the world due to human 8 And if they are bound rebellion which demands divine punishment. Within the Bible we also in chains and caught in find instances where divine discipline occurs within the context of evil. God disciplines His people—collectively and individually—that they may the cords of affliction, be brought to repentance and closer to Him. In these cases, the purpose 9 then he declares to of God’s discipline is often to teach a lesson—to train and to mature them their work and His children through suffering—but this was not the case with Job. Job their transgressions, maintained his innocence throughout the narrative. Despite his friends’ claims, Job argued that God would one day vindicate him and prove that they are behaving them wrong. arrogantly. Elihu held strong to his position. In verse 8, he figuratively described sufferers asbound in chains of affliction. (We can assume he meant self- imposed chains.) He further pressed in and maintained that God would explain why they were suffering. To put it simply, Elihu described affliction using the imagery of captivity: people are bound in chains, even more, God binds them. From Elihu’s perspective, God uses this imprisonment of affliction to bring people to repentance of their sin. It is their imprisonment that opens their ears to His correction. Again, Elihu was implying that Job was holding something back, namely, that he did indeed know why he was suffering and was hiding it from his friends.

Session 5 : Justice Sought 55 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Verses 10-11 VERSES 10-11 The solution then, was that the sufferer be brought to repentance. Those who repent will be delivered by God; those who do not listen to instruction 10 He opens their ears and return from iniquity will be judged even in the circumstances of to instruction and their death. If Job would simply repent, then the weight of his suffering would be removed and he would experience joy once more. According commands that they to Elihu, those who respond well to God’s disciplinary suffering will return from iniquity. find pleasantness again. Elihu was not wrong. As Psalm 30 reminds us, 11 If they listen and serve those who repent will find their lament turned to dancing! However, he wrongly assumed this was the case with Job and was the solution to him, they complete Job’s problem. their days in prosperity, While Elihu misinterpreted Job’s situation, he was correct in explaining and their years in that God reveals to humans their need to repent. In fact, sometimes God pleasantness. uses trials and suffering to bring people to repentance, and if people in these situations repent then God will once again bless them. It is important to note that all suffering is the result of sin in general, but not all suffering is the direct result of a person’s individual sin in particular. Even more, while God permits all suffering, all suffering is not for the explicit purpose of discipline. There do remain some things that we do not understand completely. Such as the way God orders the world’s affairs. All of the solutions found in the Bible are legitimate approaches to the question of suffering and the problem of evil. Each principle has a specific application, but there is always an element of mystery. With this in mind, however, in some cases, suffering can be an opportunity for believers to examine their lives for sin of which they need to repent. What is always true, however, is that suffering is an opportunity to lean in and trust God deeply.

What are the dangers of claiming to speak for God when talking to people going through suffering or attempting to make sense of a difficult situation? VERSES 12-14 12 But if they do not listen, they perish by the sword and die without knowledge. 13 “The godless in heart JUDGMENT COMING (JOB 36:12-16) cherish anger; they do Verses 12-14 not cry for help when Elihu and his friends assumed Job had not repented because of his pride. he binds them. 14 They They thought Job had not learned his lesson. Because of his pride, his die in youth, and their friends asserted he would perish by the sword. This phrase also can be life ends among the cult translated “cross the river of death.” In Scripture, water often represents chaos or evil. It is no surprise then that Elihu utilized the imagery of a prostitutes. river to refer to Job’s death. In his mind, Job had become hard of heart and resistant to repentance, so much so that God’s discipline had not softened him. This mentality is exemplified in the godless who harbor anger toward God.

56 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources In cases where a person has hardened his or her heart against God, He will often bind them in discipline, and it is only God who can release them. But if, in their hardness of heart, they refuse to call out to the only One who can set them free, then they will end up in judgment. For this reason, their untimely death is likened to young men who die with the cult prostitutes, a shameful way to die.

Verses 15-16 After the warning of dying a shameful death, Elihu shamed Job further. VERSES 15-16 According to him, Job should be rescued by his affliction. Even more, he surmised that Job should be instructed by his adversity. After all, isn’t 15 He delivers the God in the business of punishing the wicked and rewarding the innocent? afflicted by their Verse 15 encapsulates Elihu’s doctrine of disciplinary suffering. From Elihu’s perspective, Job’s suffering should have redirected his path through affliction and opens their repentance. Through suffering, God was attempting to lure Jobout of ear by adversity. 16 He distress. If Job would just respond in repentance, he would not only be also allured you out of set free but would also enjoy the abundance of God’s blessings, like a table distress into a broad … full of fatness. The imagery painted by Elihu is stark—either remain bound in a self-imposed prison or repent and eat freely at a lush table. place where there was no Once again, we would affirm the general truth of Elihu’s words here, cramping, and what was even though he wrongly applied them to Job. Elihu reminded Job that set on your table was full those who choose to ignore God face His righteous judgment and death. There are indeed times when God uses suffering as a means of inducing of fatness. repentance. People must be informed of the consequences of choosing to ignore God. However, one must take precautions in wrongly ascribing meaning to a situation of suffering that is not explicitly revealed by God or the sufferer. Elihu made the grave mistake of wrongly assuming a general principle in a particular case. This is instructive to us as Christians who will sometimes find ourselves consoling the suffering. Before making any assumptions about the reason for suffering, one must begin by weeping with those who weep (Rom. 12:15). The sufferer will often find it difficult to maintain a proper attitude toward God and may even be tempted to rebel against Him or give up belief in God altogether. In these instances, the best Christian response is not to offer philosophical enlightenment but loving care. Certainly, once the initial shock of suffering lifts, the sufferer may begin to ask questions. In those cases, one can provide care by answering according to Scripture and providing counsel based on God’s promises. However, we must remember that there is nothing more pointless than to answer a question that is not fully understood or fully posed. There are times when God speaks through suffering. There are times when suffering and pain come to people not because of their sin. For this reason, the Book of Job reminds us not to draw hasty conclusions about a person’s spiritual condition based on the circumstances of that person’s life. This passage also reminds us that suffering is a complex situation that involves different perspectives on reasons and purposes. Most of which are not readily available to the human mind.

Session 5 : Justice Sought 57 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources There are times when suffering comes about by people’s actions, the actions of others, or cause-and-effect circumstances in the broken world. In these situations, why is it important for Christians to initially weep with those who weep rather than jump into philosophical explanations regarding suffering?

JUSTICE SEEN (JOB 36:17-23) VERSES 17-21 Verses 17-21 17 “But you are full of the In his final plea, Elihu concluded by asserting that while Job understood with the justice due to the wicked, he failed to see his suffering as just. judgment on the wicked; Elihu appealed to Job very directly at this point by describing the change in judgment and justice his circumstances and warning him against choosing to harden his heart seize you. 18 Beware lest rather than embracing the divine purpose of his affliction. In verse 18, Elihu returned to the idea that Job only loved God wrath entice you into because of the gifts of riches that had been bestowed from God’s hand. scoffing, and let not the This is implicit in his warning to Job not to be lured away from God and greatness of the ransom his situation by riches. Neither riches nor self-effort could set his situation turn you aside. 19 Will right again. Therefore, Job must be careful not to fall further, as Elihu assumed, into iniquity. According to his friend, if Job were to rely on his your cry for help avail to own resources and power, he would not find peace. Job should deem the keep you from distress, greatness of the loss of his family, status, and belongings as the means by or all the force of your which God was pleading for his attention and calling him to turn from sin. From Elihu’s perspective, there was no shelter in the night in which Job strength? 20 Do not long could hide from his pain. Essentially, Elihu closed this section in verse 21 for the night, when with an ultimatum. Either Job would charge God with wrongdoing in his peoples vanish in their suffering, or he would look at his own life and repent in order to restore his place. 21 Take care; do not relationship with God. turn to iniquity, for this Verses 22-23 you have chosen rather In the transition of verses 22-23, Elihu began to remind Job of God’s than affliction. greatness in order to paint a picture of the futility of turning from Him. The rhetorical questions have obvious answers.Who is a teacher like him (God)? Who has prescribed for him his way? Finally, and more poignantly, who can say to God, ‘You have done wrong’? Elihu assumed this was Job’s attitude. He believed that rather than learning from his suffering, Job was choosing to harden his heart and would eventually reveal his trust in riches. Even though Elihu’s interpretation of Job’s life was incorrect, he was right to say that God’s greatness is the source of all hope and wisdom. In this sense, we would also affirm that believers can trust God to be just in His dealings with humanity. In the kingdom of God, things are not always as they seem. God can and does work in difficult situations to bring about good. The ultimate example of this is the cross of Jesus Christ. The death of Jesus, which from a human perspective was a tragic injustice, became the means by which the

58 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources sin of the world would be taken away. Even in the events of our lives we can affirm that “for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (Rom. 8:28). The doctrine of God’s providence is the truth that He controls the circumstances of everyday history so as to work out His purposes. There is nothing meaningless or out of control in human history that God did not VERSES 22-23 sovereignly ordain or providentially will. In fact, there are three things we 22 Behold, God is exalted can affirm about God’s providential relationship to human history. First, we believe that God intervenes in human history. Second, we believe that in his power; who is a God guides human history, even individual’s lives. Finally, we believe that teacher like him? 23 Who God will bring history (even situations in our lives) to the conclusion He has prescribed for him has planned. This is not merely an abstract academic or philosophical his way, or who can say, proposition but lies at the heart of our personal trust in God’s loving control over all things. When we experience difficulties, trials, or suffering, we ‘You have done wrong’? might be tempted to think, where is God? What is He doing? Doesn’t He care? God does care, and He knows what He is doing.

Most of the time, it’s hard to see God’s hand in difficult situations, so we must trust His heart.

There are times when we may not understand what is happening in the moment, but we must reassure ourselves of the truth that God remains sovereign over every aspect of the universe and every detail of our lives. Most of the time, it’s hard to see God’s hand in difficult situations, so we must trust His heart. We can trust that God is in control—even in our trials.

How can the doctrine of God’s providence provide comfort in difficult times even when the purposes for our difficulty are not clear?

FOCUS ATTENTION READ: Invite a volunteer to read Job 36:8-11, while the group listens INTRODUCE: Welcome the group and ask, for characteristics of God evident in How would you describe fairness? Signal these verses. with a thumbs up or thumbs down if you can remember a time when you felt you DESCRIBE: Guide the group to indicate were treated unfairly. specific words or phrases in these verses that reveal God’s character. GUIDE: Invite a volunteer to read the paragraph on page 46 of the PSG. EXPLAIN: Elihu argued that God has a specific purpose for allowing someone to suffer. He said DISCUSS: What is the relationship one reason for suffering is to reveal people’s between fairness and trust? (PSG, p. 46) sins and call them back to God in repentance. TRANSITION: Job consistently indicated to He reminded Job that if he repented, then his friends that he was being treated unfairly. God would once again bless him. Remind He refuted the idea that his adversity was the the group that not all suffering is a result result of his sin. In today’s session, we find Job of sin, but it is all part of God’s plan and receiving counsel from a fourth friend, Elihu. purpose. Supplement and clarify this information using the comments under Verses 8-10 on pages 48–49 of the PSG. EXPLORE THE TEXT EXAMINE: Lead the group to examine CONTEXTUALIZE: Utilizing Understand Genesis 50:20; Job 1:8; 2:3; and John 9:2-3 the Context (PSG, p. 47) and Pack Item 2 to confirm that not all suffering is a result (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes), establish of sin. Emphasize this statement from the the context for the session. Distribute PSG (p. 49): Job suffered because there was copies of Pack Item 10 (Handout: Friends no one else on earth like him, a man of perfect of Job) to any person in the group who integrity, who feared God and turned away did not receive one in an earlier session from evil (Job 1:8; 2:3). and introduce Elihu. Explain that Elihu’s lengthy speech is recorded in ASK: How does one know the difference Job 32:1–37:24, so share with the group between being disciplined for a sin and that the study will be looking at only a being shaped or tested by a challenge? small part of his speech: Elihu reiterated (PSG, p. 49) that true wisdom comes from God alone. IDENTIFY: Reread aloud Job 36:11, asking He expressed frustration with Job for placing the group to listen for an if-then situation more emphasis on himself than on God. He revealed in the verse. rebuked Job for questioning God’s justice and told him he needed to stop complaining and turn to God. Elihu reminded Job of God’s mercy even as he pointed out Job’s self-righteousness and pride.

60 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources EMPHASIZE: Highlight that God does HIGHLIGHT: Emphasize the Key Doctrine not guarantee material prosperity, but He (God the Father) on page 53 of the PSG: does offer peace and happiness to those God is all powerful, all knowing, all loving, and who obey and serve Him. People who all wise (1 Pet. 1:17). have repented of their sin, are teachable, and have listened to God’s instruction ASK: When have you seen God work in find contentment in their earthly a way that was completely unexpected? situations and look forward to an eternal How was God’s outcome the perfect prosperity with God. answer to a seemingly impossible situation? DISCUSS: Lead the group to turn to a neighbor and discuss why repentance is TRANSITION: Although not all adversity important for the believer. that we experience is a result of sin, all of our circumstances provide an opportunity for us to grow in our relationship with Christ. READ: Invite a volunteer to read Job 36:12-16, as the group listens for the consequences of not listening to God. SUMMARIZE AND ASK: Why do people choose to ignore God, CHALLENGE even when experiencing adversity? What REVIEW: Solicit responses to the are the consequences of ignoring God, and bulleted statements under Apply the why are they so serious? (PSG, p. 51) Text (PSG, p. 54). Encourage the group to modify or add to the statements. EXPLAIN: In these verses Elihu, in a more gracious way than his other friends, encouraged EVALUATE: Lead the group to quietly Job to repent of his sin so that he could once reflect on the following question: again receive God’s blessings. Elihu offered hope List situations you are facing that that Job might see an end to his suffering. are challenging to your faith in God. How can you express trust in God with TRANSITION: According to Elihu, God always gives people what they deserve. each challenge you listed? (PSG, p. 54) STATE: God is just in His treatment of all READ: Read aloud Job 36:17-23, while people even when we feel life is unfair. the group considers how Job might have READ: Lead the group to read Job 36:10 been receiving Elihu’s message. together chorally. DISCUSS: Why are people prone to PRAY: Close in prayer, asking that the question God and to instruct Him on what Lord will lead us to examine our hearts He should do and how He should do it? and confess our sins before Him. Ask that (PSG, p. 53) When we can’t understand our He will instruct us in His ways and grant circumstances, how can our faith in God’s us peace as we face life’s struggles. Pray power help us wait on His timing? that He will guide us to honor Him with our praise.

MUSIC NATURE Prior to the group time, enlist four people Read aloud Job 36:24-33 directing to read one verse each of “Search Me, attention to God’s power over creation. O God,” by J. Edwin Orr. The hymn can Create a list of the ways God demonstrates be located in the Baptist Hymnal. As an His sovereignty over nature. Discuss how alternate idea, pre-enlist one person to sing this evidence in nature supports the Key the hymn for the group. Doctrine (PSG, p. 53) that God the Father is all powerful, all knowing, all loving, and CASE STUDY all wise. Lead the group to offer praise to God for His creation and mighty presence Lead the group to share situations where by allowing people in the group to share people might feel they have been treated one sentence of praise. After each sentence unfairly. Ideas might include being passed is shared, direct the group to respond with over for a job promotion or being penalized the words “Great is our God.” for something they didn’t do. As a group, develop a case study of three to four sentences followed by a question. Direct SCRIPTURE MEMORY the group to turn to a neighbor and discuss Gather paper and pencils. possible responses to the question. Distribute paper and pencils to the group. Direct them to complete the Bible WORD STUDY Skill activity on page 49 of the PSG: Gather Bible dictionaries. Focus on Job 36:10. Review the verse in different translations including both older Divide into teams of two to four, providing and contemporary translations. How did a Bible dictionary for each team. Direct the comparison of translations impact how each team to utilize the Bible dictionary you understand the verse? Write your own to discover more about the words affliction, paraphrase of the verse and memorize the verse fairness, and justice (or their synonyms) and your paraphrase. as they are used in Job 36:8-23. Each team could be assigned one word or all three words. Highlight Psalm 99:4; TESTIMONY Proverbs 2:6-9; and 2 Corinthians 4:17 Prior to the group time, enlist a volunteer to enhance the understanding of the to share about a time when he or she was words studied. (1) lovingly compelled by a friend to reconsider actions taken and repent, or (2) encouraged to wait on God’s timing in a difficult circumstance (health, financial, parenting, legal, and so forth).

JOB 40:1-14 MEMORY VERSE: JOB 40:9

STUDY Job 40:1-14, analyzing the attributes Prepare to Display: of God that are evident in Job’s response to Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) God. Reflect on previous sessions where Job Pack Item 5 (Poster: Job’s Statements of Faith) indicated that God was being unfair and he desired an opportunity to present his case. Pack Item 9 (Handout: Memory Verses Bookmark) Focus on how the Lord presented Himself and humbled Job to recognize the power of God in CONSULT QuickSource for additional questions the face of people’s inadequacies. to use during the group time and review the Explore the Bible Adult Commentary for CREATE a teaching plan for your group using additional biblical insights (available for the ideas on pages 70–72. Focus on how God purchase from LifeWay.com). responded to Job’s past charges and humbled him by demonstrating His attributes. Note that REINFORCE the study by prayerfully God again revealed how only He is the Creator remembering how God has been faithful in your and Controller of the earth. life in the past and how this helps you to trust Him with the future. Share one of these ways GATHER the following items: with your group in a follow-up email. Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs)

Date of My Bible Study:______63 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE Things would be different if we were in charge. We may have cried when God a sibling got what we thought to be better treatment as we called into God is all powerful and all question the fairness of mom or dad. They may have let us know that we knowing; and His perfect would be free to make that decision once we were parents, but that for knowledge extends to all things, right now, they were the parents and we were not. We may even accuse God past, present, and future, of being unfair because of life’s situations. Job raised this issue, and God including the future decisions of responded by reminding Job of His credentials. His free creatures (Jer. 32:27). (In PSG, p . 55) What qualifies a person to be in charge? What credentials might a person need to be in charge of your family?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL JOB 38:1–41:34 Compare similar passages. Throughout the Book of Job, the three friends argued that Job’s only relief Compare the exchanges from suffering would come after his repentance. As we have seen, they between God and Job with the assumed Job was holding onto a sinful reliance on earthly gifts rather exchanges between God and other than loving the Giver of those gifts. Job maintained that the answer to people. Review Genesis 3:8-19; his questions regarding suffering would come from God. Ultimately, he 1 Kings 19:9-18; and Jonah 4:9-11. believed God would vindicate him and prove his claims of innocence How was each conversation God’s to be true. For this reason, he longed for the opportunity to meet with response to a challenge to His God. In chapter 38, Job was finally granted what he desired. However, justice or power? How does the their face-to-face meeting did not go the way he anticipated. Ready to response given to Adam, Eve, confront God for all the suffering he endured, Job found himself being Elijah, and Jonah compare to the confronted by God. In God’s first speech proceeding from a whirlwind, He confronted Job response given to Job? What with questions—questions for which Job had no answer. This should not can we learn about God from surprise the reader. After all, what human was there when God created these conversations? the world and can give an account for how it was made (Job 38:4-7)? How could any human find the source of the sea or explain how to control it (38:8-11)? Has any human being been to the realm of the dead and lived to tell about it (38:16-17)? Is there any human who can command the morning, control precipitation, or intimately know the heavens above (38:12-38)? Even when it comes to the creatures of the earth, what human being can demonstrate complete dominion over the animal kingdom (38:39–39:30)? Absolutely no one. Thus, in the first speech, God put Job in his proper place. The wisdom and power of God towered over Job to bring him to a place of humility.

64 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Now that Job was made aware of his ignorance, he responded by pledging silence (40:3–5). In His second speech, God inquired of Job’s power compared to the other creatures God had made (40:6–41:34). Job responded by humbly submitting to God’s authority and apologetically showing remorse for his earlier wild words (42:1-6). Even while Job had defended himself against his friends’ accusations, he admitted here his insufficiency for the mysterious purposes of God. In this section of the book, the Creator-creature distinction is on full display in God’s monologue and questioning of Job.

EXPLORE THE TEXT

CORRECT ME? (JOB 40:1-5) Verses 1-2 After His initial barraging Job with questions (chaps. 38–39), illustrating VERSES 1-2 Job’s lack of power and wisdom, God landed a final question to end His first speech. The question was simple yet powerfully profound:S hall a 1 And the Lord said faultfinder contend with the Almighty? He who argues with God, let him to Job: 2 “Shall a answer it. God asked Job to justify his heart’s intent in approaching Him the way faultfinder contend with he did. Whenever the line between Creator and creature is blurred, error the Almighty? He who and idolatry result. We see this in the actions of Adam and Eve in the garden argues with God, let him of Eden (Gen. 3). Humans are made in God’s image and likeness; He is not answer it.” made in ours. Many missteps in theology are on account of the implicit idea that God must act as we would act, or that humans can fully understand the ways of God where they have not been revealed. God reveals Himself to us in human terms, but we must not think our limited understanding is the ultimate reference point for God’s actions.

Whenever the line between Creator and creature is blurred, error and idolatry result.

What mere creature would contend with the Almighty and instruct Him? The usage of the name Shaddai is enlightening for understanding the foundation of this speech. This name is sometimes translated “My God” or “Almighty.” Therefore, Job was speaking to the Almighty God, the One who created the heavens and earth and all creatures that dwell therein. The name Shaddai carries with it the meaning, “the overpowerer.” This reminds us that it is impossible for anyone or anything to keep God from accomplishing His sovereign decrees. In this section of Job, God gave Job an intensely clear and awe-inspiring description and display of His power. No one can thwart God’s will, and no creature can fully understand His ways.

Session 6 : Power Displayed 65 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Verses 3-5 VERSES 3-5 Knowing that Job intended to confront Him, God revealed Himself as the Almighty to humble Job and to quiet his mouth. In other words, God set 3 Then Job answered Job straight before He began to address the perceived unfairness of his the Lord and said: suffering. When God demanded a response, Job did so in proper form. Job 4 really had nothing to say, even though God invited him to do so. Job rightly “Behold, I am of small recognized that these matters were beyond his understanding. In fact, they account; what shall I are beyond the reach of a human’s power of knowledge. It is clear that Job answer you? I lay my realized his ignorance in these matters and his mistake in suggesting that he might reprove God. hand on my mouth. Job had previously thought he would put God in His place, but it was 5 I have spoken once, and God who set Job in his proper place here. In relation to Almighty God, Job I will not answer; twice, rightly described himself as of small account. For this reason, Job covered but I will proceed no his mouth and remained silent, just as others had once done in His presence (Job 29:9). Job knew better than to fire back at God. While he had spoken further.” in previous chapters, now that he had an audience with God, he regretted his prideful intent. In sum, God challenged Job to explain his credentials to correct Him, leading Job to admit that he could add nothing more to what he already had said. He thus pledged to remain silent. It is not necessarily wrong to question the Lord as He works out His will in the world, and particularly in our lives. It is not wrong unless we become sinfully adamant that He justify His actions. Human beings may have questions about how God rules His world but have no justification for demanding answers for circumstances they do not deem appropriate. Oftentimes children will ask their parents “why” questions when they are told to do something. There is nothing necessarily wrong with that, unless the child’s questions reveal a heart of rebellion or their actions are disobedient. Sometimes the parent’s explanation “because I told you so” should be enough. As Christians, we must remember that God is the Creator and we are the creatures. Furthermore, we do not know enough about creation to understand all of God’s ways. Only God knows the beginning from the end, and we must learn to trust His wisdom in working out His purposes. Most times the proper response to God’s work is not to question Him but to be silent before Him. How many times have we sat in silence before God? The answer to this question may reveal our disposition before Him.

How does admission of a limited perspective aid us in navigating the difficult waters of suffering?

66 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources QUESTION MY JUSTICE? (JOB 40:6-9) Verses 6-9 Even after Job’s admission of insignificance and his decision to quiet his VERSES 6-9 mouth, God continued. In fact, God launched into a second speech directed squarely at Job and intended to search his heart. At this point it is clear 6 Then the Lord that God was not done; Job had not yet fully learned his lesson. Therefore, answered Job out of in verses 6-9, God answered Job out of the whirlwind. The Lord called Job to prepare for another set of questions. The call the whirlwind and said: was to stand and provide an answer. In fact, God called to Job to dress 7 “Dress for action like a for action like a man. God asked, Job, are you ready to put me in the man; I will question you, wrong? The irony of this conversation is clear: Job knew how it felt to be and you make it known questioned and judged by those who had drawn wrong conclusions about 8 his circumstances. Here the tables turned, and God was showing Job that to me. Will you even he had overextended his perceived judgments about the hidden purposes put me in the wrong? of God in his life. Will you condemn me Throughout this book, Job had agreed that sinners should suffer but did not see himself as meriting the suffering he experienced. Therefore, that you may be in the Job probably believed that his suffering had been unjust. Perhaps Job was right? 9 Have you an arm more concerned with defending his innocence than he was defending God’s like God, and can you justice. After all, Job had unfairly questioned God’s justice (v. 8). In essence, thunder with a voice Job thought that by allowing the wicked to flourish and the innocent (himself) to suffer, God did not render fair judgment. But as we have seen, like his? there are times when things do not seem to be happening according to our perspective of what is just. For Job, these were strong judgments to land against the Almighty. Even still, God did not explain His purposes in permitting Job’s suffering. As He unrelentingly questioned Job, we begin to understand that God’s purpose is to demonstrate that He alone has the wisdom and power to sovereignly decree what happens in the lives of His creatures. This becomes clear from God’s reference to His arm, which is a metaphor for God’s power providentially deployed in human history. In the Bible, the “arm of the Lord” is anthropomorphic language—a vivid image of God’s power in both salvation and judgment. (See Ex. 6:6; 15:16.) It is not only God’s arm but also His voice that reverberates like thunder, displaying His unrivaled power. This is evident in Psalm 29:3-4: “The voice of the Lord is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the Lord, over many waters. The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.” Both of these images of God’s arm and voice are utilized to evoke visions of God’s majesty and unrivaled power. The purpose was to put Job in his proper place. Believers must be careful to avoid viewing God as unfair and unjust. It is important to note in this passage that God did not explain the meaning of Job’s suffering. In the case of Job, as with many of us, suffering is a mystery. Job came to accept the mystery because he feared and respected God. Because Job came to know who God is in light of what He had revealed, he was able to accept what God ordained even though he didn’t understand God’s ways. God chose not to reveal these mysteries to Job, and He didn’t

Session 6 : Power Displayed 67 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources have to. God is God and does not owe His creatures an explanation for all of His acts. Even if God laid out the blueprint for His purposes in Job’s suffering, would Job be able to bear it or to agree with it? Probably not. Like Job, all humans have a limited perspective. This reminds us that our response to God’s will, even in suffering, matters. The point is, we must learn to trust God and continue trusting Him when we cannot grasp His plan and purposes.

How does the belief that God is perfectly just settle our hearts in times when we do not understand why God ordains certain circumstances in our lives?

SAVE YOURSELF? (JOB 40:10-14) Verses 10-14 VERSES 10-14 Once again, it becomes clear that Job could not answer God’s questions. When it comes to justice on earth, Job was making claims about things 10 “Adorn yourself with beyond what he was able to comprehend or accomplish. God is unrivaled majesty and dignity; in power and majesty; in comparison, Job was insignificant. Mankind, the crown of creation, pales in comparison to the Creator. clothe yourself with In Scripture, God alone is declared as being adorned with majesty and glory and splendor. dignity and clothed with glory and splendor. (See Pss. 47:4; 93:1; 96:6.) 11 Pour out the Yet here, God challenged Job to adorn himself with such qualities. If Job could adorn himself like God, then he could act like God and execute overflowings of your justice on the wicked. God continued with His challenge. He told Job to anger, and look on look on everyone who is proud and abase him, to tread down the wicked everyone who is proud and to bind their faces in the world below. Underneath this was the reality and abase him. 12 Look that Job did not possess the righteous anger necessary to execute justice and bury the wicked. Therefore, he had no right to question God in these on everyone who is things. God and Job were not equals. proud and bring him The speech ends with God’s conclusion. Unless Job was able to do the low and tread down things listed above, there was no reason for God to treat him as an equal and explain His actions. Job knew all too well that he could not deliver on the wicked where they these challenges, much less deliver himself from what God had permitted 13 stand. Hide them all in to befall him. In the end, God challenged Job to see that if he were truly the dust together; bind more knowledgeable and just than God, then he should be able to adorn their faces in the world himself with splendor, put down the wicked, and save himself from 14 calamity. However, Job remained silent. below. Then will I also The way God engaged Job in this passage reminds all of us that acknowledge to you that there are times when our mouths should stop before the great Creator your own right hand can and righteous Judge over all the earth. Job began to find true wisdom in bowing down before the Lord in reverent fear. There is nothing or no save you.

68 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources one who can thwart God’s sovereign will, which is providentially worked out in human history. As Christians, we should find comfort in this truth, knowing that God is at work even when we do not understand our situation or see how it will be used for His purposes. Only God has the wisdom and power to rule His creation. If God is the Creator of all things, then He has the right to govern creation according to His will. If God is the sustainer of creation, we must learn to trust that He will do what is good and right according to His purposes. As Creator and Judge, God always has the last word. Therefore, all of our judgments must proceed from Him, because in the end every knee will bow and agree that what God has done is right and just.

God is at work even when we do not understand our situation or see how it will be used for His purposes.

This distinction between God and humanity was first blurred at the fall in Genesis 3 and is diminished anytime we assume God’s intent, question His actions, or rebel against His will. While He denies us the ability to draw near to Him and cross the Creator-creature divide, God sent His Son as a man to draw near to us. While Job met God face to face with the intent of accusing God, God accused Job. However, Jesus took upon Himself our sin so that we can stand in the presence of our Creator as creatures without accusation. The good news of the gospel is the ultimate example of God’s good and perfect will being worked out in the world through suffering. Job may not have been given a reason for his suffering. But we have been given the reason for Jesus’ suffering, namely, that we would escape the eternal suffering that is just for all of us. There is no place to question the justice of God in the cross. Jesus died for us, in our place, as the just sacrifice for our sin so that we could be vindicated in Him.

God’s speech to Job here may seem a little unsettling; however, in what ways is it a sign of mercy compared to how God could have justly responded?

FOCUS ATTENTION ASK: What are some ways in which people might subtly question or underestimate ENGAGE: As the group arrives, direct God’s ability or character? (PSG, p. 58) attention to the following words displayed on a white board or chart paper: Academic Diplomas, Professional License, Badge, READ: Invite a volunteer to read Certification, Password, and Security Job 40:1-5, as the group listens for the Clearance. Direct the group to discuss Lord’s question to Job. what the words might have in common. DISCUSS: In teams of two to four people EXPLAIN: All of these words represent a address the following question: Why are type of credential. Usually credentials provide people prone to question God’s justice and evidence that a person is qualified for certain fairness? (PSG, p. 58) privileges or positions. Credentials provide EXPLAIN: God got Job’s attention and confidence and trust. helped Job admit he was insignificant before ASK: What credentials might a person an Almighty God. Job’s perspective needed need to be in charge of your family? (PSG, adjusting. p. 55) How would you describe God’s credentials? READ: Direct the group to silently read Job 40:6-9, looking for questions TRANSITION: In previous weeks, we have seen God asked. how Job continuously questioned why God was allowing his dire circumstances. His fourth DISCUSS: God responded by demanding friend to speak, Elihu, accused Job of inflated answers from Job. How does God confront pride and self-righteousness. In today’s study, people today who question Him? How does God responded directly to Job, reminding him that compare to the way God confronted of His credentials. Job? (PSG, p. 60) HIGHLIGHT: Throughout the Bible we find EXPLORE THE TEXT God communicating with people in a variety of ways. Moses encountered a burning bush CONTEXTUALIZE: Utilizing Understand (Ex. 3:1-4), while Gideon received a message the Context (PSG, p. 56) and Pack Item 2 through a fleece (Judg. 6:37-40). God spoke to (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) provide an Job through a whirlwind or tornadic storm overview of Job 38:1–41:34. Indicate that (Job 38:1-18). Job needed to recognize God’s this is the first time God responded directly power over all things, particularly creation. to Job. Read aloud Job 38:2 to summarize God’s first response to Job. Explain: ANALYZE: Lead the group to identify Previously Job claimed that God ignored him how God chooses to communicate with and would not answer; here, God’s response people today. demonstrated that Job was wrong about God.

70 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources EXAMINE: Read Hebrews 1:1-3 to confirm SUMMARIZE AND that God speaks today through the work CHALLENGE of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit in people’s lives. REFLECT: Lead the group to examine their lives for areas where they may have tried EXPLAIN: The arm of God referenced in to rely on themselves rather than on God’s verse 9 was an idiom people used to speak of instruction. strength. It was essential that Job came to recognize that only God’s strong arm offers SUMMARIZE: Point out Pack Item 5 guidance, hope, and restoration. (Poster: Job’s Statements of Faith) displayed in the room. Guide the group to read the ASK: How is questioning God’s justice verses on the poster and then turn to a the same as placing one’s self as equal to neighbor to share one insight that Job or greater than God? Why is questioning learned as he listened to God. God’s omnipotence evidence of a limited or diminished perspective of God? ASK: How does the lesson Job learned (PSG, p. 61) relate to your life today? EVALUATE: Challenge the group to reflect READ: Direct a volunteer to read aloud on the first question set from page 63 of Job 40:10-14, instructing the group to the PSG throughout the week: Share with listen for God’s commands to Job if he was the group ways God has demonstrated to assuming he was as powerful as God. you His faithfulness and wisdom in the STATE: God challenged Job to act as if he past. How does knowing God has been were God. If Job could successfully meet the trustworthy in the past assure you about commands set forth by God, then Job could your circumstances today? save himself. However, Job recognized that he PRAY: Close in prayer, thanking the Lord did not have the power of the sovereign God. that He knows the challenges each person ASK: How did Job’s actions display his faces. Ask for His help to consistently lack of trust in God? How does a season trust Him in all situations. Thank Him of difficulty reveal our weaknesses and for the salvation He provided through ultimately strengthen our faith? Jesus Christ. Pray that He will lead the group to praise and honor His name in all REREAD: As a group read chorally Job 40:9. that they do. Distribute Pack Item 9 (Handout: Memory Verses Bookmark) to each person to assist in memorizing the verse reflecting hope in God regardless of our circumstances. Ask the group to consider who they might share this verse with this week. TRANSITION: As Job discovered, people are seriously lacking compared to the powerful attributes of our God; it’s unfathomable for humans to understand God’s wisdom and power.

MUSIC COMPARE Prior to the session, acquire a recording Lead the group to complete the Bible of “The Lion and the Lamb,” by Leeland Skill (PSG, p. 62) to study other biblical Mooring, Brian Mark Johnson, and interactions between God and people: Benton Brown. Have the song playing in Compare the exchanges between God and the background as the group arrives. At Job with the exchanges between God the conclusion of the group time, return to and other people. Review Genesis 3:8-19; the song to explain how it illustrates God’s 1 Kings 19:9-18; and Jonah 4:9-11. How was power. Choose to read the lyrics of the each conversation God’s response to a challenge chorus or have someone prepared to lead to His justice or power? How does the response the group in singing the chorus. given to Adam, Eve, Elijah, and Jonah compare to the response given to Job? What can we DRAMA learn about God from these conversations? Enlist one person to read the words spoken to Job by the Lord in Job 40:2,7-14. Prepare VISUAL/OBJECT LESSON a recording of the reading or have the Gather two small weights used person standing where they aren’t visible to for exercising. the group but can be heard. Enlist another person to portray Job’s words and physical Display the weights, relating that response to the Lord as recorded in Job many athletes lift weights to build up 40:3-5. Insert the reading or recording and their strength to have more power and role play of Job as each passage is studied. endurance in their sport. In a similar fashion, God demonstrates His power over all creation in Job 38:1–41:34. Guide a NATURE/RESEARCH discussion about the nature of God’s power Gather Bible dictionaries, pencils, when compared to people’s. and paper. Divide the group into two teams. To enhance the study Job 40–41, research the two creatures, the Behemoth and the Leviathan, described in the chapters by directing each team to discover more about one of the creatures. Encourage them to read Job 40:15–41:34 as well as use the Bible dictionaries. Allow time for each team to report their findings. Be prepared to highlight how the creatures demonstrate God’s power as Creator and also His power to control all of creation.

JOB 42:1-11 MEMORY VERSE: JOB 42:5

STUDY Job 42:1-11, consulting a Bible dictionary Prepare to Display: to gain clear definitions for confession and Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) repentance. Be prepared to connect Job’s role Pack Item 5 (Job’s Statements of Faith) as mediator between God and his friends to Jesus Christ as our Mediator. Read Daniel 4:35 Pack Item 6 (Key Verses: Job 13:15-16) and Hebrews 8:6 and note how these verses CONSULT the weekly Explore the Bible adult connect to the verses in Job 42. podcast to gain insights on the go about this CREATE a teaching plan for your group using week’s study on Ministry Grid, Apple Podcasts, the ideas on pages 80–82. Prayerfully complete Stitcher, Spotify, LifeWay’s Digital Pass, or at your own notetaking sheet as described in the goExploreTheBible.com/adults-training. teaching plan. Be prepared to share an example REINFORCE the study by sending an email to from your sheet as needed. the group inviting them to share ways they are GATHER the following items: depending on God. Ask them to “reply to all” when they respond. Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs)

A pencil and paper for each person

A camera

Pictures of sunsets, places, sporting events, or historical sites

Date of My Bible Study:______73 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE Reading about something, hearing about it, or watching it on television can God the Son never compare to witnessing it in person. Seeing a professional sporting Jesus ascended into heaven event live gives you a greater appreciation of the skill of the athletes. and is now exalted at the right Visiting a historical location gives you a clearer view of the events that took hand of God where He is the One place there. Observing a sunset over an ocean opens your eyes to the true Mediator, fully God, fully man, beauty of God’s creation. At the end of the Book of Job, Job said that he in whose Person is effected the had heard about God but now he had seen Him. Job had gained a greater reconciliation between God and understanding of God. man (1 Tim. 2:5-6). (In PSG, p . 64) Think about the first time you saw a professional sporting event live or visited an important historical location. How did visiting or seeing that in person impact your understanding of that sport or place?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL JOB 42:1-17 Review a Bible dictionary article for insight. In this last chapter of the Book of Job, the Lord revealed Himself to Job in Read a Bible dictionary article on a very direct way. In response to this meeting, Job demonstrated complete the role of a priest. Review some humility by submitting to God’s sovereign power. Job also showed sorrow for his earlier disposition toward God in light of his suffering. Even though to the passages identified in the Job had defended himself against his friends’ charges of hidden sin and article, paying close attention rightly ascribed his suffering to the providential purposes of God, here he to how the role of priest was admitted that his earlier understanding of the situation lacked perspective. fulfilled by Jesus. How does Job realized that his earlier assumptions regarding his circumstances what Job was called upon to were based on insufficient knowledge of God’s mysterious will. do give us insight into what it While discussing the attributes of God revealed in this Bible passage, means for today’s believers to be it is important to keep in mind that all of God’s qualities and actions do called priests? not exist in isolation from one another. God is one. From our limited perspective we can know God only through divine revelation. In theological studies, His attributes are often categorized based on His revealed words and divine actions. The incommunicable attributes of God are those that belong to God alone—attributes that humanity does not possess. God is unchanging in His perfections and thus can be trusted to act in accordance with His will at all times. Job learned these truths from hard lessons and direct conversations with God. It also reminds us that we cannot fully understand God’s ways, for we do not possess the perspective needed to trace His paths. However, what God reveals to us about His attributes is sufficient for a life of faith and trust in His hand.

74 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources In the end, God sovereignly chose not only to vindicate Job before his friends (42:7-9) but also to restore Job to fullness of life and family. Job’s trial was unimaginably painful, but his life ended full of blessing (vv. 10-17). These blessings came as a gift from the one true God who can be trusted to work out His will in the lives of His children. This does not mean that God will always vindicate or restore those who suffer greatly in this life. But knowing that God is unchanging does allow us to trust that, in the end, those who put their faith in Him will receive divine vindication through Christ and heavenly blessings beyond imagination. As much as it would have brought Job comfort to finally be vindicated before his friends, it was more important that he found restoration before his God. In the end, the only opinion of us that really matters is God’s. God’s opinion of us was made clear on the cross of Christ. When people repent of sin and place their faith in Christ, they will be vindicated before God, because God will accept them not as they are, but as Christ is.

EXPLORE THE TEXT VERSES 1-2 ADMIT (JOB 42:1-6) 1 Then Job answered Verses 1-2 the Lord and said: In many ways, Job 42:1-6 represents the climax of the dialogue between 2 “I know that you can God and Job. Job’s initial response to God was unsatisfactory and brought do all things, and that no about an onslaught of questions from God to put him in his place (40:3-5). Here the exchange was resolved. The first thing Job confessed was God’s purpose of yours can be absolute and uninhibited sovereignty over all things. The sovereignty of thwarted. God means that He is the Lord over creation. As sovereign, He exercises His rule with absolute authority. God’s control means that everything happens according to His plan and intention. God’s authority means that all His word ought to be submitted to, and His commands ought to be obeyed. In the context of the Book of Job, this means that God can do anything He plans, including permitting an innocent person like Job to VERSES 3-4 suffer. Job confessed,I know that you can do all things, and that no 3 ‘Who is this that purpose of yours can be thwarted. This is a breathtaking admission from a man who had suffered profoundly. This confession did not come easily but hides counsel without through mental toil and emotional anguish. Many times, the most precious knowledge?’ Therefore truths we hold about God are strengthened from the places of deepest I have uttered what I did experience. not understand, things Verses 3-4 too wonderful for me, In light of this confession, Job repeated God’s words back to Him in the which I did not know. form of a question, Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge? 4 ‘Hear, and I will speak; Job admitted he had done just that. He had spoken of things he did not I will question you, and understand, indeed, things too wondrous for him to know. The things Job spoke of concerning God came from a place of insufficient knowledge. you make it known God’s will in his circumstances was hidden or obscured. In this sense, Job’s to me.’

Session 7 : Dependence Declared 75 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources questioning of God without full knowledge only made things more difficult. It was only through God’s counter-questioning that Job realized he was pushing the boundaries and reaching beyond his limits. This was illustrated in chapters 38–41, where Job was shown to have limited knowledge of the natural world. Therefore, how could Job speak as though he possessed sufficient knowledge of God’s moral universe? There is a great lesson in humility here, namely, that one cannot assume or prescribe meaning to God’s actions without God’s clear revealed purposes in those actions.

How does professing our shortcomings open the door for greater understanding of God?

Verse 5 VERSE 5 Job admitted he was operating from secondhand knowledge about God. Based on hearsay, Job had learned that God rewards the righteous 5 I had heard of you by and punishes the wicked. However, God does not always operate in this the hearing of the ear, manner from a human perspective. There are times when the wicked seem to flourish and the righteous face suffering and trial. At this point, Job had but now my eye sees you; gained greater wisdom by seeing God for who He is—the sovereign Lord of the universe and not a divine vending machine of blessings and judgments. As God revealed Himself to Job, Job’s understanding and wisdom was enlarged. Like the psalmist admitted in Psalm 73:16-17, Job could say: “But when I thought how to understand this, it seemed to me a wearisome task, until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end.” Like Job and the psalmist, as we accept the Lord’s control over all things, even suffering, we see Him as God and Lord in a new way.

Verse 6 VERSE 6 Finally, Job expressed his remorse: I despise myself, and repent in dust and ashes. At first glance, this seems to coincide with the assertions of Job’s 6 therefore I despise friends that he needed to repent and be restored. However, 42:7-8 denies that myself, and repent in his friends were correct. What then did Job repent of in verse 6? The Book of Job makes it clear that he did not suffer because of a particular sin. However, dust and ashes.” we do see that he became bitter toward God in his suffering (chap. 3). Job repented of the bitterness that had grown in his heart toward God, which led to his accusation that God was unjust and had treated him unfairly. God did not allow Job to grow in bitterness but intervened to bring him to a place of humble trust and submission. Thus, Job shifted his focus from demanding answers (that the Lord never provided) to gaining peace by submitting to the Lord, even though he did not have all the answers to his questions. In the same way, believers can admit their dependence on God for all things in life. This shift in the mind of Job was a gift of grace from God. As always, when God reveals sinful attitudes of the heart (like bitterness) it is always with the intent of providing an opportunity to repent.

76 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources REPENT (JOB 42:7-9) Verse 7 VERSE 7 Like the opening two chapters of the Book of Job, the conclusion returns 7 After the Lord had to narrative prose. After Job repented of his bitterness and submitted to God, God turned His attention to pronouncing His displeasure with Job’s spoken these words to three friends. God addressed Eliphaz as the representative leader of the Job, the Lord said to group and expressed His anger at them for incorrectly speaking about Him: Eliphaz the Temanite: My anger burns against you and against your two friends. Their assertion “My anger burns against that Job was guilty of sin because he suffered (based on the idea that only sinners suffer) was not true, and they needed to repent. The three friends you and against your showed no signs of backing down from their assertions, unlike Job, who in two friends, for you have the end repented of his bitter heart. Job repented, and now it was time for not spoken of me what his three friends to do the same. is right, as my servant Verses 8-9 Job has. God chose to show the friends grace in allowing Job to intercede on their behalf by offering sacrifices as a sign of their repentance. The text tells us they brought seven bulls and seven rams to Job as God commanded. The offering of seven bulls and seven rams is a complete number, thus representing their complete repentance. (See Num. 23:1; Ezek. 45:23-25.) VERSES 8-9 Job acted as their mediator before God, just as he did for his children 8 Now therefore take in Job 1:5. Moreover, by commanding that the friends go to Job and seek prayer indicates that they must seek his forgiveness as well as God’s. By seven bulls and seven using their exact names, Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite rams and go to my and Zophar the Naamathite, God focused on the details necessary for servant Job and offer repentance. This is a call for three specific people to repent of specific sins up a burnt offering for by following specific commands. Sin should never be seen as an abstract principle but as specific attitudes and actions that call for active repentance. yourselves. And my In the end, the text indicates that they were restored in their relationship servant Job shall pray to Job as well as God because they responded as God had directed them. for you, for I will accept There is a lesson that can be learned from the actions of Job’s friends throughout the book. There are times when God allows inexplicable his prayer not to deal suffering in the lives of His saints. Like Job’s friends, we must be careful in with you according to our help (even with the best intentions) to not increase their pain. The Book your folly. For you have of Job teaches us that God is gentle even with misguided counselors. As we not spoken of me what have seen before, we must be careful not to ascribe reasons or meaning for all suffering. Our first posture must be to weep with those who weep. God is right, as my servant cares for our relationships with other Christians and calls us to intervene Job has.” 9 So Eliphaz the and even pray for them in times of struggle. Prayer for suffering saints, Temanite and Bildad the rather than philosophical pontifications or theological constructs, is the best response to their suffering. Shuhite and Zophar the In the case of Job, God’s command for him to intercede for his oppressors Naamathite went and displays grace in full. Although God was angry with Job’s friends for their did what the Lord had treatment of Job, it was God Himself who took the initiative to restore told them, and the Lord them. Furthermore, by making them depend on Job for their restoration, God dispelled their theology of earning God’s favor through their own accepted Job’s prayer. righteous acts. They could not come to God through their own power but

Session 7 : Dependence Declared 77 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources only through the prayers of another. In all of this, it becomes clear that Job prefigures a greater Intercessor who pleaded on behalf of His torturers. All of these things point to the grace of God in restoring sinners to Himself despite their unworthiness. Job points us to Jesus, who on the cross prayed for the forgiveness of those who would torture and execute Him (Luke 23:34). Just as God accepted Job’s prayer and reconciled the men to Himself and to Job, God accepts Christ’s work on our behalf to reconcile us to Himself and one another. In a very real sense, the questions that arise from the Book of Job are answered in Jesus Christ. Why do the innocent suffer? That has only happened once. Jesus is the only truly innocent sufferer. And the reason for His suffering is made clear in the New Testament. Jesus suffered so that all who believe in Him could repent of their sin and be restored to God. Therefore, when someone suffers, they cannot properly ask if God loves them. Certainly He does. Suffering is no respecter of persons. If anyone ever doubts the love of God, they should look at the cross. Greater is no love than this, that a man would lay down his life for his friends.

How does God’s grace toward Job’s friends give us hope as imperfect friends? How does Job’s intercession for his friends point us forward to Jesus, the greatest friend we could ever know?

RESTORED (JOB 42:10-11) Verses 10-11 At the close of the book, we are told how God restored Job’s life and fortunes. It is important to state that the end of the book does not confirm the friends’ theology of retribution. As we have seen, the innocent can suffer according to the will of God. The wicked can experience relative peace and blessings in this life. In the same way, we must remember that God did not necessarily restore Job’s life because he repented but because it was God’s good pleasure to do so. Again, God is sovereign and will do what He wills. Job was never told why he suffered. He simply submitted to the wisdom of God and learned humility under His powerful hand. Assuming that God will always restore fortune to those who repent leads to the mistake that Job’s friends made for the entirety of the book. While there are general observable patterns for how the righteous and wicked fare in this life, we must be careful to not put God in a box. In the case of Job in particular, his life was restored and his possessions doubled. It was in God’s good pleasure to tie Job’s restoration to his intercession on behalf of the friends who treated him so wrongly.

78 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Interestingly enough, Job’s restoration began with the very ones who had been so hard on him and had distanced themselves from him when he needed them most (Job 6:14-23; 19:13-22). With reconciliation comes VERSES 10-11 restoration of relationships, and now they ate together and comforted one 10 And the Lord restored another, which is a reversal of what had happened before. Before, his friends had multiplied Job’s suffering, now they multiplied his wealth by presenting the fortunes of Job, him with money and gold rings. What a wonderful ending to a painful and when he had prayed troubled life. In the end, Job died an old and happy man, leaving behind a for his friends. And the large, prosperous family and beloved friends. Lord gave Job twice as Once again, we must point out that God does not promise to restore all losses or to fully reward His people in this life. Job’s love for God was much as he had before. not dependent on the gifts and rewards that came from His hand. Now 11 Then came to him all that God had revealed Himself to Job and Job had met Him face to face, his brothers and sisters he had a proper attitude toward God, knowing that God does not always reward everyone with a pain-free life. This teaches us that any good things and all who had known we experience in this life are not deserved but are expressions of divine him before, and ate bread grace. There is nothing we can do to merit or earn God’s grace. with him in his house. While these truths are evident in this life, there is a reward beyond And they showed him our imagination for every righteous person in the age to come. Regardless if we suffer little or suffer deeply, prosperity and pleasantness await those sympathy and comforted who are found righteous in Christ. As Christians, we can be reminded that him for all the evil that what God has in store for His redeemed people, will far outweigh any losses the Lord had brought experienced in this life. In the new heavens and new earth, God’s people will receive an eternal reward that is unimaginable. Isn’t this the good news upon him. And each of of the gospel for all who trust in God? them gave him a piece of Job’s final speech shows his unstoppable God who is at work to heal money and a ring of gold. and save and restore in ways too profound for human understanding. In the end, Job was treated by God better than he deserved. This greater- than-we-could-imagine treatment is available to all people in Jesus Christ. It really is breathtaking to consider the lengths God has gone to offer us the riches of eternity. In Jesus Christ we are treated better than we deserve. Christ took upon Himself what we deserve so that we could experience the eternal joy that only He deserves.

How do the eternal rewards of heaven allow us to accept the fact that God may not vindicate us now or restore certain things we have lost in his life?

FOCUS ATTENTION DISTRIBUTE: Provide each person with a sheet of paper and a pencil. Direct them to DISPLAY: Prior to the session, display a fold the paper in thirds. Label one section camera and several pictures, such as a of the paper Admit, the next section Repent, sunset, a sporting event, or a historical site. and the third section Restored. INTRODUCE: As people arrive, call attention to the camera and the pictures. READ: Invite a volunteer to read Indicate that all of the pictures depict Job 42:1-6, instructing the group to something special that you wanted to listen for Job’s response to the Lord. remember after the experience, but that all of the pictures fail to capture the way it felt EXPLAIN: God’s words to Job in Job 41–42 to see the actual sunset (or view in person demanded a response. Job’s words revealed the sporting event or historical site). what he had learned from God. ASK: Think about the first time you saw a IDENTIFY: Lead the group to turn to professional sporting event live or visited a neighbor and together describe at an important historical location. How did least two things Job learned from his visiting or seeing that in person impact encounter with God. your understanding of that sport or place? ASK: How does professing our (PSG, p. 64) shortcomings open the door for greater TRANSITION: Job thought he understood God. understanding into God? (PSG, p. 67) He listened to his first three friends accuse him EXAMINE: Read aloud Daniel 4:35, of sinning against God, defended his innocence directing the group to compare this verse to them, and asked to plead his case before God. with Job 42:2-3. In today’s Scripture passage, Job revealed that he had seen God with his own eyes. REREAD: Read again Job 42:6, noting Job’s confession of his sin. Highlight that Job saw God with a clarity he did not have EXPLORE THE TEXT until now. REVIEW: Summarize Job 40:1-2, ASK: How are confession and repentance reminding the group that Job pridefully an expression of dependence on God? had requested a chance to plead his case before God. Utilizing Understand the WRITE: Direct the group to summarize or Context (PSG, p. 65), Pack Item 2 (Outlines draw an illustration of Job 42:1-6 under of Job and Ecclesiastes) and Pack Item 5 the heading Admit. (Job’s Statements of Faith), briefly recap Job’s change in circumstances, the reaction and GUIDE: Using Pack Item 6 (Key Verses: Job words from his friends, as well as God’s 13:15-16), note that Job had determined to response to Job. follow God despite not knowing the future. Ask: How can professing our faith and STATE: In today’s study Job replied to hope in God help us face the unknown or the Lord, revealing all that he had learned impossible realities of life? about God.

80 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources READ: Invite a volunteer to read Job 42:7-9, TRANSITION: Job illustrated for us his greater guiding the group to listen for God’s words understanding of God and modeled a deeper to Job’s friends. faith in God. STATE: God addressed Job’s friends, bringing charges against them for the words they spoke SUMMARIZE AND to Job. His friends consistently accused Job CHALLENGE of sinning against God. Their message to Job was repent and God will hear your pleas. God DISCUSS: In teams of two to four people directed the three friends to offer a sacrifice and discuss the following questions: How do to ask Job to pray on their behalf. you see a sovereign God in control of the circumstances of your life? How does a ASK: Why is it such a serious matter when relationship with Jesus Christ impact the apparently pious people misrepresent way you handle life’s difficulties? God? How should believers think about this in light of their calling to be EVALUATE: Lead the group to utilize ambassadors for Christ? (PSG, p. 70) their notetaking sheet to evaluate their own lives as they consider areas that EXPLAIN: While Job served as a mediator need to be addressed by admitting and between God and his friends, today we find repenting of sins. Guide the group to our Mediator through a relationship with reflect on relationships that might need to Jesus Christ. be restored. COMPARE: Lead the group to compare REVIEW: Call for a volunteer to read aloud Job’s actions for his friends with the Summary Statements under Apply Hebrews 8:6. Highlight that a step of the Text (PSG, p. 72). Invite the group to obedience was required of Job’s friends. contemplate living out these statements as They had to repent of their actions, offer believers. Ask: Which of these challenges a sacrifice, and seek forgiveness from you the most today? Explain. both Job and God. Today a step of faith and obedience is required as we are CHALLENGE: The study of Job challenges us offered the opportunity to trust Jesus as to remember God is in control. Even through Savior and Lord. life’s ups and downs, we are promised God’s presence and a future hope of full restoration RECORD: Direct the group to summarize in heaven. Discuss from the PSG (p. 72): or illustrate Job 42:7-9 under the Share with the rest of the group times heading Repent. God used suffering to reveal Himself to you, resulting in your having a deeper READ: Read aloud Job 42:10-11, while knowledge of who He is. What did God the group listens for what occurred reveal about Himself to you through the next for Job. difficulty and how does that encourage you today? ASK: How does what was restored to Job compare to what God will provide His PRAY: Close in prayer, asking the Lord to redeemed people in heaven? (PSG, p. 71) help the group acknowledge that He is in control of all of their circumstances. Pray WRITE: Complete the notetaking sheet that He will lead them to offer praise to by directing the group to summarize Him regardless of their situations. or illustrate Job 42:10-11 under the heading Restored.

MUSIC CREATIVE WRITING Secure a copy of “I Repent,” by Steve Green, Gather markers and paper for each team. Phil Naish, and Dave Noel. Use the song to discuss the importance of confession Divide into teams of two to four people, and repentance in the life of the believer. providing each team with paper and Emphasize that through a relationship with markers. As the study of Job concludes, Jesus Christ we have access to God. direct the teams to write a headline that might have appeared in a newspaper regarding Job’s experiences. Next, follow DRAMATIC PRESENTATION the headline with a two- to three-sentence Prior to the session, enlist one person to explanation. After each team presents their reenact Job 42:2-6. Direct the person to headline, discuss how Job’s experience both verbally and physically portray Job as with life’s struggles should influence our he responded to God through confession lives today. and repentance. Encourage the person to be certain that they illustrate that Job WORD STUDY declared total dependence on God. After the reenactment, highlight the continuing Gather Bible dictionaries. need for believers to examine their own Using Bible dictionaries, lead the group lives for unconfessed sin. to examine the words confess and repent. Discuss the following questions: How RESEARCH are confession and repentance alike and Gather Bible dictionaries. different? What good is confession without repentance? Lead the group to complete the Bible Skill activity on page 69 of the PSG. Consulting TESTIMONY a Bible dictionary for insight, research the role of the priest. Review some of the Pre-enlist a volunteer to share about passages identified in the article, paying his or her specific experience of God’s close attention to how the role of the priest faithfulness during difficult circumstances. was fulfilled by Jesus. Ask:How does what Interview the person, highlighting actions Job was called upon to do give us insight and attitudes that strengthened his or her into what it means for today’s believers to faith. Emphasize God’s sovereignty and be called priests? (PSG, p. 69) how God honors those who humbly profess dependence on Him. PRAY Lead the group to list the needs of those currently undergoing difficult situations and circumstances. Spend intentional time in prayer on behalf of others.

ECCLESIASTES 1:12-15; 2:18-26 MEMORY VERSE: ECCLESIASTES 2:26

STUDY Ecclesiastes 1:12-15; 2:18-26, focusing Prepare to Display: on Solomon’s search for wisdom. Identify Pack Item 1 (Map: Ancient Near East during repeated words and phrases. Consult a Bible Patriarchs) dictionary for additional clarification, along Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) with Pack Item 11 (Handout: “Vanity” and “Under the Sun” in Ecclesiastes), reviewing Solomon’s Pack Item 4 (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?) references to vanity. Note that the Christian Make Copies of: Standard Bible uses the word futile. Focus on Pack Item 8 (Handout: Ecclesiastes Time Line) Ecclesiastes 2:24-26, as Solomon brings clarity Pack Item 11 (Handout: “Vanity” and “Under to his reflections. the Sun” in Ecclesiastes) CREATE a teaching plan for your group using CONSULT the Explore the Bible website for the ideas on pages 90–92. Be sensitive to ways of using a current news event to start and individuals in your group who may be struggling conclude the session (goExploreTheBible.com/ with the loss of a job. Analyze your own LeaderExtras). attitude toward work and how it reflects your dependence on God. REINFORCE the study by contacting the group by email or text to encourage them to continue GATHER the following items: looking for joy in the work they do. Ask them E xtra Personal Study Guides (PSGs) to search for ways they can minister to other people through their work.

Date of My Bible Study:______83 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE People throughout history have tried to take their wealth with them when Stewardship they died. Items placed around mummies and in caskets point to that God is the source of all blessings, effort. The great equalizer in life is death, regardless of how much or how temporal and spiritual; all that little one accumulates. The writer of Ecclesiastes observed that people who we have and are we owe to Him focus solely on work and amassing material possessions come to the end of (2 Cor. 9:8). life without any eternal gains to show for it.

(In PSG, p . 73) In what activities do people engage in their pursuit to find meaning in life?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL ECCLESIASTES 1:1–2:26 Use a Bible dictionary to gain insight into a word. Ecclesiastes begins and ends with the declaration that “all is vanity” (1:2; Read the entry about “vain,” 12:8). In Hebrew, the word translated “vanity” means “vapor” or “breath.” “vanity,” or “futility” in a Bible From this, the word came to mean “temporary,” “fleeting,” “inconsequential,” or even “absurd.” The phrase “under the sun” (1:3) was Solomon’s way of dictionary. Examine some of the referring to life on earth. It is here the Teacher often asked the key question Bible passages included. How of the book: “What does a person gain for all his efforts that he labors at does the way vain or vanity is under the sun?” (1:3). The answer is futility. used outside of Ecclesiastes Solomon’s thesis is expanded under the idea that generations come and give you deeper insight into the go, but the earth remains the same (1:4). Life on this earth is fleeting and emotions expressed by Solomon? temporary, but the earth continues to turn on its axis. Solomon illustrated What modern words might you the futility of his search by explaining that all of his efforts were like use to convey what Solomon chasing after the wind (1:14). meant when he used the word Solomon delved into numerous pursuits he undertook in the search translated as vanity or futility? for life’s meaning. He is a good teacher to learn from here, for he had all the earthly resources and pleasures at his disposal as king of Israel. He tried education and intellectual endeavors but discovered that trying to understand the meaning of life is too perplexing for even the most educated and greatest of human intellects. In the end, it is a bewildering puzzle (1:12-18). Solomon found that even the wisdom one may gain in life is of no real ultimate value. In the end, both the wise and foolish share the same fate—death (2:12-17). Next, he turned his attention to pleasure and the accumulation of possessions. He discovered the “delight of the sons of man” was in the end a disappointment (2:8). Moreover, when one dies, it is likely that those who inherit these possessions will squander them, so all the work was for nothing. It is best to go through life being content with what one

84 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources has (2:18-26). All of this indicates the answer to life’s meaning is outside of human achievement. It should lead humanity to look to God who provides the answer to the question, “What is the meaning of life?” The answer ultimately is in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ.

EXPLORE THE TEXT

LIMITED PERSPECTIVE (ECCL . 1:12-15) Verses 12-15 In this passage, the Preacher or Teacher (Solomon) introduced himself VERSES 12-15 and his life quest while expressing the struggle and frustrations that accompanied him along the way. The Teacher was theking over Israel in 12 I the Preacher have Jerusalem, and with his office came all the resources that one can imagine been king over Israel at his disposal. In this study of Ecclesiastes, we will journey with the Teacher 13 as he goes on a grand experiment, searching far and wide under the sun in in Jerusalem. And an attempt to experience everything life has to offer. From the teacher’s I applied my heart to perspective under the sun, after all that he had experienced, learned, and seek and to search out done, he declared that it was all meaningless. The word vanity suggests that by wisdom all that is which is transitory and of no lasting value. The king was in a position to teach wisdom to his readers, but ironically done under heaven. It his words offer challenge and discomfort. In wisdom literature, fear of God is an unhappy business is the foundation for all human wisdom. (See Prov. 1:7.) Here however, the that God has given to Teacher’s quest centered on his own efforts of learning from experience. From this limited perspective, he found only enigmas that he could not the children of man to resolve on his own. be busy with. 14 I have We’ve all heard the saying, “knowledge is power.” This assumes that the seen everything that more you know, the more you can achieve, and the more you can achieve, is done under the sun, the more power you’ll have. Yet here was one of the wisest men who has ever lived telling us that he had applied his mind and examined and and behold, all is vanity explored all that is done under heaven. In the end it was a striving after and a striving after wind. This imagery illustrates that one cannot fully grasp the meaning of wind. 15 What is crooked life by human ability or by utilizing resources under the sun. cannot be made straight, Ecclesiastes teaches us not to and what is lacking depend on ourselves and our cannot be counted. own resources.

Why did he land on this conclusion? Because in the end, What is crooked cannot be made straight, and what is lacking cannot be counted. All the wisdom in the world cannot fix the deepest problems of humanity. Ecclesiastes teaches us not to depend on ourselves and our own resources, but rather to depend on God and His provisions for our lives. In reality, anything other than dependence on and trust in God is an attempt to grasp the unattainable (to chase after the wind).

Session 8 : What’s the Use? 85 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources The teacher’s quest was an attempt to find meaning in life. Even though there is an advantage to wisdom over folly, “in much wisdom is much vexation” (1:18). As knowledge increases, grief increases. In the end, the same fate comes to both the wise and the fool. This is the first lesson we learn from the Teacher, namely, there is something bittersweet about the limits to human wisdom. On the one hand, the more you know, the better. At the same time, the more you know, the more your sorrow increases because you become more aware of the pain and suffering in the world. This is the tension of living life under the sun. The world doesn’t always make sense, and we cannot fix it. We can all attest to this fact. There are times you wish you knew more and times you wish you knew less. Worldly wisdom can tell you how things are in the natural world, but worldly wisdom does not always provide an answer. The longings of the Teacher in Ecclesiastes tell us there is something beyond the parameters of this life, something beyond the sun that gives us an answer and provides lasting meaning and purpose. As believers, we understand that there is a wisdom that does not lead to despair. Those who have their sights fixed within the parameters under the sun will never see it. The truly wise are those who know Jesus. He is for us wisdom from God. (See 1 Cor. 1:24.) The wise of this world glory in their worldly wisdom. The wise of the world to come boast in Christ as their only hope. Those have found Christ—they are the ones who have found power over death and the true meaning of life. This eternal perspective gives meaning that wisdom in this world cannot obtain.

Why is searching for ultimate meaning using only a natural perspective (limited knowledge and earthly resources) futile?

INHERITANCE BLOWN? (ECCL . 2:18-21) Verses 18-21 Why do we get up in the morning to go to work? Why do we do what we do? There is a sense of purpose that comes in working, producing, and contributing. Perhaps this explains why the first question we often ask each other is, “So, what do you do?” We also realize that work is not easy or always enjoyable. Even still, work is good. In fact, work was given before the fall in Genesis 3 and was included in everything that God declared good. We were originally created to work under and for God in a meaningful and fulfilling way. Our work was meaningful because it was part of God’s plan (Gen. 1:26-28). In the garden, God provided Adam and Eve with meaningful work (work and keep the garden) and with good food (freely eat of every tree in the garden).

86 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources But work after the fall, under the sun, is difficult toil. After the fall (Gen. 3:1-7), we still strive to work meaningfully but are continually frustrated in this effort (3:16-19). In Ecclesiastes 2:18-21, the Teacher VERSES 18-21 described work as vanity. 18 I hated all my toil in As Christians it is important to remember that the curse over all of creation will one day be lifted because Jesus became a curse for us (Gal. which I toil under the 3:13). Therefore, we are to live out our lives under the heavens, looking sun, seeing that I must forward with hope to a day when we will live fully in the joy of fellowship leave it to the man with God (Rev. 21–22). Until that day, there is fulfillment after a hard day’s who will come after work, yet still at the end of the day it is hard on us. Work does, however, 19 allow us the ability to provide for our needs. But what happens to all of the me, and who knows resources that we collect in this life? The teacher tells us plainly. When we whether he will be wise die, the stuff we have goes to someone else: he must leave everything to or a fool? Yet he will be be enjoyed by someone who did not toil for it. The Teacher lamented that he had no control over his own legacy— master of all for which what would come after his life. He envisioned his successor and revealed I toiled and used my a bit of cynicism realizing that his life’s work would be left in the hands of wisdom under the sun. the one who came after him. The teacher admitted he had no control over This also is vanity.20 So who inherited his work. The implication is clear; since his successor had not worked for all he had been handed, he may be utterly foolish in how he I turned about and gave stewards his inheritance. my heart up to despair This uncontrollable outcome is also shown to be an enigma that the over all the toil of my Teacher could not remedy on his own. Therefore, Solomon despaired to think that a person might work hard and with great skill only to die and labors under the sun, have nothing of lasting gain. Solomon’s self-indulgence reflects the natural 21 because sometimes a inclination of the human heart when unchecked (2:1-11). Living prior to person who has toiled Christ, Solomon would not have had the more developed perspective of the with wisdom and afterlife and the renewal of all things that the New Testament affords the modern reader. knowledge and skill For this reason, New Testament readers should have sympathy must leave everything to toward Solomon and his limited perspective. Coming to grips with death be enjoyed by someone without the clearly espoused eternal perspective through Christ is in itself an enigma. In the natural world, death is the last enemy. From a purely who did not toil for it. naturalistic perspective, death is the one enigma that no one has faced and This also is vanity and a lived to tell about it. This is why bringing God and His work through Christ great evil. into the discussion makes all the difference. In Christ, death becomes the gateway into the presence of God. For a Christian, to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. To be present with the Lord is to enjoy eternal pleasures forevermore. In 1 Corinthians 3:10-15, the apostle Paul reminded us that we are not to build our lives on the foundations of gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw. In the end, these things will not last and will be exposed as vain and futile. On the other hand, we are told to build on the eternal foundation of Christ and His kingdom, which will lead to eternal reward. Focusing solely on work and amassing material possessions leads to no eternal gains. Focusing on Christ, however, leads to rewards that moths and rust cannot destroy.

Session 8 : What’s the Use? 87 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources How does Solomon’s lament about the temporary nature of human achievement give us proper perspective on what we should expect from this life?

ENJOY WORK (ECCL . 2:22-26) VERSES 22-23 Verses 22-23 22 What has a man from Solomon established that when we die, the stuff we have goes to someone else. Moreover, he established that we have no control over whether our all the toil and striving successors will be wise or foolish with their inheritance. To make us feel of heart with which he even more sheepish with this enigma, the Teacher said this is the reason toils beneath the sun? we stay up in the night and his heart does not rest. Have you ever asked of your work, how will I ever get it all done? As 23 For all his days are full we lay awake, we are haunted by the reality that there is too much strain of sorrow, and his work without much gain. Indeed, our work is never done! This is another sense is a vexation. Even in the in which work takes its toll on us. But perhaps it takes its toll on us and we night his heart does not stay awake because deep down inside we have made work something it was not meant to be. rest. This also is vanity.

We cannot make the mistake of making a good thing the ultimate thing.

Verses 24-26 The direct references to God in Ecclesiastes are few and far between, but He is referenced in 2:24 as the giver of joy. Thus, these verses give us proper perspective on life under the sun. If we understand that divine gifts of creation are meant to be enjoyed as matters of stewardship rather than as possessions, we see that they have their limits. So we cannot make the mistake of making a good thing the ultimate thing. We cannot look to the gifts to give us what can only come from the Giver Himself. When we receive good things in life as a gift rather than an entitlement, we experience genuine joy and can keep our focus on what truly matters. The Teacher said to savor the pleasure you have when you eat and drink, find enjoyment in a good day’s work. These are gifts to usfrom the hand of God. In fact, according to Solomon, there is nothing better than to stop and enjoy life for what it is and to stop trying to make it what it was never meant to be. Eating, drinking, and enjoying one’s labor are here positively evoked as the gift of God. Enjoying food and drink is a gift often expressed in biblical texts. In Revelation, we read of a meal called “the marriage

88 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources supper of the Lamb” (Rev. 19:6-9). In the end, we shall see provision of food and healing that will last for eternity in the new earth as God dwells with man (Rev. 22:1-2). Therefore, the gifts of eating and drinking here and now simply foreshadow a life of eating and drinking in the presence of God that is to come. Many of us, like the Teacher, labor under the sun and see life’s gifts as an entitlement. However, consider Jesus, who instead of working to gain all for Himself, sacrificially gave His life for others. Which pattern of life is VERSES 24-26 most fulfilling? When we take in all of what the Teacher has said, there are 24 There is nothing better different responses we might make. We can become a bitter skeptic suspended over the abyss of despair, or we might place all of our hope in for a person than that this life, which is a striving after wind. he should eat and drink For the Christian, however, there is another way that gives us both and find enjoyment in humble realism and hopeful optimism. The good news of the gospel gives his toil. This also, I saw, us a humble realism. Nothing in this life can satisfy our souls; only Christ can. But it also gives us a hopeful optimism: we can have hope that this life is from the hand of God, is not all that is. 25 for apart from him Living life as if it is all defined by what is “under the sun” misses the who can eat or who can whole point. We all want our lives to be connected to something beyond the 26 mere pleasures and comforts of this life. We all want to be significant and have enjoyment? For to contribute something more lasting. What defines our end goal? to the one who pleases It seems that the teacher realized that God gave humans life and work him God has given as a means of joy, not despair. Despair arises when humans seek to enjoy wisdom and knowledge life apart from God. As believers, we should enjoy our work, thanking God for His provisions. “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all and joy, but to the to the glory of God” (1 Cor. 10:31). sinner he has given the business of gathering How can the good gifts of this life be a means to turn our worship to God? and collecting, only to How can the good gifts of this life be a distraction from our attention to God and become objects of worship themselves? give to one who pleases God. This also is vanity and a striving after wind.

FOCUS ATTENTION Solomon “spoke 3,000 proverbs, and his songs were 1,005.” People everywhere came INTRODUCE: Prior to the session, secure a to listen to Solomon’s wisdom. Even with photo of an Egyptian mummy. Display the all of the wisdom God provided Solomon, picture and draw the group’s attention to he recognized that he had made many it. Relate that throughout history and even mistakes along the way and that he could today people have tried to take their wealth never surpass God’s unending wisdom. with them when they die. Relate that regardless of what is accumulated during TRANSITION: In Ecclesiastes 1:4-11, Solomon our earthly existence, death comes to all of revealed what he had learned from nature. us and our material gains are left to others. Beginning with verse 12, he moved to what we can learn from his experiences. DISCUSS: Direct the group to turn to a neighbor and discuss the following question: In what activities do people READ: Invite a volunteer to read engage in their pursuit to find meaning in Ecclesiastes 1:12-15, as the group listens life? (PSG, p. 73) for Solomon’s reflections on wisdom. ASK RHETORICALLY: Have you ever felt PARAPHRASE: Guide the group to work like you were caught in a rut of sameness with a partner to restate or paraphrase and didn’t know how to get out of it? these verses. TRANSITION: As we begin a study of the Book GUIDE: Using Pack Item 1 (Map: Ancient of Ecclesiastes, we find the author, Solomon, Near East during Patriarchs), point out reflecting on the meaning and purpose of life the locations of Jerusalem and Egypt. and where it can be found. Distribute copies of Pack Item 8 (Handout: Ecclesiastes Time Line), noting the heavy influence of the Egyptians on Israelite EXPLORE THE TEXT culture. Explain that Solomon witnessed many human inventions and the CONTEXTUALIZE: Ecclesiastes 1:1 accumulation of great wealth, yet he still identifies that the author is the son of found “all is vanity” (v. 14). David, the king in Jerusalem. Solomon Ask: How does the futility of human is considered the author since he was the achievements reveal one’s need for God? only descendant of David who ruled all of (PSG, p. 75) Israel from Jerusalem. Solomon referred to himself as “Teacher” in his reflections HIGHLIGHT: Solomon may have been wiser and musings. Point to page 9 in the PSG or than anyone, but as he wrote Ecclesiastes, he Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) recognized that he had sought meaning in the for a brief overview of the Book of wrong places. Ecclesiastes. Highlight Ecclesiastes 1:3 as a key question repeated throughout the book. DISCUSS: What motivates a person to find meaning and purpose? How does that GUIDE: Explain that 1 Kings 3:7-15 motivation work for and against a person? provides insight into Solomon’s request (PSG, p. 77) to God for discernment to understand justice. In addition, 1 Kings 4:32-34 reveals

90 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources READ: Invite someone to read aloud TRANSITION: In these last verses of Ecclesiastes 2:18-21, asking the group Ecclesiastes 2, Solomon admitted that joy in to picture what Solomon’s body language life comes through a relationship with God and might have been while writing these words. that without Him everything is futile or vanity. Believers recognize that our relationship with EXAMINE: Distribute copies of Pack Item 11 Christ is what brings joy to our everyday lives. (Handout: “Vanity” and “Under the Sun” in Ecclesiastes). Direct the group to identify HIGHLIGHT: Stress the Key Doctrine how many times the phrase “under the (Stewardship) on page 80 of the PSG: sun” is included in verses 18-21. God is the source of all blessings, temporal and spiritual; all that we have and are we owe to DISCUSS: Why are people prone to focus Him (2 Cor. 9:8). solely on work and the amassing of material possessions in their lives without any regard for God? (PSG, p. 78) SUMMARIZE AND CLARIFY: Invite a volunteer to read CHALLENGE the paragraph beginning “After all his REVIEW: Call for a volunteer to read aloud investigation ...” on page 78 of the PSG. the Summary Statements under Apply the Text (PSG, p. 81). Invite the group to STATE: Solomon was obviously quite disturbed by the futileness of working only to consider contemplate living out these statements that it might be totally wasted in the future. as believers. Ask: What is one action that could be taken in light of each statement?

READ: Invite a volunteer to read ANALYZE: Lead the group to complete the Ecclesiastes 2:22-26, as the group listens first question set on page 81 of the PSG: as Solomon begins to find hope in the On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate midst of his despair. your dependence on God for your life’s purpose? What adjustments need to be ASK: How does your attitude toward work made to increase your dependence on Him? coincide with what Solomon taught? What Direct them to record their responses in joy have you found in your daily schedule? the margin of their copies of the PSG. COMPARE: Read aloud Colossians 3:23-24, STATE: Solomon’s words apply to our lives guiding the group to compare these verses today as we look for meaning in our lives. to Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes. The wise person seeks to find meaning in COMPARE: Direct attention to Pack Item 4 life from God and to exhibit joy in his or her (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?), indicating everyday life. that Solomon examined each of these as PRAY: Conclude the group time with he pursued the meaning of life. Note that prayer, thanking the Lord for His provision we will continue examining these pursuits each day. Pray that God would focus and discussing how we find joy in the midst everyone on Himself rather than on of what can feel like “a striving after wind” amassing material possessions. (Eccl. 1:17).

MUSIC INTERVIEW Lead the group to sing or listen to “In Prior to the session develop three to five Christ Alone,” by Keith Getty and Stuart questions that someone might ask of Townend. Lead the group to discuss how Solomon based on Ecclesiastes 1:1–2:26. Christ provides hope in a mundane world. Either enlist one person to respond to the Emphasize that Ecclesiastes 2:24-26 reveals questions as Solomon or ask someone to be that enjoyment in life can’t be found apart the interviewer while the leader responds from God. to the questions.

PHYSICAL RESEARCH Prior to the study create four posters, Call attention to the Bible Skill on page 76 each with one of the following words or of the PSG and distribute Bible dictionaries phrases from songs: “Is There Life Out to volunteers. Call for them to read the There?,” “Breakaway,” “I Can’t Get No entry about “vain,” “vanity,” or “futility” Satisfaction,” and “Dust in the Wind.” in a Bible dictionary and read some of the Post each poster in a different area of the Bible verses included in the dictionary. As room. To begin the session, guide the a group, discuss the following: How does individuals to move to the poster that the way vain or vanity is used outside of best describes their feelings about life as Ecclesiastes give you deeper insight into they are currently experiencing it or have the emotions expressed by Solomon? What experienced it in the past. Allow time for modern words might you use to convey each group to share either with the whole what Solomon meant when he used the group or with a partner why they selected a word translated as vanity or futility? particular poster.

CASE STUDY Guide the group to develop a list of attitudes and actions that people exhibit in their work worlds. Divide the group into teams of three or four people. Direct each team to develop a case study based on ways people handle their work. After the case studies have been shared with the group, discuss how the various scenarios reflect work as God’s gift. Discuss changes that might need to be addressed in each situation to more fully illustrate Ecclesiastes 2:24-26 and Colossians 3:23.

ECCLESIASTES 3:1-15 MEMORY VERSE: ECCLESIASTES 3:11

STUDY Ecclesiastes 3:1-15, focusing on how Prepare to Display: the verses poetically describe time and what Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) characteristics of God are revealed. Consult a Pack Item 3 (Map: Solomon’s Building Projects) Bible dictionary or commentary to clarify the meaning of any of the opposites presented. Pack Item 4 (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?) Make Copies of: CREATE a teaching plan for your group using Pack Item 9 (Handout: Memory the ideas on pages 100–102. Consider the Verses Bookmark) seasons of life representative of your group and how this study might intersect with their lives. CONSULT QuickSource for additional questions to use during the group time and review GATHER the following items: the Explore the Bible Adult Commentary for Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs) additional biblical insights (available for Chart paper and markers or white purchase from LifeWay.com). board markers REINFORCE the study by evaluating your own use of time to determine adjustments that you might need to make to be a better steward of your time. Share your findings with the group to encourage them to do the same evaluation.

Date of My Bible Study:______93 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE Time is one of the most valuable commodities we have. Once it is gone, Stewardship we can never get it back. It seems like something is always vying for our Believers are under obligation time. Additionally, constantly being busy has become a status symbol, and to serve God with their time, we may fear being looked down upon for failing to keep ourselves busy. talents, and material possessions Consequently, many view time as a taskmaster. However, Ecclesiastes 3 and should recognize all these reveals that time is a gift from God. Instead of being slaves to time, time as entrusted to them to use for is meant to give us the freedom to enjoy God and glorify Him in the the glory of God and for helping opportunities He gives us as we move from one season of life to the next. others (John 9:4). (In PSG, p . 82) Would you rather have a greater quality of time or quantity of time? Explain.

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL ECCLESIASTES 3:1–4:6 Use a Bible or theological dictionary. Ecclesiastes 3 contains one of the most famous poems in the Bible. In this poem, Solomon outlined the truth that there is a time for everything, Review articles about eternity in including a time for birth and a time for death (3:2). Knowing that God a Bible or theological dictionary. has ordered creation within seasons and proper times for everything, Examine Bible passages included the Teacher encourages the reader to search for God who exists beyond in the articles. Note the contrasts time and whose purposes are eternal. In fact, God has made this known between God being identified as by establishing eternity in the hearts of all men and women. If all things eternal and humanity as being “under the sun” are vanity and futile, then humans should seek refuge in created but looking toward God and properly enjoy the good gifts of life that He has granted all people. eternity. How does this contrast Chapter 4 provides a powerful reminder to those who might view the impact your understanding of pursuit of the good things in life as an end in itself. All people are bent Ecclesiastes 3:11? toward a sinful desire to make good things the ultimate things. Solomon urged people to open themselves to the momentary gifts that God grants. He warned that some would be motivated by envy and greed. He argued, “two are better than one” (4:9). The point being, people can work together to accomplish more and can take care of one another in times of need. To work selfishly to gain all the pleasures of the world rather than properly enjoying them as God intended is vanity. The reality of divine justice and worldly injustice serves as a fence to curb the sinful propensities of people to reach for more than they are granted. Rather than becoming bitter because of what God has not granted, one should enjoy the gifts God has given. Some people are given more than others, and that is a choice of God. Some suffer more than others, and that is a choice of God. One might be tempted to equate gifts and suffering

94 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources with righteousness and wickedness (remember Job’s friends?), but there is a warning in this line of thinking. Human justice is not always complete and lacks the perspective of God. According to Solomon, God will be the One to reward the righteous as well as punish the guilty.

EXPLORE THE TEXT

TIME AND PLACE (ECCL . 3:1-8) Verse 1 VERSE 1 Solomon began his exploration of time with the observation that for 1 For everything there everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. With this, the Teacher summarized the completeness of life. He utilized is a season, and a time a specific structure in this poem that is outlined in pairs, ideas that for every matter under communicate the completeness of his reflections. Solomon listed a series of heaven: opposites, pointing out that each has a time and place in life.

Verses 2-4 First, there is a time to be born, and a time to die. We are born and we VERSES 2-4 die; both of these times are out of our control. Birth and death are times ordained by God. He has numbered our days. 2 a time to be born, and Second, there is a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is a time to die; a time planted. Plants grow, and they die. For the most part, these things are out of our control. For example, we cannot plant flowers in the dead cold of to plant, and a time to winter, so this activity is dependent on the appropriate seasons, which are pluck up what is planted; ordained by God. 3 a time to kill, and a Third, there isa time to kill, and a time to heal. In times of self-defense time to heal; a time to or national defense, we react to things that threaten us. Again, these are things that we do not necessarily control. We also heal in response to break down, and a time being injured. to build up; 4 a time Fourth, there is a time to break down, and a time to build up. We tear to weep, and a time to down, and we build because the materials we use are not eternal. These things have their time and wear out, break down, and decompose—all part laugh; a time to mourn, of God’s creation order. and a time to dance; Fifth, there is a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance. These two are appropriate responses to specifictimes in life, times that we react to and do not necessarily control when they come.

Verses 5-8 Sixth, there is a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together. Bible teachers debate the meaning of this pair. If taken literally, it is probably a reference to clearing a field and removing stones for plowing and planting. The idea of gathering stones would be for the purpose of building walls around the field or the walls of a house. This pair may also indicate a season of war. In the ancient world, one method of warfare was

Session 9 : What Time Is It? 95 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources to render farm fields useless by covering them in the countless stones around Palestine. When Israel was at war with Moab in 2 Kings 3, they were instructed to ruin every piece of good land with stones until it was covered. Other scholars, however, understand these expressions euphemistically from an ancient Jewish interpretation, interpreting “to cast away stones” as sexual union and “to gather stones” as sexual abstinence (Lev. 18:19). Seventh, there is a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing. This may relate to the interpretation above that views the first VERSES 5-8 pair of verse 5 as a reference to sexual union and sexual abstinence, 5 a time to cast away indicating that there was a time for a married couple to embrace and a time for them to avoid embracing, since anyone who touched a woman stones, and a time to during her menstrual cycle was deemed unclean according to Old gather stones together; Testament law (Lev. 15:19-33). a time to embrace, and Eighth, there is a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away. It was a custom to tear one’s clothing in times of sorrow a time to refrain from and grief—clothing that would need to be sewn when the time was right. 6 embracing; a time In difficult times, it is often hardto speak. After time, we are able to talk to seek, and a time to about things reflectively. lose; a time to keep, It is important to note that the Teacher began this poem with the bookends of birth and death. He then summarized the time between and a time to cast away; birth and death in the last two lines of the poem as a time to love, and a 7 a time to tear, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. Much like the cycles of time to sew; a time to nature in chapter 1, in the rhythm of our lives between birth and death, we experience the panorama of seasons involving different emotions, keep silence, and a time experiences, and events. We know they are coming, but we do not know 8 to speak; a time to love, when these seasons will come. and a time to hate; a There is a sense in which we have little say in the seasons of life we time for war, and a time face, so how we face them is important. Generally speaking, we have two responses to the seasons of life. First, we can view our time as oppressive. for peace. That is, we have no control, and we fear what will come next. So we pull away and become bitter. Second, we view time as an opportunity. That is, an opportunity to trust that God is in control and to know that all things are working toward our sanctification, depending on how we respond. We can fall into His arms and become an instrument for good. If we view the experiences of our lives as oppressive, we will take the stance of a helpless victim and become bitter toward God. But if we view our experiences in this life as opportunities to bring God glory in how we respond to and act, in time it changes everything. According to Romans 8:28-29, we could argue that God uses all things in our time to work together for our good, namely, to conform us to the image of His Son. Every season of life is designed to be used by God—whether it is learning patience and faith in the times of suffering or learning joy in the times of laughter. Paul encouraged us in Ephesians 5:15-17 to make the best use of our time by understanding what the Lord’s will is. God intends for us to redeem our time for His purposes. Believers must use time as God made it to be used: doing the right things at the right time.

96 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources How does understanding that God ordains different times in our lives for His purposes help us respond to those circumstances better?

ENJOY LIFE (ECCL . 3:9-13) Verses 9-11 Up until this point, the Teacher has said nothing about the “how” and VERSES 9-11 “why” of time. He has merely offered a reflection on what is. But then he set his mind on who establishes these times and why the times are set the 9 What gain has the way they are. worker from his toil? It is God in His sovereignty who has set the times. He has made 10 everything beautiful in its time. God has also put eternity into the I have seen the heart of mankind. In other words, in every situation we are called to look business that God has beyond the here and now—through the trajectory of eternity. There is a given to the children divine, eternal, design for our lives. Moreover, most of the time we cannot of man to be busy fully understand God’s design from the beginning to the end from our 11 limited perspective. with. He has made You can illustrate it this way: kids often enjoy playing with building everything beautiful in blocks. These blocks often come with sets specifically designed to build a its time. Also, he has certain pre-designed product, a product that is displayed on the box and in the instructions. As the box is opened, all the child has is a pile of blocks. At put eternity into man’s the same time, the instructions show what the end product will look like. heart, yet so that he In order to achieve this end, one must follow the designer’s instructions. cannot find out what The difference between real life and building blocks is that we are not the God has done from the ones with the blueprint laid out before us; God is. We have the individual pieces in our hands. We have a general idea of what the finished product is beginning to the end. going to look like but not in its fullness. There are seasons in our lives that will shape how we become what we become, and most of that is out of our hands; it is in God’s. This is why Solomon said that he cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. We don’t need to understand the seasons of life to live faithfully. This is difficult because it means at least two things. First, God’s sovereignty over time makes us aware of our helplessness; we cannot control our lives. Second, God’s sovereignty over time makes us aware of our dependence on Him. We do not know what will come or when it will come. Therefore, in light of our helplessness and our dependence, our only response is to stand in awe of God and live according to the directions He has given us for a life of faith. When we consider the set times of God that He has ordained for life, we are humbled to see the hand of God over all of our time. We are dependent on Him. He has authority; we are subject to Him. He controls the times; we are subjects who respond in time.

Session 9 : What Time Is It? 97 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Verses 12-13 VERSES 12-13 Because God has placed eternity in our hearts, we realize that life under the sun is not all there is. Since God remains in control of time, believers 12 I perceived that there can enjoy the time God grants them on earth, knowing that eternity is nothing better for awaits them. Time is a gift, and believers should make the most of the time granted to them by God. Here Solomon answered the question that was them than to be joyful asked in verse 9, namely, what does a worker gain from his toil? In verse 12, and to do good as long Solomon stated: I perceived that there is nothing better for them than to as they live; 13 also that be joyful and to do good as long as they live. No person can understand the times that God has set, let alone control everyone should eat and them. If one cannot fully understand the time that God has set, if we drink and take pleasure are ultimately dependent on God and not in control, then isn’t it best to in all his toil—this is enjoy the present for what it is? Therefore, the Teacher urges his readers to God’s gift to man. consider the hand of God in the world around them. God has given us a sense of past and future, and food, drink, and enjoyment in our toil. We are to view life—the good and the bad—as a gift from God.

What are a few intentional and practical ways that you can enjoy the times that God has given you as a gift in this temporary life?

GOD WORKS (ECCL . 3:14-15) Verses 14-15 VERSES 14-15 There was a Scottish minister by the name of Alexander Whyte who was known for his uplifting prayers in the pulpit. He always found something 14 I perceived that for which to be grateful. One Sunday morning the weather was so dark whatever God does and gloomy that one church member thought to himself, “Certainly the preacher won’t think of anything for which to thank the Lord on a wretched endures forever; nothing day like this.” Much to his surprise, however, Whyte began by praying: “We can be added to it, nor thank Thee, O God, that it is not always like this.” This is a perspective on anything taken from it. life that is rooted in the goodness of God and the good gifts He has given us to enjoy in this life. In spite of our current situation, there is a sense in God has done it, so that which we know there is nothing better for us than to rejoice and enjoy the people fear before him. good life. 15 That which is, already The truth is, God is personally involved in the everyday affairs of His has been; that which is creation—in sustaining all things and working all things toward His perfect goals. In that security, we can enjoy life as a gift as we eat, drink, to be, already has been; and labor (v. 13). As strange as it may seem, this is a call to actively pursue and God seeks what has good things in life. In a sense, these verses are all about perspective. been driven away. Though life can sometimes feel like a dark and gloomy day, God has given us good things that break through the clouds like the morning sun. There are still rainbows in our fallen world. They are often the simple things,

98 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources the things we take for granted. How we view time affects how we live our lives. In God’s providence, our joy is offered in the time of the lives that we have. Even though humanity is the grammatical subject of this section of Ecclesiastes, the Teacher made it clear that God is the One who determines. God is the primary Actor in the natural world, and we are dependent on Him. The clock of time is powered by the providence of our sovereign God. We make real, responsible decisions every day, but in reality we know that the seasons of life are almost completely out of our hands. In this, we learn to accept that we have very limited access to the big picture. Perhaps God intends us to be like children who trust their father to know what’s best because we cannot see what He sees, and we cannot know what He knows. The question is, do we trust God? Our lives are full of broken characters, unexpected joys, jarring interruptions, unexplained contradictions, unanswered questions, and unfinished chapters. We will not always be in the seasons we are in, but they are being used by God to prepare us for the seasons that we have yet to experience. It is only God who knows exactly where everything is meant to go, in which order, at what time, and why. In this sense, Solomon reminded his readers that God is not bound by time. In contrast to the futile accomplishments of humans, everything God does endures. What God has done may not be improved upon or diminished. So what is God’s ultimate purpose for the occasions and seasons in our lives? It is so that we fear before him. It is to have what the Bible often calls the fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord is a deep-seated reverence and awe for God that causes men to want to please Him at all costs.

Make a list of the good gifts that God has given you in this life (family, friends, resources). Spend some time thanking God for these things as a way to refocus your heart on thankfulness.

FOCUS ATTENTION READ: Invite a volunteer to read Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, as the group listens for INTRODUCE: Prior to the group time, the opposites presented in the verses. write the following words on a white board or chart paper: sudden death, extra HIGHLIGHT: Verse 1 reveals that God has innings, yellow flag, overtime, rain delay, and a time for everything and He is in control. clock management. Call for the group to determine what all of these words have LIST: Guide the group to list on a white in common. board or chart paper the opposites found in verses 2-8. Read aloud Psalm 139:16 and EXPLAIN: All of these words relate to the Psalm 31:15, clarifying that God’s timing is concept of time. In every sport there are specific perfect in all seasons of our lives. guidelines for time. In basketball and football, clock management directly impacts the game. IDENTIFY: Guide the group to identify the Coaches try to save their time outs so they can season of life representative of most of maximize the final few seconds. A yellow flag in the group. auto racing slows the speed of the race. DISCUSS: Do you find understanding the ASK: Would you rather have a greater seasons of life comforting or worrisome? quality of time or quantity of time? What challenges must a person overcome Explain. (PSG, p. 82) if he or she is to embrace all of life’s seasons and situations? (PSG, p. 84) TRANSITION: As we study Ecclesiastes 3 today, we will see how time is a gift from God MINI-LECTURE: Briefly address some of and begin to understand that wise people the opposites that people might find the maximize their time, recognizing that God is in most confusing, for example the throwing control of life. and gathering of stones. Direct attention to the pair in verse 6: “a time to seek, and a time to lose.” Remind the group of the EXPLORE THE TEXT parable of the lost sheep that pictures Christ coming to seek and to save the lost. REVIEW: Remind the group that in the There will come a time when the window previous study we identified Ecclesiastes of opportunity to accept Christ as Lord 1:3 as the central question. The Teacher has closed. (Solomon) asked, “What does man gain by all the toil at which he toils under the ASK: How should recognizing that there sun?” Directing attention to Pack Item 2 are complementary seasons of opportunity (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes), highlight that open and close in life impact how one that Ecclesiastes 3 focuses on time and lives? (PSG, p. 86) the seasons of life. Utilize Understand the Context (p. 83) to set the stage that people have a limited amount of time, but each season of life is a gift.

100 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources HIGHLIGHT: Call attention to the large DISCUSS: Call attention to Pack Item 3 quote on page 85 of the PSG: The sooner we (Map: Solomon’s Building Projects) and the come to grips with mortality, the more we are topics Solomon discussed throughout the able to recognize the preciousness of life. Invite Book of Ecclesiastes, noted on Pack Item 4 volunteers to respond to this statement. (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?). Then ask: Consider Solomon’s experiences with READ: Direct a volunteer to read pleasure, wisdom, wealth, and power. How Ecclesiastes 3:9-13, as the group pictures does recognizing that God is at work in the the characteristics of God described in time granted and situations faced give a these verses. person hope and comfort? (PSG, p. 89) PARAPHRASE: Direct the group to form TRANSITION: God is enduring, complete, and pairs and share the characteristics of God just, and we are called to stand in awe of His they identified and then work together to mighty works. Ecclesiastes 3 reminds us that paraphrase verse 11. Call for volunteers to God is in control in all aspects of our lives and share their paraphrases. encourages us to keep an eternal perspective as SHARE: Distribute copies of Pack Item 9 we face different seasons of life. (Handout: Memory Verses Bookmark) to those who need one, encouraging each person SUMMARIZE AND to memorize Ecclesiastes 3:11 over the coming week. CHALLENGE REVIEW: Call on someone to read the STUDY: Help explain these verses using the paragraphs under Verses 9-11 on page Key Doctrine (Stewardship) on page 89 of 87 of the PSG. Note that because we can’t the PSG. Lead in a discussion of how the grasp eternity, we must depend on God’s group has seen time, talents, and material guidance for how to spend our time. possessions used for God’s glory. Ask: How has your understanding of stewardship ASK: How does having a healthy sense changed as a result of today’s study? of one’s mortality help one be a faithful EVALUATE: Lead the group to complete steward of one’s time? (PSG, p. 87) What the first question set under Apply the Text are some practical ways of seeing good in (PSG, p. 90): List activities and actions you the work and investments of time we make have been putting off or avoiding. How can in this life? (PSG, p. 88) you embrace the items listed, looking for God’s work in each? READ: Invite a volunteer to read aloud Ecclesiastes 3:14-15, as the group listens PRAY: Close in prayer, asking the Lord to for additional characteristics of God. lead each of us to make honoring Him with our time a priority. GUIDE: Lead the group to discuss how Solomon’s words reveal his understanding of God. Emphasize that a wise person is a good steward of his or her time.

MUSIC NATURE/PRESENTATION Secure a copy of “Without Him,” by Mylon Pre-enlist someone to research the R. LeFevre, available in the Baptist Hymnal. agrarian society of Solomon’s time and Pre-enlist two volunteers. Close the study how the seasons of life closely follow the by directing each volunteer to read an agricultural growth cycle. Allow time for assigned verse of the song. Lead the group the group to ask about the information in singing the chorus. presented. Point out that Ecclesiastes 3:2 states specifically that there is a“ time CREATIVE WRITING to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted.” Discuss how this cycle might be Gather pencils and paper. lived out in our lives. After examining Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, divide the group into teams, providing each team MINI-LECTURE with pencils and paper. Instruct each team Pre-enlist a volunteer to complete the Bible to develop their own poem of opposites Skill activity on page 88 of the PSG and related to time. Indicate that they can be prepare a mini-lecture on eternity. Call for serious or humorous. Examples might the volunteer to present his or her findings include: a time to be dirty and a time to be to help the group better understand clean, or a time to diet and a time to feast. Ecclesiastes 3:11. Allow time for each team to share their contrasts with the group. VISUAL OBJECTS Gather paper and pencils. Gather objects that represent time, such as Provide paper and pencils for the group. a watch, a clock, a stopwatch, a timer, an Call attention to the three statements hourglass, a calendar, or birthday candles. under Apply the Text (PSG, p. 90). Instruct the group to select one of the statements Call attention to the display of objects. and sketch an illustration that depicts the Invite the group to identify how each statement they chose. Invite volunteers to object represents time. Ask if they ever feel share their sketches. like time is moving too slow or too fast. Direct everyone to stand. Using the timer or stopwatch say, “I will say go, and when you think the timer or stopwatch is getting close to one minute, please sit down.” Note that some of the group had a feel for one minute while others didn’t. Discuss whether anyone let someone else influence them to sit down. Note that Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes 3 picture the gift of time as limited and should be used to honor God.

ECCLESIASTES 4:13–5:7 MEMORY VERSE: ECCLESIASTES 5:1

STUDY Ecclesiastes 4:7–5:7, noting Solomon’s Prepare to Display: words on the importance of leaders heeding Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) warnings and making wise decisions. Highlight Pack Item 4 (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?) specific warnings regarding worship and Make Copies of: keeping vows before God. Pack Item 11 (Handout: “Vanity” and “Under CREATE a teaching plan for your group the Sun” in Ecclesiastes) using the ideas on pages 110–112. Reflect on mistakes you have made or warnings CONSULT the weekly Explore the Bible adult you have not heeded and how those choices podcast to gain insights on the go about this affected your relationship with God. Look for week’s study on Ministry Grid, Apple Podcasts, ways of restating the Key Doctrine (Scripture) Stitcher, Spotify, LifeWay’s Digital Pass, or at throughout the session: Scripture reveals the goExploreTheBible.com/adults-training. principles by which God judges us (Rom. 2:1-5). REINFORCE the study by encouraging the group

GATHER the following items: to take the next step in fulfilling the promises they identified during the session. Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs)

Chart paper and markers or white board markers

Date of My Bible Study:______103 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE One of the difficulties of parenting is trying to warn children not to make Scripture poor decisions. Parents are able to give these warnings because they learned Scripture reveals the principles by the hard way through the many mistakes they made along the way—many which God judges us (Rom. 2:1-5). mistakes that could have been avoided if they had listened to their own parents. Much pain and many heartaches can be avoided when one has a teachable spirit. In Ecclesiastes 4:13–5:7, the Teacher instructs the reader that it is wise to heed the warnings of past mistakes and the wise advice of godly counselors.

(In PSG, p . 91) What lessons from history do people rely on when living today? Why might a person ignore history and the lessons to be learned?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL ECCLESIASTES 4:13–5:7 Use a Bible dictionary to gain insight. Thus far, Solomon has encouraged the reader to enjoy God’s good gifts of Read articles about vows in a food, drink, and work. The warning has been to avoid making these good Bible dictionary. Review Bible things into ultimate things, because they do not last. Again, one of the truths that Solomon has made clear is that all things achieved or built by passages identified, looking humans will fade as vain and futile. Variations on the word vanity or futility for common themes. How are are used nearly forty times in the Book of Ecclesiastes. The repetition of this the themes connected to each word in the book as a whole, along with its definition, remind us that life is other? How are these common a vapor or breath. Life under the sun is fleeting and elusive. Therefore, the themes you identified seen in search for meaning and purpose in this life apart from God is also fleeting Ecclesiastes 4:13–5:7? and elusive, like chasing after the wind. We are not transcendent over time but live and die within the time that God has allotted us. The wise person understands this, and understands that God alone transcends time and history. In chapter 3, the Teacher exhorted the reader to fear God because of His sovereignty. Chapters 4–5 focus on God’s holy and righteous character that sets Him apart as transcendent. Unlike the kings of the earth whose thrones do not last, God is eternal and will rule forever. Therefore, living for the things of this fleeting life is a vain pursuit. Living a life of wisdom before God is the proper goal of every creature under the sun. God is to be approached with reverent awe or fear. The language of God being in heaven while we are on earth strikes at the very core of our humility. This truth reminds us that everything under the sun is finite and futile compared to God. There is no place for carelessness or vanity in the presence of God. Because all of life is lived before God, we should be humble

104 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources before Him in our worship, in our listening, and in our speaking. In this section of the book, the Teacher moved from abstract observations of life under the sun to concrete ways to live in wisdom. It teaches us that our primary focus in life should be on living a life that exemplifies the fear of God—living before Him with reverence and proper perspective.

EXPLORE THE TEXT

WHEN LEADING (ECCL . 4:13-16) Verses 13-16 The Teacher contrasted apoor but wise youth and an old and foolish king VERSES 13-16 to remind leaders of the value of continually listening to wise counsel. He pointed to the cycle often seen in leadership as a king ascends, loses 13 Better was a poor and touch with his kingdom’s changing needs, and eventually is discarded in wise youth than an old preference of a new leader who then repeats the cycle. In ancient Israel, the general consensus was that young people were and foolish king who foolish and old people were wise. What’s more, kings were supposed to no longer knew how to be guided by wisdom (Prov. 8:15). Here, Solomon used irony to teach the take advice. 14 For he wisdom of being teachable by stating that a poor and wise youth is better went from prison to the than an experienced king who has sat on the throne many years but is no longer willing to listen to wise counsel. In contrast to the much older throne, though in his king, this young male, possibly a teenager, was teachable and willing to pay own kingdom he had attention to the insightful advice of others. The older king’s refusal to listen been born poor. 15 I saw to wise counsel was foolish and shameful. The Teacher recognized that having a teachable spirit was necessary for all the living who move living a meaningful and successful life, and this means receiving instruction about under the sun, in community with those who are experienced and wise. Valuing and along with that youth receiving instruction from wise counselors is central to the Bible’s concept who was to stand in the of wise living. (See Prov. 4:13; 19:20.) In contrast, fools arrogantly despise 16 instruction and wisdom. (See Prov. 1:7; 5:12-13; 15:5.) king’s place. There was A life guided by human wisdom that reaches the pinnacle of human no end of all the people, achievement and is exalted by the adoration of many is vanity and a all of whom he led. Yet striving after wind. This is medicine that needs to be given in a world where men and women wear themselves out striving after empires of dirt. those who come later People live, die, and are forgotten. This is true of even the greatest leaders will not rejoice in him. and kings of history, as illustrated by one of them—Solomon of Israel. Surely this also is vanity This reminds us that it is never a lasting venture to build our own and a striving after wind. empires of dirt. In many cases, the leaders who strive to build their own empires close their ears to the wise counsel of others. Specifically, they close their ears to counsel that goes against their plans or warns them of folly in their endeavors. Of all people, Christian leaders must heed Solomon’s words and willingly listen to wise counsel when leading. The wisest counsel comes from the One who is greater than Solomon, namely, Jesus Christ. To those who seek to build their own empires of dirt, Jesus said to seek first His kingdom and righteousness. In a world where

Session 10 : Why Listen? 105 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources people despair in fear over living, dying, and being forgotten, Jesus comes to us with a promise: “I will never leave or forsake you.” There is wise counsel here for leaders, namely, to focus on what matters most. What matters most is the investment we make in the kingdom that will not end—not our kingdom but the kingdom of God.

Why is it important that we regularly assess our lives to see if we are building our own kingdoms or working to build the kingdom of God?

WHEN WORSHIPING (ECCL . 5:1-3) Verse 1 VERSE 1 Solomon challenged worshipers to approach God with a heart for obedience rather than with meaningless rituals. He further encouraged worshipers to 1 Guard your steps when listen more than they speak when in the presence of God. you go to the house of So many of Solomon’s ideas and observations are horizontally focused, musings on life “under the sun.” But on a few occasions he broke out of his God. To draw near to cynical syndrome, which he did here with reflections on authentic worship. listen is better than to The very word, worship, comes from the idea of ascribing worth to God. offer the sacrifice of Worship involves a holistic perspective on all of our lives. One of the things Solomon teaches us here is that God does not delight in religious ritual but fools, for they do not in repentant worship. know that they are doing First, we are taught to approach God in reverence—guard your steps evil. when you approach the sovereign God of the universe. The word guard is a warning that means “to be cautious” or “to be careful to do something.” It is the same word Moses used when he exhorted the Israelites to keep the law and keep the Sabbath (Deut. 4:40; 5:12). Here, guard your steps means to think carefully before taking action when you go to the house of God to worship. In approaching God for worship, consider the nature of worship and your purpose in going. How often is our approaching God a mere formality? Throughout the Old Testament, we see this was a serious issue. Isaiah 29:13 warns us of the woes of Israel: “this people draw near with their mouth and honor me with their lips, while their hearts are far from me.” If anyone thinks God could not care less about what is happening in his or her heart, they are sorely mistaken. Fools, according to the end of verse 1, do not know how to keep from doing evil. They do evil even when they approach the house of God.

Verses 2-3 Second, Solomon tells us to listen to God with reverence. When we approach God, our posture should be that of listening to what God has to say first. God is in heaven, and we are on earth. He is far above us, far superior to us. A shadow of this reality is shown when we meet someone of power. It is

106 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources customary when one meets royalty to be quick to listen. If you and I were to meet with our president, we would be told by a White House aid that we are not to speak until we are spoken to first. Our words are to be few because our first instinct in these situations is to be mindful, attentive, quick to listen, and slow to speak. This speaks to how we are to approach God, even in prayer. We don’t enter into the presence of God aimlessly running our mouths. It is no coincidence that Jesus, in Matthew 6:9, began the model prayer with these VERSES 2-3 words: “Our Father in heaven.” Before any petitions are made, there is an 2 Be not rash with your acknowledgment that God is in heaven. This brings our posture to patiently waiting in silence, in contrast to the fool who talks on and on. mouth, nor let your heart The fool is not mindful or attentive. He does not listen. The fool fills the be hasty to utter a word void with his words and posits his ideas and concerns before ever stopping before God, for God is in to think: maybe I should listen. Solomon illustrated this point in saying that heaven and you are on just as many concerns lead to anxious nights of fevered dreams, so too do many words reveal anxious foolishness. Many dreams accompany much earth. Therefore let your labor, because one exhausted with the cares of this life will, in his or her words be few. 3 For a exhaustion, lose touch with reality. This is a reminder to not lose touch dream comes with much with eternal reality. In order to hear God with reverence, you must first be attentive and listen. business, and a fool’s In some ways the fool’s voice reveals pride: “I know what’s best.” Or voice with many words. we could say that a fool’s talk reveals a deep insecurity: “I am afraid of what’s best.” We don’t like to be quiet, to stop and reflect—that may make us realize we are more dependent on God than we would like to think. It’s much easier to fill the void with our words. But a reflection on the nature of prayer teaches us that prayer is never the first word; it is always the second word. God has the first word—and the last word. The answer to our prayers is not so much focused on what we ask for, how we say it, or how many times we say it. Rather, it depends on God, who knows what is best for us. Therefore, we trust with humble hearts that He will answer, and we trust that how He answers is according to His will— believing that He knows best. Waiting in prayer is a disciplined refusal to speak before listening to the God who has spoken. The key to listening to God with reverence is placing yourself in a position to hear God, and He has spoken in His Word. Instead of being hasty to speak, let your words be few. It is important to have a gospel perspective in approaching God. In the Old Testament, people were required to bring sacrifices to God in the temple as a way of atoning for sin and as a way of entering into God’s presence. This is why the Teacher reminded us that God is in heaven and we are on earth. There is a holy distance between God and sinful man. With the coming of Jesus, our Mediator, that distance has been bridged. Does that mean that reverence is no longer needed? Certainly not. It was at a great cost—the death of Jesus Christ for the sins of man—that we are able to enter into God’s presence in full confidence, in humility, by the blood of His only Son. We can enter the presence of God with confident, assurance of faith. (See Heb. 10:19-22.) But we also enter the presence of God in reverent repentance. Our faith keeps us from despair and fear that we have

Session 10 : Why Listen? 107 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources no audience before God. Our repentance keeps us from pride, reminding us that our audience before God is a gift of grace through Christ. Without faith in Christ and repentance of sin, we approach God as fools, in useless ritual. When we approach God in Christ, it is deeply personal (new heart) and profoundly reverent (clean heart).

Why is our posture for worship and prayer important as we approach God? In what ways does the good news of the gospel impact our posture?

WHEN PROMISING (ECCL . 5:4-7) VERSES 4-7 Verses 4-7 4 When you vow a vow to Solomon’s last instruction in this passage is simple: do not harshly make a vow before God. Or, if you do make a vow, be hasty in fulfilling it. In fact, God, do not delay paying for this reason, it is better not to vow a vow at all, lest it lead you into sin. it, for he has no pleasure (See also Deut. 23:21-23.) in fools. Pay what you Verses 4-6 have as their background Moses’ teaching in Deuteronomy 23:21-23 concerning making a vow to God. A vow involved an oath to God vow. 5 It is better that promising to offer something to Him if He would act on behalf of the individual you should not vow than making the vow. Sometimes people make vows in the midst of great danger that you should vow and or need, but other times it is out of great desire. For instance, Hannah was not pay. 6 Let not your unable to have children. So she went to the tabernacle and vowed to God that if He gave her a son, she would “give him to the Lord all the days of his life.” In mouth lead you into sin, grateful response to the Lord granting her request, her husband offered a vow and do not say before offering on their behalf in gratitude for what God had done (1 Sam. 1:9-28). the messenger that it It is far better not to promise in the first place than to make a vow and not follow through. Do not let your mouth make a fool out of you; do not let was a mistake. Why your mouth make a sinner out of you. Don’t let your empty words drag you should God be angry at into judgment. God is not a cosmic vending machine; nor is God someone your voice and destroy to trifle with. the work of your hands? God never required anyone to make a vow to Him. Therefore, failing to 7 keep a voluntary vow to the Lord in His house was a serious offense and For when dreams equated to breaking the third commandment, which forbids the misuse increase and words grow of the Lord’s name (Ex. 20:7; see also Lev. 19:12). God’s final words in many, there is vanity; Leviticus warn of the costliness of breaking a vow (Lev. 27). The voluntary act of making a vow to God was the highest worship one could offer God. but God is the one you Voluntary expressions of worship are more a blessing to God than doing must fear. only what is required. For this reason, it is foolish to take what is a delight to the Lord and turn it into self-centered grandstanding before Him, acting as if one delights in God when in truth that person just seeks to advance himself or herself with grand promises.

108 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources There would be no need to double up on our words if we could be trusted as always truthful and faithful. This is why we often speak in vows. How many times have we said, “Honestly, I am telling the truth.” Or, “I swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth, so help me God.” Vows exist because we are by nature untruthful. This should cause us to be somewhat suspicious of ourselves and the deception that is deep within our own hearts. When we speak to God or when we speak to others, we should allow our simplicity to safeguard our sincerity with an unadorned yes or no. This truth is governed by a deep reverence of the God who hears all our words and who will ask us to give an account for every word on the last day. The wisdom literature of the Bible often teaches us that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. When we fear God, we revere Him and we stand in awe of Him. We come into His presence with reverence. We listen before we speak. And when we speak, we measure our words carefully. Now, perhaps you are reading this and are sitting under the weight of your sin. Christ’s payment for our sin included our less-than-worthy worship, our foolishness in not listening to God, and our unfulfilled vows. Christ took on the payment for those sins as well, to wash us clean before our holy God. It is only by grace that we can approach God, listen to God, and speak to God. The great payment of God’s only Son will also give us a deep reverent confidence, that in Christ, we can approach God, hear God, and speak to God through Jesus our Mediator. Reverence for God will cause us to draw near and listen, rather than to run our mouths like fools. Reverence for God will cause us to not delay in keeping our word. Wise believers carefully weigh the promises they make to God and others, knowing they will be expected to keep any promises made.

How do our words or keeping our word, affect our witness to others? Why are our words such an important aspect of our witness in the world?

FOCUS ATTENTION READ: Invite a volunteer to read Ecclesiastes 4:13-16, as the group listens INTRODUCE: As the group arrives, direct for how Solomon compared young and old them to share a moment from their in regard to a teachable spirit. childhood or as a parent or grandparent when they should have listened to their EXPAND: Read aloud Proverbs 16:31 and parents or wish their own children or Job 12:12. Explain that many times older grandchildren had heeded the warnings. people are considered wiser than younger, but Solomon indicated that a young person CONNECT: Solomon, as the Teacher in who is willing to listen is wiser than an old Ecclesiastes, indicated that the wise person king refusing to listen. heeds the warnings of past mistakes and accepts the wise counsel of godly counselors. DISCUSS: Create teams of three and direct each team to discuss the following ASK: What lessons from history do people question: What are the characteristics rely on when living today? Why might a of teachable people, and how does one person ignore history and the lessons to be develop a teachable spirit? (PSG, p. 94) learned? (PSG, p. 91) Direct teams to record their responses and TRANSITION: Today’s session from be prepared to share with the group. Allow Ecclesiastes shares the importance of listening time for sharing. to the warnings gained from past mistakes. REREAD: Direct the group to reread silently Ecclesiastes 4:15-16, looking for a cycle that EXPLORE THE TEXT appears in life. MINI-LECTURE: Remind the group that DRAW: On a white board or chart paper Ecclesiastes records Solomon’s reflections draw a circle. Around the circle write the on the meaning of life. It is evident that words anticipation, disappointment, and Solomon recognizes his own personal desire for change. failures and how he searched for meaning STATE: This cycle repeats itself over and over in the wrong places. Using Pack Item 2 and is characteristic of the human condition. (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) and Pack By human nature we seem to get tired and Item 4 (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?), critical of those in authority whether in our explain that Solomon resolved that home or job. pleasure, work, and wealth are all futile without God’s purposes. ASK: How is the cycle described by Solomon in this passage seen today? TRANSITION: In Ecclesiastes 4–5, Solomon (PSG, p. 94) shared that life only makes sense when one acknowledges God.

110 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources READ: Invite one volunteer to read REFERENCE: Lying to God has serious Ecclesiastes 5:1-3 and another volunteer consequences. Remind the group of Ananias to read 1 Samuel 15:22, encouraging and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11; their lies the group to listen for admonitions before God cost them their lives. concerning worship. TRANSITION: Religious rituals without fear of IDENTIFY: Lead the group to list the God and obedience are meaningless. admonitions about worship revealed in these verses. Call for volunteers to state Ecclesiastes 5:1 in their own words. SUMMARIZE AND Encourage the group to memorize the verse CHALLENGE and bring it to mind each time they join in REVIEW: Guide a discussion of the bulleted corporate worship. statements under Apply the Text (PSG, ASK: Why are worshipers prone to p. 99). Encourage the group to modify or approach God with meaningless add to the statements. rituals instead of hearts for obedience? ASK: List reasons why believers in times (PSG, p. 96) of corporate worship should prioritize HIGHLIGHT: Point to Pack Item 11 listening to God and how they may do (Handout: “Vanity” and “Under the Sun” in so. How can you give greater priority Ecclesiastes) to remind the group of all the to listening to God through worship? times that Solomon identified as vanity (PSG, p. 99) or futility. Ask: How can a heart that’s EVALUATE: Explain that from time to time, devoted to God provide meaning and everyone procrastinates on promises we’ve fulfillment to a person’s life? made—to spend more time in God’s Word, to volunteer time to a certain charity, or to READ: Direct a volunteer to read schedule coffee with a friend who needs to Ecclesiastes 5:4-7, as the group looks for hear about Christ’s love and forgiveness. specific words or phrases that reveal the Ask: What promises to God have you made importance of keeping promises or vows. that you have yet to fulfill? What keeps you from fulfilling that promise? What ASK: What does the expectation of keeping a vow made to God reveal about steps do you need to take to move closer to (PSG, p. 99) the true nature of worship? How does this fulfilling your promise? expectation relate to the character of God? PRAY: Close in prayer, asking God to help (PSG, p. 97) us heed warnings and learn from past mistakes as we follow Him in obedience. DISCUSS: Lead the group to explain why it is better to refrain from making a vow to Ask that He will not let us delay in God than to make a vow and fail to keep it. fulfilling our promises to Him and that we will honor Him in all of our worship.

MUSIC RESEARCH Secure a copy of the song, “With Lifted Pre-enlist someone to prepare a Hands,” by Ryan Stevenson and presentation on vows in the Bible. Direct Christopher Stevens. Familiarize yourself the volunteer to consult a Bible dictionary with the lyrics and utilize the verses and and/or commentary to support their chorus throughout the group time. Also study. Encourage the person to share a consider playing the song as the group basic definition of a vow and review key arrives. Bible passages looking for common themes related to vows or promises made to God. DEBATE Call for the volunteer to present his or her findings to the group (Bible Skill, Pre-enlist two volunteers to lead each side PSG, p. 95). of a debate. The topic of the debate will be whether age results in more wisdom than youth. Assign the volunteers to either VISUAL the pro or con side, instructing them that Gather paper and markers. they will be limited to two minutes to present their cases. If time permits, each Divide into teams of two, providing each side could have one minute for a rebuttal. pair with paper and markers. Direct each Follow the debate with an examination of team to construct a poster using either Ecclesiastes 4:13-16. words or pictures that would summarize Ecclesiastes 5:1-7. CASE STUDY REFLECTIVE Gather pencil and paper for each team. Lead a discussion of ways to prepare for As a group, construct a list of possible worship. First identify potential problems scenarios where believers fail to keep with preparing (short on time, parenting their promises to God (examples: tithing, distractions, health concerns, etc.). Then accepting a leadership position, spending guide the group to discuss practical ways more time in personal Bible study, or they can focus their hearts and minds on forgiving someone’s past offense). Create Jesus before entering a time of worship. teams, directing each team to select one Provide ideas for both corporate and scenario from the list and construct a case private worship. study using fictional names. Each case study should be two to three sentences in length and close with the question, “What steps would this person need to make in order to move closer to fulfilling his or her promise to God?” Allow time for each team to report.

ECCLESIASTES 7:11-22 MEMORY VERSE: ECCLESIASTES 7:20

STUDY Ecclesiastes 7:11-22, highlighting key Prepare to Display: words. Make a two-column chart noting the Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) extremes in these verses. Read Ecclesiastes Make Copies of: 7:20 in several translations and use a Pack Item 9 (Handout: Memory Bible concordance to discover similar New Verses Bookmark) Testament verses. Pack Item 12 (Handout: Wisdom Poetry) CREATE a teaching plan for your group using the ideas on pages 120–122. Focus on CONSULT the Explore the Bible website for encouraging the group to recognize that all ways of using a current news event to start and people are sinners, but through a relationship conclude the session (goExploreTheBible.com/ with Jesus Christ all people can be forgiven. LeaderExtras).

Look for opportunities throughout the session REINFORCE the study by praying specifically to emphasize that God uses imperfect people. for people in the group who are struggling with

GATHER the following items: guilt. Reflect on your own life, considering your priorities and how they impact your relationship Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs) with Christ. Chart paper and markers or white board markers

Date of My Bible Study:______113 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE We live on a fine line. If we think too lowly of ourselves, we see ourselves as Man being so broken we are not salvageable. If we think too highly of ourselves, By his free choice man sinned we see no need for God or His forgiveness. We need to find balance to being against God and brought sin into broken by sin and yet still created in the image of God. Fortunately, God the human race (Rom. 1:21-23). has not left us on our own to navigate our time “under the sun.” The wise person realizes God offers wisdom to the imperfect which gives us balance in this life and hope for the future.

(In PSG, p . 100) Why is acknowledging our sinfulness important for having a proper understanding of ourselves and our limits in this life?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL ECCLESIASTES 7:1–8:17 Use a Bible concordance to compare how a word is used. In Ecclesiastes 6:12 the Teacher asked: “For who knows what is good In Ecclesiastes 7:14,24,26-29, for man while he lives the few days of his vain life, which he passes like Solomon repeatedly used the a shadow?” He set out to answer this question in 7:1–8:17. This passage contains proverbs and practical wisdom for dealing with the ups and downs words “find” and “discover.” Look of life, and evocative depictions of both folly and wisdom. The person who up the Hebrew word matsa’ in a is wise is able to evaluate what the better things in life are. Bible concordance that includes One of the things Ecclesiastes 7 makes clear is that humans are an Hebrew words and examine Old enigma—hard to understand. In fact, Solomon was rarely able to make Testament passages that use the sense or fully understand the people he encountered. However, he was able word. How does the use of this to surmise that all humans are consumed with their own desires. Of all word in other passages help you the people on earth, one might assume that those in authority (like kings) gain a clearer understanding of possess more wisdom than others. Solomon revealed that all people are why Solomon would have used essentially the same. The only difference with kings is their ability to do the word in this passage? greater good or harm with the power they wield. In light of this futility, Solomon proclaimed that it is still possible to live a life of wisdom and do what is good. As for God, Solomon reminds us that He is often slow to punish the wicked. Yet we should not assume that His patience is a sign of injustice. This might be difficult to believe when the wicked seem to prosper and to live long and relatively comfortable lives. One’s hope must remain in God’s sovereign providence and His justice because in the end all humans return to dust. Therefore, we are not to place our trust in the things of this world, namely, in money, power, or our own ideals. If all humans are subject to the same fate (death), then we must learn to fear God and hope in Him rather than the transient things of this life. Who is wise? It is the person

114 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources who heeds Solomon’s counsel to fear God. As we have already seen, the fear of God is an attitude of submission to, respect for, and dependence on the Lord. The implication is that we must trust God rather than human resources, circumstances, or appearances. We do not always understand God’s ways, but wisdom teaches us to trust His will.

EXPLORE THE TEXT

ACCEPT IT (ECCL . 7:11-14) Verses 11-12 One of the recurring themes of Ecclesiastes is the idea that the fool lives VERSES 11-12 life as if what’s “under the sun” is all there is. In 7:7-10, Solomon dealt with what we might call escapist tendencies. First, he warned of the allure of 11 Wisdom is good with money (v. 7). No amount of money will deliver a person from the difficulties an inheritance, an of life. Positively, the Teacher exhorted readers to see difficult times as opportunities to grow in patience (v. 8). With the long view in mind, people advantage to those who are to guard themselves from explosions of anger, which is no way to escape see the sun. 12 For the difficulties (v. 9). Solomon also urged the reader to beware of nostalgia, protection of wisdom that is, wishing for things as they used to be, which is no way to deal with is like the protection the present (v. 10). To put it simply, the wise person is more measured and patient in spirit for the long haul. It is the height of wisdom to patiently of money, and the trust in God. This type of wisdom is more valuable than any earthly riches advantage of knowledge (v. 11) and provides protection that is greater than wealth (v. 12). is that wisdom preserves Verses 11-12 espouse the high value and desirability of wisdom. The first part of verse 11 states that gainingwisdom is good with an inheritance. the life of him who has it. They are similar in that both wisdom and an inheritance are passed on from one generation to another. Additionally, both have value. That which one inherits may have sentimental value or monetary value. In either case, an inheritance is meant to be a blessing to the one who receives it. Likewise, the one who receives wisdom is greatly blessed. The first clause of verse 12 provides the Teacher’s reasoning for saying wisdom is as good as an inheritance. It is because both wisdom and financial wealth provide protection. Therefore, it is safe to assume that Solomon had a significant monetary inheritance in mind in verse 11. The phrase the protection of wisdom literally is “the shade of wisdom” in Hebrew. The idea of protection derives from the picture of one’s being protected from the intensity of the sun’s rays in the heat of the day. We understand how financial wealth provides protection in a financial crisis, but how does wisdom offer protection? The wisdom that others pass down provides a tried and true way of maneuvering through life. The Book of Proverbs is an example of this. Think about the wisdom that those who fear the Lord inherit from Him. The security of this godly wisdom is even greater because it not only provides security in this life but also in the life to come.

Session 11 : Where Is the Balance? 115 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Verse 13 VERSE 13 Who can make straight what he has made crooked? This is a rhetorical question expecting the emphatic answer: “Nobody can.” There is some 13 Consider the work debate about the precise implications of verse 13. (See also 1:15.) The idea of God: who can make of something being crooked in this context may be understood in the sense of “inexplicable” rather than a more ethical meaning like “wicked” straight what he has or “corrupt.” In other words, there will always be times in life that remain made crooked? enigmatic because God has chosen not to reveal His purposes completely or not to provide the answers to all of our questions. Once again, this teaches us to trust God’s sovereign hand.

Verse 14 VERSE 14 Expounding on verse 13, the Teacher anticipated and answered the question his readers must have been asking: “If we are powerless to change the way God 14 In the day of has made things and what He does, then what can we do?” Solomon’s answer prosperity be joyful, and contains two imperatives given in two circumstances. In the first instance, when you are experiencing good times, rejoice and enjoy God’s blessings. in the day of adversity However, when you experience seasons of adversity, then you must consider. consider: God has made Certainly, some days will be more difficult than others. There will be the one as well as the days of prosperity and joy. These good times are from the hand of God. There will also be days of adversity. This too is from the hand of God. It other, so that man may does not matter if you are a new Christian or a seasoned theologian; this is not find out anything one of the most difficult truths of our existence. that will be after him. Solomon reminds us that we do not know if prosperity or adversity awaits us. But we do know the One who knows what is to come. There are times that bring us to our knees in joy over God’s blessing, and there are times that bring us to our knees in sorrow and remind us that our only hope is found in God. There is a certain grace in both of these situations, that in these times we are reminded of our utter dependence on Him. Therefore, as we look to the future we can be still and know that He is God. There are two common ways that people handle adversity. The first is denial, which is nothing more than an attempt to avoid or numb the pain of life. But this never works in the long run. The second way people tend to react to adversity is to try to conquer it. In this attempt, the idea is to rise above adversity, to man up, to push through as if it has no impact on us. But, if we are honest, this too never works in the long run.

Adversity can increase our dependency on God.

The teacher suggested a third way to deal with adversity. The third way is to embrace it, to accept it, to sit in it. Why? Adversity can increase our dependency on God. The two truths of this passage can be stated concisely as praise God in our prosperity and trust God in our adversity. In the end, believers can be sure that God’s plans for them are the best.

FIND BALANCE (ECCL . 7:15-18) Verses 15-18 Verse 18 is the hinge point of this paragraph. In this verse, Solomon argued VERSES 15-18 that wisdom and righteousness characterize the life of the one who fears God. However, the verses before may be some of the most complicated verses 15 In my vain life I in the book. In 7:15, the Teacher noticed that a righteous person’s life might have seen everything. end while he is living righteously. He also observed that a wicked person might experience an extended life in spite of his continual wickedness. The There is a righteous point the Teacher was making is that the length of a person’s life does not man who perishes in depend on his or her spirituality. The Teacher made this point by posing a his righteousness, and question to us: why do some upstanding people die way too young, while there is a wicked man some wicked people live long lives and die at a very old age? This becomes a more poignant question when one understands the ancient Hebrew context who prolongs his life in in which the Teacher was asking it. his evildoing. 16 Be not In Exodus 20:12 and Deuteronomy 5:33, we read that righteous living overly righteous, and (obedience to the word of God) prolongs a person’s life, while the opposite (disobedience and wicked living) shortens an individual’s life. What then do not make yourself do we do with this text in Ecclesiastes? The key is found in the words overly too wise. Why should righteous, and too wise in verse 16 and overly wicked and a fool in verse you destroy yourself? 17. Why would someone intentionally live overly wicked or foolish? It may be 17 Be not overly wicked, logical, if under the sun is all there is, to live anyway you want—if this is the only life you have with no expectation of meeting your Maker. In fact, this neither be a fool. Why is what often drives the most wicked people in the world. As Christians, we should you die before may not struggle with this as much. your time? 18 It is good What did the writer mean by overly righteous or too wise? In the Old Testament, a long life is paired with obedience to God’s commands. So it that you should take is quite possible that some people were going to excessive lengths to live hold of this, and from righteously in order to earn a long life. that withhold not your On the surface, this doesn’t seem so harmful. However, consider a hand, for the one who child who sees the reward of another for doing a good deed and follows suit to receive the same reward. The issue is not obedience but the motivation fears God shall come out behind it. The second child did not do a good deed out of love or concern from both of them. for another, he or she did it in order to benefit himself or herself. This may be what the Teacher meant by overly righteous and too wise. It describes the person who is obedient to God’s commands not out of love for God but to get something from God. This person thinks he or she can prolong life by engaging in some extreme forms of religious living. This person’s actions were for his or her own self-centered ends rather than loving, enjoying, and serving God for His sake. In this way, careful obedience to God’s law

Session 11 : Where Is the Balance? 117 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources may be exposed as a strategy to manipulate God. “I’ve done my duty; now I have my demands.” What this text reminds us of is that Christians not only need to repent of wickedness but also repent of the wrong reasons for doing what is right. This is why the fear of God is so important. If we fear God—have a reverent respect for His holiness and a deep horror at the depth of our own sin— we will abhor wickedness. We will also abhor self-centered righteousness because it reveals that we are acting as our own savior in order to demand things of God.

God is viewed as a vending machine to dispense one’s desires.

People can even avoid Jesus as Savior by keeping all the moral laws. The person motivated to do good from a heart of self-centered righteousness tends to think: God owes me answered prayers and a good life for all I’ve done. God is viewed as a vending machine to dispense one’s desires. However, the one who fears God avoids both extremes and lives a grace-balanced life. The one who fears God will be wise enough to know his or her own heart and to pursue righteousness for the right reasons—as a loving response to who God is. In the end, this settles our hearts when it comes to questions like why some upstanding people die too young, while some wicked people live long lives and die at a very old age. If our purpose is to love God in response to His grace, we obey without making demands. The questions raised by Ecclesiastes 7:15 end up being less important than doing good for the right reasons. Christians are called to live righteously—not to get what we want from God—but in response to what God has already given us, namely, grace we do not deserve. Solomon called for God’s people to live reasonable and balanced lives, avoiding the extremes of moral self-righteousness and foolishness. This emphasis reminds us that we should not view ourselves as being righteous apart from God.

Why is it important that we not only repent of our wickedness, but also repent of our self-righteousness?

118 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources ACKNOWLEDGE SIN (ECCL . 7:19-22) Verses 19-22 The Teacher surmised that wisdom found in the fear of God makes one VERSES 19-22 stronger than the collective wise counsel of ten rulers. This is significant given the great value the biblical sages gave to having many counselors. (See 19 Wisdom gives strength Prov. 11:14.) Our fear of God and our faith in Him and what He has done to the wise man more in Christ saves us. Rulers attempt to curb sin, but only the wisdom of God through Christ can cleanse us of our sin. than ten rulers who are Solomon and Paul were in agreement: “none is righteous, no, not one” in a city. 20 Surely there is (Rom. 3:10). Recognizing we are all sinners (Eccl. 7:20) should impact how not a righteous man on we understand ourselves and others. We must learn to deal with people earth who does good and as they are—as sinners like us. In verses 21-22, the Teacher provided an 21 example of what this looks like. He advised that we should not take too never sins. Do not take seriously everything people say because we are probably going to hear to heart all the things someone say something insulting about us: Do not take to heart all the that people say, lest things that people say. We ourselves have said unkind things about others too. Taking issue with those who speak wrongly of us serves to justly accuse you hear your servant us of our own culpability in relationship to others. cursing you. 22 Your The self-righteous (foolish) person takes counsel or criticism to heart heart knows that many because it is an attack on their worth and security. The humble (wise) times you yourself have person can accept counsel or criticism for what it is and implement what is useful and true in a constructive way because of his or her own admission cursed others. of the need for growth. It is interesting that Solomon’s example is of a servant doing the insulting. A person is much more likely to rebuke a subordinate than a superior. Nevertheless, it is wise to let it go. Just as we are sinners who have spoken unfair criticisms of others and are in need of God’s grace, so is everyone else. Since the perfect, holy, sinless God who is our Superior has shown mercy and grace to us who have willfully rebelled against Him and offended Him, then how can we refuse to show mercy and grace to others?

How does our awareness of our own sinfulness make us increasingly willing to offer forgiveness and extend grace to others?

FOCUS ATTENTION HIGHLIGHT: Read aloud Ecclesiastes 6:12, indicating that the question posed in RELATE: Secure a game that requires this verse is the foundation for the verses balancing of some type (examples: stepping that will be examined in more detail in stones, Jenga®). As the group arrives, allow Ecclesiastes 7. Explain that many scholars them to play the game. believe that Ecclesiastes was written later CONNECT: After most have arrived, state: in Solomon’s life. It appears that he was In our lives today, balance is required to be evaluating his own life and considering successful in so many areas, whether in regard how one should live in the face of his own to our health, finances, or time. We need to mortality. In Ecclesiastes 7:1-10, Solomon recognize that many people are watching us to said we are right to celebrate the birth of a see how balanced our lives are because of our child, but even more so we should celebrate relationships with Christ. a life lived for God. He proposed that accepting the wisdom that comes from God ASK: Why is acknowledging our is the key to life. sinfulness important for having a proper understanding of ourselves and our limits READ: Invite a volunteer to read in this life? (PSG, p. 100) Ecclesiastes 7:11-14, while the group TRANSITION: In today’s session, we will listens for how these verses are connected examine Solomon’s words as he reflected on the to balance in our lives. need for balance in life and how we should look ASK: How does God’s wisdom produce the to God for help. balance called for by Solomon? EXPLAIN: Verses 11-12 indicate that EXPLORE THE TEXT both wisdom and financial wealth provide CONTEXTUALIZE: Reference Pack Item 2 protection. Our world recognizes how wealth (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes). Distribute provides security but often fails to grasp how Pack Item 12 (Handout: Wisdom Poetry), wisdom provides a road map for dealing with allowing the group to scan the handout life’s ups and downs. The wisdom that comes for additional information on the wisdom from God also led to God’s provision of Jesus poetry in the Bible. Remind the group that Christ as presented in 1 Corinthians 1:24. this study is a continuation of Solomon’s DISCUSS: How does eternal life and reflections on the meaning of life. eternity being secured through faith in Jesus point to the wisdom of God? READ: Lead the group to reread Ecclesiastes 7:13-14 for further evidence of the need for balance.

120 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources HIGHLIGHT: Guide the group to identify PARAPHRASE: Reread Ecclesiastes 7:20, key words or phrases found in these verses. asking each person to consider how they Using those key words or phrases, highlight would paraphrase the verse in today’s that people who are wise will accept God’s language. Distribute Pack Item 9 (Handout: plan, recognizing that God’s sovereign plan Memory Verses Bookmark), sharing that will ultimately prevail. Ecclesiastes 7:20 is the memory verse for this session. ASK: Why might people find it so difficult at times to trust that God’s ways are TRANSITION: Solomon revealed that all always best? (PSG, p. 104) people are sinners and in need of God’s grace and wisdom. The wise person realizes that God READ: Invite a volunteer to read offers wisdom and life to the imperfect through Ecclesiastes 7:15-18, asking the group to a relationship with Jesus Christ. listen for extremes that are identified in these verses. Instruct another volunteer to SUMMARIZE AND read Lamentations 3:38, also noting the extremes mentioned. CHALLENGE LIST: Lead the group to identify areas GUIDE: Use the paragraph under Verses 16-18 on page 105 of the PSG to explain where people find it difficult to accept God’s the terms legalism and asceticism. plans, recording the responses on a white board or chart paper. ASK: How do the extremes in these verses REFLECT: Direct the group to review the relate to legalism and man’s temptation list and consider their own lives, reflecting to trust in his own righteousness and upon areas that might be out of balance. wisdom? What is the difference between Ask: What steps can you take to more fully being a religious fanatic and being trust Him in each area listed? (PSG, p. 108) completely devoted to God? (PSG, p. 106) DISCUSS: Guide the group to complete STATE: Solomon confirmed that true righteousness and wisdom comes to the one the third question set on PSG page 108: who fears God and honors Him daily. Discuss as a group why it is wise and good to always remember that all people, including ourselves, are sinners. How does READ: Invite someone to read aloud doing so bring honesty and perspective Ecclesiastes 7:19-22, as the group listens to the group as a whole? As a group, hold for a clear description of humanity’s one another accountable for memorizing inability to be perfect and sinless Ecclesiastes 7:20 this week. before God. PRAY: Close in prayer, asking the Lord to ANALYZE: How does being honest reveal things in our lives that are out of about our own sin open the door for us balance. Pray that as He opens our eyes to to gain perspective when dealing with areas that need to be addressed, that He other people? How does recognizing the will also guide us to align these things with tremendous mercy, grace, and forgiveness His purposes and plans. God has shown us empower us to be merciful, gracious, and forgiving to others? (PSG, p. 107)

MUSIC ART/VISUAL As the group is arriving, enlist a volunteer Gather paper, pencils, and markers. to play either on the piano or a recording of “It Is Well With My Soul,” by Horatio Distribute paper to each person, guiding Spafford and Philip Bliss. To begin the them to picture a tightrope walker high group time, share that Horatio Spafford in the air. Lead them to sketch the circus wrote “It is Well with My Soul” after performer. As a group, discuss distractions suffering multiple tragic events in his life: that might seriously affect the performer’s the death of a son, loss of investments due balance and lead to disaster. Examples to fire, and the loss of four daughters when might include a loud scream, a flashing their ship sank crossing the Atlantic Ocean. light, or a sneeze. Explain that in our lives While traveling on board a ship to join his we are looking for balance that comes from wife who had survived the sinking ship, he a focus on our relationship with Christ. penned the words to this famous hymn. Encourage the group to write or sketch Direct the group to reflect on the words on the paper around the tightrope walker of the hymn and what connections can distractions that individuals face today be made to Ecclesiastes 7:14. To close the that can skew their balance. Allow time for group time, ask each person to complete each person to share with a partner. the following: It is well with my soul because … and share their responses with COMPARE the group. Use Pack Item 12 (Handout: Wisdom Poetry) to identify other verses in the Bible WORD STUDY that are considered wisdom poetry. Assign Gather several Bible concordances. different passages to volunteers, directing them to read their verses and identify short Divide the group into teams, matching words of wisdom. After allowing them the number of concordances. Direct each time to read and reflect, call for volunteers team to complete the Bible Skill on page to share the wisdom they discovered in 104 of the PSG. Guide them to examine a short statement. Create a list of the how Solomon repeatedly used the words statements on the board. Compare the “find” and “discover” in Ecclesiastes list to Ecclesiastes 7:11-22. Encourage the 7:14,24,26-29. Using the concordances, group to reflect on ways their study can look up the Hebrew word matsa’ and note help them find balance throughout the Old Testament passages that use the coming week. word. Discuss how the use of this word in other passages helps you gain a clearer understanding of why Solomon would have used the word in these verses in Ecclesiastes.

ECCLESIASTES 9:1-10 MEMORY VERSE: ECCLESIASTES 9:10

STUDY Ecclesiastes 9:1-10, noting how people Prepare to Display: are to enjoy life despite the certainty of death. Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) Consider the similarities and differences Pack Item 4 (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?) Solomon shared regarding the righteous and Make Copies of: the unrighteous or wicked. List the areas of life highlighted for enjoyment in Ecclesiastes 9:7-10. Pack Item 8 (Handout: Ecclesiastes Time Line)

CREATE a teaching plan for your group using CONSULT QuickSource for additional questions the ideas on pages 130–132. Be prepared to to use during the group time and review the highlight that we have lived in a broken world Explore the Bible Adult Commentary for more since the fall of humanity recorded in Genesis, biblical insights (available for purchase from and thus all people are in need of forgiveness. LifeWay.com).

GATHER the following items: REINFORCE the study by evaluating the level of joy found in your group. Consider actions to take Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs) that might increase the group’s joy level.

Date of My Bible Study:______123 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE We do not know the number of days we have on this earth. But we are Marriage responsible for how we live those days and steward the resources we have Marriage is the uniting of one been given. There are times when we may suffer. There are times when we man and one woman in covenant will experience great blessings. These times are part of the ebb and flow of commitment for a lifetime life. No matter how long a person lives, he or she is going to die unless the (Heb. 13:4). Lord returns first. Ecclesiastes 9:1-10 addresses this reality and how people live in light of their mortality.

(In PSG, p . 109) What is on your bucket list? How does the potential of death add urgency to doing the things on your list?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL ECCLESIASTES 9:1–10:20 Use a Bible dictionary. In Ecclesiastes 9:1–10:20, Solomon continued his exploration of life “under the Read articles in a Bible dictionary sun.” Part of this reality includes the unpredictability of life and the certainty about Sheol. Note verses included of death. These truths are difficult to come to terms with. All humans long in the articles, reviewing selected for some sense of control; Solomon reminds us that no human can know with passages. How does Sheol certainty what each day will bring or when death will occur. This is part of differ from how most people being human. Only God holds these truths in His hands. These truths are understand “hell.” How does the hidden in the mystery of His will. Once again the Teacher confronted his use of the word in the passages audience with the limits of human power and knowledge (Eccl. 9:1-2). you examined give you a deeper Solomon made it clear that difficulties will come in each person’s understanding of the meaning life, regardless of whether that person is righteous or wicked. Trials are of the word? no respecters of persons. Sometimes the wicked live a relatively blessed life from an earthly perspective. Sometimes the righteous suffer in a way that boggles the human understanding (consider Job). Regardless of this uncertainty, the righteous person can live in assurance that his or her life is held in the hands of God. Moreover, life is itself an opportunity to enjoy the good gifts of God and live in a way that makes the best use of time. Living with an awareness of these truths is the personification of wisdom. Living without acknowledging these truths is foolishness. Therefore, pursuing a wise life has benefits in and of itself. The contrast between wisdom and foolishness is the theme of this section of the book. Wisdom is explored in 9:13,15-18; and 10:1-2,10,12. Folly is explored in 9:17; and 10:1-3,6,12-15. This section provides practical advice for living day-to-day life. Moreover, Solomon explained that the poor can possess wisdom while the privileged can exhibit folly. Therefore, one’s opportunities or resources do not guarantee wisdom or

124 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources foolishness. No one is doomed to foolishness or guaranteed wisdom. The way one lives life, regardless of the circumstances, demonstrates what category they fall into. For this reason, wisdom can achieve greatness VERSES 1-3 and surpass many earthly gifts. One could summarize this entire section 1 But all this I laid to with the idea that regardless of the life you are given, all people are destined to die and be judged. This truth alone can be a great motivation heart, examining it for wise choices in life. all, how the righteous and the wise and their deeds are in the hand of EXPLORE THE TEXT God. Whether it is love or hate, man does not SOBER TRUTH (ECCL . 9:1-3) know; both are before 2 Verses 1-3 him. It is the same for We have already seen, and we are reminded again, that both the righteous all, since the same event and the unrighteous have the same fate, death. According to Solomon, happens to the righteous there is one fate for everyone. Each of us is closer to the point of death than and the wicked, to the we were the day before. In verse 1, the Teacher referred to all that we have learned thus far with good and the evil, to the the phrase, all this. For Solomon, this was not just intellectual reflection; clean and the unclean, he was deeply involved in what he was about to share. First, he noted that to him who sacrifices the righteous and the wise are in the hand of God. To refer to all things and him who does not being in God’s hands reminds the reader of God’s absolute sovereignty over all things. Just like we read in Proverbs 21:1, even the hearts of kings sacrifice. As the good are in His hands. Therefore, the outcome of everyone’s life, including the one is, so is the sinner, righteous and wise, rests in God’s control. and he who swears is as God knows the big picture of what he who shuns an oath. 3 This is an evil in all we do not know. that is done under the The implications of this truth are vast. Essentially, God knows the big sun, that the same event picture of what we do not know. From a purely human perspective, no one happens to all. Also, the knows whether being in God’s hands means that blessing or judgment lies hearts of the children ahead. This is how we might read Solomon’s use of the words love and hate. This is one of the most intense and transparent passages we find in the of man are full of evil, entire book. There seems to be a deep struggle on the part of Solomon here. and madness is in their From his limited perspective, he could not see whether the future holds hearts while they live, love or hate from God. Moreover, we do not know why God allows and and after that they go to ordains certain things to happen in our lives. But one thing we do know is that death is certain for all people. the dead. While Solomon did not know whether love or hate was ahead, he did know that death was ahead for all. Regardless whether one is righteous or wicked, whether they will face love or hate, whether they are clean or unclean, whether they make sacrifices to God or not, whether they make vows or not, they cannot escape the certainty of death. Death is the fate of all regardless of one’s ethics or worship.

Session 12 : Facing Death? 125 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources In this sense, the Teacher despaired of death as an evil necessity, an enemy in the world. Death is necessary because, as Solomon said in 9:3, the hearts of men are evil. It was out of his own self-reflection that he agreed with Jeremiah that the human heart is desperately wicked and deceitful above all else (Jer. 17:9).

The first step in living wisely is knowing how to live in light of your coming death.

In the end, the point of this section is clear: all people will die regardless of their level of human righteousness or wickedness. Therefore, all people must prepare for death. However, understanding this reality can help one live life with wisdom. The first step in living wisely is knowing how to live in light of your coming death. Knowing that we will eventually die reminds us that we are not God. He has dominion over us, and ultimately we will answer to Him.

If you were to write your own obituary, what would you want to include? If you could hear the conversation at your own funeral, what would you hope to be said about you?

SEEK LIFE (ECCL . 9:4-6) Verse 4 VERSE 4 In the ancient Near East, a dog was not a pet but an unclean scavenger. Dogs were associated with contempt. Goliath expressed this connotation 4 But he who is joined when he asked David: “Am I a dog, that you come to me with sticks?” with all the living has (1 Sam. 17:43). Thelion on the other hand was admired as the king of the animal world. Lions were icons of royalty. For example, Jacob used the hope, for a living dog is metaphor of a lion to describe the coming Messiah (Gen. 49:9). Solomon better than a dead lion. concluded that a despised, contemptible dog that is alive is better off than a dead lion, even if the lion was the mightiest and most majestic of the entire animal kingdom. This is a stark way for Solomon to remind us that to be alive is to have opportunity that is not available to the dead. This is a point that he explored previously in Ecclesiastes 6:1-6, where he asserted that there is advantage in being alive rather than dead. One of the advantages is that you know you will die. Thus, you can live your life with this knowledge before you. Once you are dead, it is too late to direct the path of your life. Our days are fleeting; therefore, we must assess how to live well in order to die well.

126 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Verses 5-6 Solomon stated that when it comes to the dead, their love, and their VERSES 5-6 hatred, and their envy, is now perished. There is no longer a portion for them in all that is done under the sun. He asserted that in light of the 5 For the living know certainty of physical death, God’s people should realize the preciousness that they will die, but of life. While alive, there is hope of finding purpose and reward. There is wisdom in letting go of the things that embitter us in our days. the dead know nothing, Keep in mind that Solomon did not have a fully developed understanding and they have no more of the eternal fate that is explained in the New Testament. When Solomon reward, for the memory said “the same event happens to all” (v. 3), he was primarily concerned with of them is forgotten. physical death, not heaven or hell. 6 As Christians, we have a more fully developed understanding of the Their love and their rewards that await those who have their righteousness in Christ. Because hate and their envy have of this, we can live with hope and purpose, knowing that Christ defeated already perished, and death through His resurrection. This means that death does not have the last word. Even still, it reminds us that how we live before we die forever they have no matters to God. more share in all that is done under the sun. Do you struggle with any emotions or memories that you would like to move past or settle in your heart? How do these things affect your everyday life?

ENJOY (ECCL . 9:7-10) Verses 7-8 Several times already the Teacher has exhorted his readers to enjoy life. VERSES 7-8 (See 2:24-26; 3:12-13,22; 5:18-20; 8:15.) In verses 7-10, he elaborated again on why and how one should enjoy life. (And he will do it one more time 7 Go, eat your bread in 11:7-10.) Repetition was the common way ancient Near Eastern writers with joy, and drink your emphasized a point, and Solomon’s repeated message to enjoy life demands our attention. wine with a merry heart, In many ways, verse 7 is the heart of the message of Ecclesiastes. Go, eat for God has already your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, for God has approved what you do. already approved what you do. Have you ever wondered why the Gospel 8 Let your garments be writers included the saying, Jesus “came eating and drinking?” Breaking bread together is a sign of enjoying others in intimate fellowship. In ancient always white. Let not oil Israel, wine was a common item of fellowship. In some cultures it may be be lacking on your head. tea time or grabbing coffee with a friend. God has not only created us to need food and drink, but He has created a vast variety of food and drink for our enjoyment. In verse 8, Solomon continued to build on the idea of enjoying life with the words: Let your garments be always white. Let not oil be lacking on your head. In ancient times, when people were distraught, they wore

Session 12 : Facing Death? 127 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources sackcloth and ashes to demonstrate their grief. On the other hand, white clothes reflected the heat of the sun, and oil protected and nourished the skin. Likewise, oil symbolized joy. In our time, it would be like wearing bright and fun clothes and living life with a smile on your face. The Teacher was saying be clothed or covered in joy at all times and let your joy be apparent to others.

Verses 9-10 VERSES 9-10 In verse 9, Solomon instructed men to enjoy life with their wives, but the principle here applies to both married men and women to enjoy their 9 Enjoy life with the wife spouses until they die. Marriage is a blessing from God for the mutual whom you love, all the enjoyment of both partners, and couples can only enjoy it in this vain life because there will be no institution of marriage in heaven as we know it days of your vain life on earth. (See Matt. 22:30.) When a married couple loves and enjoys each that he has given you other as God intended, they will experience a wonderful blessing. under the sun, because Enjoying life also includes whatever your hand finds to do. This certainly pertains to one’s occupation but more generally speaks to whatever one is that is your portion in able to do. The Hebrew word translated whatever literally means “all” or life and in your toil at “everything.” The phrasedo it with your might means to give it everything which you toil under you have. We should give our very best effort to everything God allows us the sun. 10 Whatever to do. Why? Because when a person dies and goes to the place of the dead, Sheol, there will be no more opportunities this life on earth affords. your hand finds to do, do it with your might, There is the fleshly tendency to dive for there is no work or headlong into good things and to thought or knowledge make them ultimate things. or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going. Solomon was exhorting his readers to enjoy the things of the world properly to the glory of God. Within the Christian tradition there has been a tendency to equate true spirituality with shunning the good things of creation rather than enjoying them. Those who shun the good things of creation deny their God-given purpose and may fall into self-righteous legalism. On the other hand, there is the fleshly tendency to dive headlong into good things and to make them ultimate things. Those who abandon themselves to food and drink do so because they assume this is all there is before they die. This is outright self-indulgence. In both cases, these approaches are unbalanced. When we look to ourselves or created things rather than the Creator to find ultimate satisfaction, we become chained to a path that only leads to despair and destruction. These two approaches are common because sin fractures and distorts everything. When it comes to God’s good gifts, we must remember that sin does not un-create everything. Because good things are God’s creation, we cannot reject them as evil. Because we are God’s people, we must not use God’s good gifts in evil ways. God gives us good gifts to show us His favor. But because those good gifts do not ultimately satisfy our hearts, they are

128 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources simply tools that make us aware of His goodness and make us homesick for heaven—where unstained joys await us for eternity. We may pass through this world and enjoy all that it has to offer if we remember that the final delight of being with God will totally overwhelm whatever joys and delights this world offers. Verse 11 says literally, “time and happenings happen to all.” Situations arise, circumstances change, unforeseen events occur. This is why the Teacher encouraged his readers to put their faith in something that is not under the sun, because unforeseen things happen, and these things might change our best-laid out plans. As in 9:12, we do not know our time. This is not unlike the words of James 4:13-15, “Come now, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go into such and such a town and spend a year there and trade and make a profit’—yet you do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes. Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we will live and do this or that.’ Understanding this principle is key to a life well lived. If we do not know when we will die, then we must live now while we can. If we have a chance to do something for the glory of God, then let us do it now because we do not know what the future will bring. Believers should not worry their way through life—but enjoy it. We cannot waste away our days with meaningless pursuits—grudges, arguments, frustrations, anger, worries, or any other thing that would distract us from ultimate things. Life is too short. Because life is short, let us use and enjoy the days God gives us to the fullest, making the most of our lives for Christ’s glory.

(In PSG, p . 116) How does enjoying the blessings of life honor God?

FOCUS ATTENTION HIGHLIGHT: Note from the PSG (p. 110): No matter how much people want to know the INTRODUCE: Countless songs, books, and future and control it, they are unable to know movies have been written about living what God is going to do in the future, because in the moment and making the most of nobody can control God. This is part of being our time on earth. Perhaps one of the human, and once again the Teacher confronted most common approaches to this reality his audience with the limits of human power is creating a bucket list—items a person and knowledge (Eccl. 9:1-2). wants to do, see, or accomplish prior to “kicking the bucket.” TRANSITION: Humans may have finite knowledge about the future, but believers ASK: What is on your bucket list? How can trust that God, in His sovereignty, rules does the potential of death add urgency to and works according to His perfect and doing the things on your list? (PSG, p. 109) eternal purposes. TRANSITION: In today’s study in Ecclesiastes, we will see the Teacher (Solomon) reflecting on READ: Direct a volunteer to read aloud death’s certainty for all people, so he addressed Ecclesiastes 9:1-3, guiding the group the question of how the wise person responds in to listen for Solomon’s words that reveal the days he or she is granted. his understanding that God is in control of everything. Read aloud Isaiah 45:5-6, while the group reflects on how they might EXPLORE THE TEXT describe God’s sovereignty. REVIEW: Use Pack Item 2 (Outlines RELATE: Solomon noted that all people have of Job and Ecclesiastes) or page 9 of the evil in their hearts and must prepare for death. PSG to review the main ideas found in Ecclesiastes. Distribute Pack Item 8 ASK: Why are people, unbelievers and (Handout: Ecclesiastes Time Line), noting the believers alike, reluctant to think about progression through Ecclesiastes. their mortality and what they should do to properly prepare for death? MINI-LECTURE: Briefly confirm the (PSG, p. 112) How does the reality that all following points that have been previously people are sinful strengthen the Teacher’s established in the study of Ecclesiastes argument that all die? and will be reinforced in today’s study: (1) God decides what is best for believers COMPARE: Invite a volunteer to read throughout their lives; (2) Nobody can Romans 5:12-19 and lead the group to control God; and (3) For both believers compare the hope through Christ for and non-believers, there is constant all believers as opposed to those who uncertainty. reject Christ. DISCUSS: Guide the group to discuss how hope in Christ makes a person grateful for each day of life.

130 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources READ: Read aloud Ecclesiastes 9:4-6, TRANSITION: Believers recognize life as a gift as the group listens for the hope that’s for from God and are called to live differently in the the living. face of death. SHARE: The contrast between a dog and a lion made more sense in Solomon’s time. Dogs SUMMARIZE AND were considered scavengers comparable to rats CHALLENGE or vultures today, while lions were considered powerful and stately. Solomon concluded that APPLY: Read the following statements, it is better to be “a living dog . . . than a dead directing the group to signal with a thumbs lion.” While a person is alive there is hope for a up or thumbs down whether they agree or future with Christ. disagree with the statements: (1) We can never use our circumstances to determine if ASK: How does the resurrection of Jesus God loves us and accepts us. (2) Life is meant to change a believer’s attitude toward life be more than an exercise in endurance. Allow and death? (PSG, p. 114) time for several people to share why they agree or disagree with each statement. READ: Invite a volunteer to read ASK: Ecclesiastes 9:7-10, while the group How can a person live with a healthy listens for Solomon’s words regarding understanding of death without being (PSG, p. 115) enjoying life. fearful of death? DISCUSS: Guide the group to discuss one CLARIFY: Explain that white clothing was associated with joy and celebration and of the question sets on page 117 of the PSG. that oil on one’s head represented God’s PRAY: Close in prayer, asking the Lord blessing and the joy it brings. to lead us to enjoy the blessings of life, knowing that we have a future with Christ. LIST: Create teams, directing each team to examine Ecclesiastes 9:7-10 and make a list Pray that God will help us to honor Him in of the actions and attitudes that Solomon all that we do and guide us to live gratefully encouraged people to take to enjoy life. throughout all the days we are granted. Call for volunteers to share their findings. HIGHLIGHT: God intends us to enjoy the blessings of life He has given us in acknowledgment of Him. (PSG, p. 115) ASK: How does enjoying the blessings of life honor God? (PSG, p. 116) HIGHLIGHT: Point to Pack Item 4 (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?). Ask: How has your view of these things changed as a result of our study through the Books of Job and Ecclesiastes? What might need to change in order for you to make the most of your life for Christ’s glory?

MUSIC REFLECTION Secure lyrics for “Take My Life, and Let Direct the group to remember the first time It Be,” by Frances R. Havergal. Enlist four they faced the reality of death, reflecting on volunteers to each read one verse of the how that experience made them feel. After hymn. Be prepared to display the chorus studying Ecclesiastes 9, ask: How would for the group to read in unison between you explain to a friend why contemplating the verses. death should cause us to enjoy life more? Allow volunteers to share their reflections CREATIVE WRITING with the group. Gather chart paper and markers. LOGICAL After studying Ecclesiastes 9, lead the Lead the group to respond to the following group to construct a recipe for joyful living quotes regarding life and death by that incorporates the areas addressed by identifying differences and similarities Solomon that are listed on Pack Item 4 between the quotes. Number the quotes (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?). Create teams, and ask each person to determine the directing the teams to record the recipe on quote that resonates most with them by chart paper and be prepared to share the displaying the quote number with their recipe with the group. fingers. Discuss how these quotes relate to Ecclesiastes 9. VISUAL (1) “If today were your last day of life, how Gather an hourglass, paper, and pencils. would you spend it? Would you do what Prior to the session, secure an hourglass you’re doing now?” to bring to show the group. Discuss how —Max Lucado, Great Day Every Day: our lives are represented by sand in an Navigating Life’s Challenges with Promise hourglass. Call for the group to describe and Purpose how the hourglass reinforces that everyone (2) “Take care of your life and the Lord will has a limited number of days. Provide take care of your death.” paper and pencil instructing each person —George Whitefield, as quoted in to draw an hourglass that represents their The Westminster Collection of Christian lives today. Instruct them to use the area Quotations around the drawing for note taking as the group studies Ecclesiastes 9. (3) “I am not tired of my work, neither am I tired of the world; yet when Christ calls me home, I shall go with the gladness of a boy bounding away from his school.” —Adoniram Judson, as quoted by Edward Judson, The Life of Adoniram Judson

ECCLESIASTES 12:1-14 MEMORY VERSE: ECCLESIASTES 12:13

STUDY Ecclesiastes 12:1-14, making a list of the Prepare to Display: descriptions of aging in verses 1-8. Paraphrase Pack Item 2 (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) Solomon’s concluding words in verses 9-14. Pack Item 4 (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?) Make note of the word Shepherd used in verse Make Copies of: 11, and be prepared to make a New Testament connection to Jesus as our Shepherd. Pack Item 14 (Handout: Sun, Moon, and Stars in Wisdom Poetry) CREATE a teaching plan for your group using the ideas on pages 140–142. Select several CONSULT the weekly Explore the Bible adult biographical books with pictures on the front podcast to gain insights on the go about this that would be recognizable by your group. week’s study on Ministry Grid, Apple Podcasts, Be aware that this is an evangelistic lesson Stitcher, Spotify, LifeWay’s Digital Pass, or at designed to lead people to understand that goExploreTheBible.com/adults-training. purpose in life is found through fearing and REINFORCE the study by praying daily for obeying God regardless of life stage. individuals in the group who may not know

GATHER the following items: Christ as their personal Shepherd and Lord.

Extra Personal Study Guides (PSGs)

Paper and pencils for each individual

Date of My Bible Study:______133 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources FIRST THOUGHTS KEY DOCTRINE Reading biographies and autobiographies gives us a glimpse into the Last Things thoughts and events that shaped a person. We discover why they did some Christ will judge all men in of the things they did and how their experiences impacted the decisions righteousness (2 Cor. 5:10). they made in life. We also see ourselves in some of the stories. In many cases, we discover wisdom that helps us deal with life and gives us perspective. In Ecclesiastes 12, the Teacher looked back at life and emphasized the importance of finishing well, giving us wisdom that will help us live our lives well.

(In PSG, p . 118) What biography or autobiography have you recently read? What insights did you gain about life in general from reading that book?

UNDERSTAND THE CONTEXT BIBLE SKILL ECCLESIASTES 12:1-14 Use a Bible concordance to gain understanding. The Book of Ecclesiastes teaches at least ten essential truths for living life Using a Bible concordance, read “under the sun”: references to the “fear of God” 1. Anything that does not have eternal value has really no significant value. Everything humans achieve appears and disappears like a breath on in Psalms, Proverbs, Job, and a cold morning. Only what God does is lasting (Eccl. 1:1-11). Ecclesiastes (biblical wisdom 2. The wise person will find meaning in life through faith in God. All literature) and develop your own other pursuits to discover meaning in life—such as education, wealth, definition or understanding of this recreation, work, and power—are dead ends (1:12–2:26; 5:10–7:6). term. How does the fear of God 3. Time is a gift from God. Wise people use time as God made it to be relate to a person’s trust in God? used—doing the right things, at the right times, in the right ways (3:1-15). 4. Obedience to God is more important than religious expressions of devotion. What’s more, God expects His people to have integrity and keep their promises to Him as well as to others (4:13–5:7). 5. Wise people trust God and His sovereign will for their lives (7:11-14). 6. God is not impressed with human efforts to achieve righteousness; He is pleased with humble devotion to Him (7:15-18). 7. Wisdom involves recognizing one’s own sin and leads to having compassion on others who also are sinners (7:19-22). 8. Wise people live their lives with a proper perspective of their mortality. They realize life is precious and that their window of opportunity is short-lived (11:7–12:8). 9. Wise people enjoy the life and blessings God has given them (2:24-26; 3:12-13,22; 5:18-20; 8:15; 9:1-10; 11:7-9).

134 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources 10. Wise people fear God and obey His Word, realizing they will give an account to Him for how they lived their lives (12:9-14). This was Solomon’s final conclusion.

EXPLORE THE TEXT

THE TWILIGHT (ECCL . 12:1-8) Verse 1 Solomon closed the book with a poem about the universal pattern of death that VERSE 1 faces all mankind. The eventual return to the dust is the reason to grab hold of life while you can, while the opportunity exists. Notice that the Teacher did 1 Remember also your not say to remember God but remember also your Creator. The word Creator Creator in the days of reminds us of the One who gave us everything we have. Our Creator is the One who made us and gave us life. Our Creator made this marvelous creation your youth, before the for us to live in and manage. Our Creator gives us “wisdom and knowledge evil days come and the and joy” (2:26). He gives us “wealth and possessions” and enables us “to enjoy years draw near of which them” (5:19). To remember your Creator means to bring to mind daily what you will say, “I have no your Creator has done for you. In the remainder of this passage, the Teacher hammered home that we pleasure in them”; have to remember our Creator before it is too late. He repeated the word before in verses 1,2, and 6. Solomon implied that the days are coming when it will be difficult to remember your Creator. Theevil days are the days of pain and suffering. For some of us, it is difficult to imagine what old age will be like. But the teacher helps us here; he helps us face the reality of mortality.

Verse 2 In verses 2-5, the Teacher used several metaphors to describe the deterioration VERSE 2 of the body as old age approaches. In verse 2, Solomon pictured old age as a gathering storm. Old age can be a season of darkness. There is no break in 2 before the sun and the the clouds to let sunlight through: the clouds return after the rain. Elderly light and the moon and people often receive one setback after another: they fall and break a hip, they get pneumonia, an old friend dies. Remember your Creator in the days the stars are darkened of your youth, before those days of gloom and darkness overtake you. It may and the clouds return be difficult to remember your Creator in those days of darkness. after the rain, Verses 3-5 The Teacher described the changes of old age like a crumbling house. The keepers of the house are the hands, and their trembling describes tremors that become more common with aging. The strong legs that once carried his body—the foundations—were now weak and feeble. The grinders are the teeth. Chewing food becomes more difficult as gums deteriorate and teeth are lost. Those who look through the windows are the eyes that fail to see as well as they once did. Thedoors of his ears were now quiet. Rising to the sound of a bird is an accurate description of what many aged people experience—waking up earlier in the morning.

Session 13 : What Is Life About? 135 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources A fear of what is high, and … in the way points to a recognition of one’s frailty and being at more risk of an accident. The blossoming ofthe almond VERSES 3-5 tree refers to the whitening of the hair, like the almond tree’s flowers turn 3 in the day when the white just before falling from the branches. The expressionthe grasshopper drags itself along most likely refers to one not having the energy and the keepers of the house strength to do what one once was able to do. The phrasedesire fails likely tremble, and the strong is a euphemism for a loss of sexual drive. men are bent, and the At the end of verse 5, the Teacher transitioned to metaphors describing what happens when we die. Man is going to his eternal home. Eternal home grinders cease because was a poetic way of referring to the grave, which seems eternal compared they are few, and those to one’s short life on earth. It also emphasizes the finality of death. The who look through the universal nature of the statement is evidence it is not talking about heaven. windows are dimmed, Added to this picture are those who walk about in the street mourning, highlighting the loss and bereavement of death. 4 and the doors on the street are shut— Verses 6-8 when the sound of the In these verses, the Teacher used several idioms or figures of speech grinding is low, and one to describe death. Each of the items in verse 6 has something happen to it suddenly, rendering it no longer functional and emphasizing the rises up at the sound abruptness of death. Also, each of the items was valuable, emphasizing the of a bird, and all the great value of life. Silver and gold were precious metals. Both a silver cord, daughters of song are probably a necklace, and a golden bowl would have been rare, expensive, brought low—5 they and extravagant luxuries. Given water was the most important resource for life in the ancient are afraid also of what Near East, a shattered bowl at the fountain and a broken wheel that was is high, and terrors are part of the mechanism used to draw water from a well would have been in the way; the almond serious matters. No water, no life. In verse 7, the Teacher described death in terms more common to the tree blossoms, the Old Testament. The phrasethe dust returns to the earth uses the language grasshopper drags itself of Genesis 2–3, when Adam and Eve sinned and brought the curse of death along, and desire fails, on all of humanity. According to Genesis 2:7, “the Lord God formed the because man is going to man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.” Here the Teacher pictured his eternal home, and death as the reversal of creation. The dust from which God made us returns the mourners go about to the earth: dust to dust. The breath of life which God breathed into us the streets— returns to God who gave it. It is important to note that death is not a welcome visitor but an intruder in life as God originally designed it. From the New Testament we know that Jesus conquered death and that through Him there is life beyond death. But the fact that there is life beyond death should not lead us to waste this present life on earth. The other implication of this passage is that we are to live for the glory of God before it is too late. We can finish well by continuing to focus on God even as we age. We should concentrate all the more on rejoicing every day by remembering our Creator. This is why the theme of remembrance is so central in Scripture. In remembering, we anchor our lives in the truths that guide our steps.

136 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources One of the saddest medical conditions that comes with age is Alzheimer’s. It is difficult for the patient, and it is difficult for the families. I once heard a pastor recount the last days of his grandfather. By the time VERSES 6-8 his grandfather was in his early 90s, he found it hard to remember much of 6 before the silver cord is anything. Sometimes it was hard for him to even remember who he was. He would tell his family in a confused state, “I can’t remember who I am!” snapped, or the golden But his family would comfort him and say, “That’s OK. We know who you bowl is broken, or the are, and we can take care of everything you need.” There are many good pitcher is shattered at the reasons to remember your Creator. But one of the best reasons to remember fountain, or the wheel the Creator is that the Creator remembers you. He knows who you are and what you need. broken at the cistern, 7 and the dust returns How does the limited time we are given help us focus our lives on to the earth as it was, stewarding our days well? and the spirit returns to God who gave it. 8 Vanity of vanities, says the Preacher; all is vanity. THE TRUTH (ECCL . 12:9-11) Verses 9-11 While the Teacher struggled and wrestled with life under the sun, in the end he arrived at a conclusion that squared him with that of traditional biblical literature. He was a good teacher and shared his wisdom with others VERSES 9-11 who struggle with the meaning of life. Moreover, like any good teacher, he 9 Besides being wise, also listened. That is, he made use of all the resources before him to build his curriculum. He worked hard at understanding, interpreting, and the Preacher also taught communicating what he had gathered on his journey. He has sought, found, the people knowledge, and clearly passed on what he has learned. weighing and studying For this reason, the words of the wise are like goads. Ancient cattle and arranging many prods or goads were large pointed sticks with which the shepherd would poke an animal to get it moving and turning in the right direction. Goads proverbs with great work because they can cause pain. Goads work by directing the animal. A care. 10 The Preacher good shepherd directs cattle for their protection, using goads to lead them sought to find words of cattle to sustenance. The sayings of the wise likewise can be painful, but they are painful directors that protect your life. delight, and uprightly Verse 11 continues: and like nails firmly fixed are the collected he wrote words of truth. sayings; they are given by one Shepherd The word nails is used to evoke 11 The words of the wise the imagery of tent pegs. Tent pegs or stakes are firmly planted into the are like goads, and like ground to keep the shepherd’s tent stable—to keep it from blowing away in a storm. Therefore, their collected sayings give stability and security to one’s nails firmly fixed are life. Sustenance, stability, and security are gifts of wisdom coming from the the collected sayings; hand of a loving shepherd. they are given by one Shepherd.

Session 13 : What Is Life About? 137 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Solomon, identifying himself as the Preacher, explained that he taught others what he had discovered. He also recorded words to be shared. He emphasized that true wisdom comes from God. There is a real sense in which all Christians should follow in the pattern of Solomon here. After all, the people of God are called and charged to be people who, having themselves learned, now teach others what they have learned. One of the marks of a faithful Christian church is the evidence of a learning and teaching environment in which the passing on of what we learn becomes a regular part of our service to one another. Believers can pass on to others the truth and wisdom they have gained.

Who in your life was the most influential Bible teacher or discipler? What made their impact on you so profound?

THE CONCLUSION (ECCL . 12:12-14) Verses 12-14 VERSES 12-14 We might be tempted to see life as only from the perspective of “under the sun.” The temptation is always great to forget the God who rules from the 12 My son, beware heavens and directs all activities under the sun. This is why it is important of anything beyond to fear the God who sovereignly rules over all things. The wisdom Book of Proverbs states: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the these. Of making many knowledge of the Holy One is insight” (Prov. 9:10; see also 1:7). Again, the books there is no end, source of true wisdom is the fear of the Lord. That is where it begins, and and much study is a from there it impacts all areas of life. To fear God is to stand in awe of Him. God is the almighty Creator; we weariness of the flesh. are mere creatures. God is eternal; we are a finite vapor. God is sovereign; 13 The end of the matter; we are dependent. God is holy; we are sinners. The attitude of fearing God all has been heard. leads to the action of keeping His commandments. If we acknowledge God Fear God and keep his as our King, we will naturally seek to do what He says. commandments, for Fearing God is not just our duty; this is the whole duty it’s our essence. God created us of man. 14 For God will bring every deed into to stand in awe of Him. judgment, with every Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” secret thing, whether (John 14:15). Solomon agreed and states that this is the whole duty of good or evil. man or for all humanity. Interestingly enough, the Hebrew does not have the word “duty,” so it reads literally that fearing God and keeping His commandments “is the whole of everyone.” Fearing God is not just our duty; it’s our essence. God created us to stand in awe of Him and keep His commandments.

138 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources With that in mind, Solomon concluded the Book of Ecclesiastes by reminding us that God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing. Nothing will be excluded. God will judge our every deed, our every word, even our every thought. Jesus said, “I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matt. 12:36-37). It’s important to remember that for Christians, God’s judgment is no longer a threat. His perfect love expressed in Jesus Christ casts out all fear of judgment. This is true because Jesus took on Himself the judgment that was due for us. We do not seek to keep God’s commandments because we dread the coming judgment. Rather, we seek to keep God’s commandments because we are grateful for His grace, for saving us from that judgment.

The purpose of life is found in fearing and obeying God.

This isthe end of the matter. John Newton, the famous writer who penned the hymn Amazing Grace, once said: “My memory is nearly gone; but I remember two things: That I am a great sinner, and that Christ is a great Saviour.”1 The purpose of life is found in fearing and obeying God. The provision of Christ allows us to be free of the fear of condemnation. The Spirit of God empowers us to obey His commands. Thus, revering and obeying God starts with trusting Jesus, God’s Son, as Savior and Lord.

What are the areas of obedience that you struggle with the most? How can the fear of God influence your obedience in these areas?

1. William Jay, The Autobiography of The Rev. William Jay, eds. George Redford and John Angell James (London: Hamilton, Adams, & Co., 1854), 281.

FOCUS ATTENTION STATE: We will see his description of the aging process and what he considered the true PRIOR TO THE SESSION: Secure several meaning of life. He appeared to want to drive biographies or autobiographies that would home a stark picture of death with the desire resonate with your group. You might that people will see the importance of moving choose books from the children’s section toward godly obedience now. that have a picture on the cover and can be quickly read. Display the books for easy DISTRIBUTE/EXPLAIN: Provide pencils identification as the group arrives. and paper for each person. Direct the group to draw a line across the paper, INTRODUCE: Select one person from the labeling one end of the line Young and the biographies and share a little about his or other end Old. Relate that throughout the her life. Indicate that most biographies session there will be opportunity to record begin with the birth of the person and descriptions and insights related to both continue to the person’s death or the ends of the line. present time. STATE: Our own biographies are being written READ: Direct a volunteer to read as we live each day. God’s Word leaves no doubt Ecclesiastes 12:1-8, as the group listens that we will all face a physical death, so it is for an initial challenge and descriptors of critical that we reflect on key events and stages the twilight years of life. as we move through life. DISCUSS: How would you communicate QUERY: What biography or autobiography the importance of considering God when have you recently read? What insights did younger? Does a person’s failure to you gain about life in general from reading consider God when younger disqualify that book? (PSG, p. 118) them in the future? Explain. (PSG, p. 121) TRANSITION: Later in his life, Solomon HIGHLIGHT: Using Pack Item 14 (Handout: reflected on the meaning of life and what is Sun, Moon, and Stars in Wisdom Poetry), worthwhile. In today’s study, we will examine discuss Solomon’s previous uses of the changes that occur as people age and the value sun, moon, and stars with his use here. of trusting God at a young age. Ask: What seems to have been Solomon’s intention with the imagery he used in verse 2? EXPLORE THE TEXT GUIDE: Call attention to the note-taking CONTEXTUALIZE: Utilizing Pack Item 2 sheet. Direct the group to list the (Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes) and descriptions of aging on the side of the line Pack Item 4 (Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits?), titled Old. Be prepared to offer clarifications remind the group Solomon had already on specific verses as necessary. Direct shared that pleasure, work, power, and the group to write the words urgency and wealth left him feeling everything was avoid dumb decisions under the Young end futile. Share with the group that Solomon of the line. summarized his musings on life in the concluding verses of Ecclesiastes.

140 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources REREAD: Guide the group to reread ASK: Why do people, even some believers, Ecclesiastes 12:8, highlighting that seem to wince when hearing the words once again Solomon shared the theme “fear and obey God”? Why do these of the book. common expressions in the Bible, “fear God” and “the fear of the Lord,” get ASK: How should having a biblical ignored today? (PSG, p. 125) understanding of mortality encourage people not to put off living life as God intended? SUMMARIZE AND CHALLENGE READ: Direct the group to silently read LIST: Lead the group to create a list of Ecclesiastes 12:9-11 and look for what the things that distract people from continuing Teacher (Solomon) determined was his role to focus on God as they grow older. to the younger generation. Then ask:What actions can you take to WRITE: Lead the group to record on minimize these distractions? (PSG, p. 126) the bottom of their note-taking sheet a EXAMINE: Guide the group to examine the response to why it is important for a person ten essential truths of living life shared in to pass down what they learn to the next Understand the Context (PSG, p. 119) generation. Encourage the group to also note what happens when insights fail to REFLECTION: On a scale of 1 to 10, how be passed to younger generations. Allow would you rate your readiness to give an time for several individuals to share their account to God for your life? What needs to responses. change in order to increase your readiness? (PSG, p. 126) DIRECT: Lead the group to mark an X where they would place themselves on the REVIEW: Lead the group to reflect on continuum from young to old. their study of the Book of Ecclesiastes. Ask: What’s one thing you’ll use from our RECORD: On the note-taking sheet under Old, guide the group to write the studies to help you stay focused on finding word Hope. purpose in fearing and obeying God? PROVIDE: Distribute copies of the Fall STATE: In verse 11, we see the word “Shepherd.” We must remember that Jesus is 2021 Personal Study Guides (PSGs) to our Shepherd, and through the empowering of each person, encouraging them to begin the Holy Spirit believers find strength to fear reading Philippians 1:1-11 for the next God and keep His commandments. group meeting. PRAY: Close in prayer, asking the Lord READ: Invite a volunteer to read to lead us to obey His wisdom, pass His Ecclesiastes 12:12-14, listening for wisdom to the next generation, and Solomon’s concluding words. recognize that nothing is hidden from God. EXPLAIN: Solomon concluded that the only thing valuable in our temporary life is to fear God and keep His commandments.

MUSIC DRAMA Secure a recording or a copy of the lyrics Pre-enlist one person to present for “Find Us Faithful,” by Steve Green. Ecclesiastes 12:1-14 as a monologue of Read or play the recording to summarize Solomon speaking to a young man. Assure the concepts of the study of Ecclesiastes. the person presenting the monologue that As another option, enlist someone in the a paraphrase of the Scripture is appropriate. group to sing the song. Remind the group The monologue could be used to introduce that God calls us to be faithful regardless of the verses or as a conclusion to the session. our stage of life. COMPARE/CONTRAST PHYSICAL Gather chart paper and markers. Prior to the group time, label one side of your room Agree, and the other side After the group has examined Ecclesiastes Disagree. Guide the group to respond 12:1-4, invite a volunteer to read Psalm 71. to the following statements by moving Create teams and provide each team with to the appropriate side of the room: (1) paper and markers. Direct them to compare Wisdom comes with aging. (2) Our culture and contrast how the two passages values older adults. (3) Older adults frequently describe aging. Guide one team to share provide a picture of despair. If preferred, the their conclusions as the other teams listen group could signal their response with a for things they would like to add to the thumbs up or a thumbs down. Follow up discussion. the statements by studying Ecclesiastes 12:1-14. ILLUSTRATION Gather colored pencils or pencils CREATIVE WRITING and paper. Gather pencils and paper. Provide a piece of paper and pencils to each Provide each person with paper and a person in the group. Suggest that they pencil, directing them to reread Ecclesiastes use the paper and pencils to illustrate the 12:1-14 and visualize themselves listening memory verse (Eccl. 12:13). to Solomon’s words. Guide them to respond to the following prompt as if they were writing in a diary: I have discovered that meaning in life is found in . . . Allow time for several people to share their diary thoughts.

These items are available on the Explore PACK ITEM 3 the Bible Leader Pack digital download file Map: Solomon’s Building Projects as PDFs to create your own handouts or media presentations for your group. Items Sessions 8-13 marked as handouts are also available Locate a map in a Bible atlas that identifies as reproducible masters included in the the area around Israel during Solomon’s Explore the Bible Leader Pack digital files. time (see 1 Kings 6–7; 9:1-22; 2 Chron. 2–4; 8:1-12). Include the locations of Phoenicia, Jerusalem, Baalath-beer, and Ezion-geber. PACK ITEM 1 Map: Ancient Near East During the Patriarchs Sessions 1-13 Use the map on page 155 or locate a map in a Bible atlas that shows the layout of the city of Jerusalem in the first century BC.

PACK ITEM 4 Poster: Worthwhile Pursuits? Sessions 8,9,10,12,13 Create a poster that highlights the major themes Solomon discussed in Ecclesiastes, PACK ITEM 2 including work, pleasure, wisdom, wealth, Outlines of Job and Ecclesiastes and power. Include Scripture references for Sessions 1-13 each topic. Refer to the outline for Luke in the CSB Study Bible or on page 9 of the PSG.

Explore the Bible 143 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources PACK ITEM 5 PACK ITEM 8 Poster: Job’s Statements of Faith Handout: Ecclesiastes Time Line Sessions 2,6-7 Sessions 8,12 Use a Bible dictionary or commentary Locate a study Bible with a time line to create a list of Job’s major statements of the major people and events leading of faith. Be sure to include Job 42:1-2. up to and during Solomon’s life (from 1200 BC–800 BC). Use it as a reference PACK ITEM 6 during this study of Ecclesiastes. Key Verses: Job 13:15-16 PACK ITEM 9 Sessions 2,7 Handout: Memory Verses Bookmark Create a poster that lists Job 13:15-16: “Even if he kills me, I will hope in him. Sessions 1-13 I will still defend my ways before him. Make a list of these suggested memory Yes, this will result in my deliverance, for verses to distribute to your group: no godless person can appear before him.” • Job 1:21 • Job 13:15 PACK ITEM 7 • Job 19:25 Handout: Job Time Line • Job 28:28 Session 1 • Job 36:10 Locate a study Bible with a time line • Job 40:9 of the major people and events leading up to and during the time of Job (from • Job 42:5 2300 BC–2100 BC). Use it as a reference • Ecclesiastes 2:26 during the study of Job. • Ecclesiastes 3:11 • Ecclesiastes 5:1 • Ecclesiastes 7:20 • Ecclesiastes 9:10 • Ecclesiastes 12:13

144 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources PACK ITEM 10 PACK ITEM 12 Handout: Friends of Job Handout: Wisdom Poetry Sessions 2,3,5 Sessions 4,11 Use a Bible dictionary or commentary Use a Bible dictionary to create a to create a handout that highlights Job’s handout that explains the meaning and friends and their actions and attitudes use of wisdom poetry. toward him. Include Eliphaz (Job 4–5; 15; and 22), Bildad (Job 8; 18), and Zophar PACK ITEM 13 (Job 11; 20). Handout: Redeemer in the Old Testament

PACK ITEM 11 Session 3 Use a Bible dictionary or commentary to Handout: “Vanity” and “Under the Sun” create a handout that explains the meaning in Ecclesiastes and use of Redeemer in the Old Testament. Sessions 8,10 Be sure to include the meanings of padah, Use a Bible concordance to create a handout kipper, and ga’al in your handout. Also note highlighting the Bible passages that include Job 19:25-27 in your listing. the words “vanity” and “under the sun.” PACK ITEM 14 Handout: Sun, Moon, and Stars in Wisdom Poetry Session 13 Create a handout that highlights the Bible passages that include the words sun, moon, and stars in the following Bible books: Job; Psalms; Proverbs; Ecclesiastes; and Song of Songs.

Examples from Explore the Bible Leader Pack. The Pack is available for purchase at goExploreTheBible.com.

by Harry D. Champy III People today seem to take two polar opposite approaches to the concept of Satan or the Devil: rejection or obsession. Some deny his existence or make him a fictional caricature. Others obsess with Satan and inflate him to a rival deity. For the Christian the Book of Job offers some helpful insight into the nature of Satan.

The Term The Greek New Testament used the term diabolos (usually translated “Devil”) while the Old Testament preferred the Hebrew term Satan. Diabolos clearly indicates an accuser, but Satan seems to indicate a more general adversary. The verb form (“to accuse”) was used 6 times1 while the noun (“adversary”) was used 27 times in 23 verses.2 Fuente del Ángel Caído (Fountain of the Fallen Angel or Monument of the Fallen Angel) is a fountain located “Satan” could be used for human or in the Buen Retiro Park in Madrid, Spain. nonhuman adversaries. The Philistines were afraid that David would turn against them and become an adversary. Solomon conquered the adversaries all around Israel before God raised them up in punishment. The psalmist prayed that God would raise up an adversary against the wicked.

146 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Scripture also uses the word of The relative position of Satan is clear. nonhuman adversaries. In the story of He is a created being, subject to Yahweh. Even Balaam’s donkey, the angel of the Lord was his presence and speaking is subjugated to an adversary and blocked the donkey’s path. God. Satan is not a rival deity; he is a created An adversary provoked David to undertake being, a mere angel. a census of the people. Zechariah had a vision of the high priest Joshua with the His Purpose angel of the Lord and Satan. In Job, the word was used with the As did the other angels, Satan came to present definite article, “the Satan/Adversary.” This himself before Yahweh. In particular, he had was not an ordinary adversary, but the come from roaming through the earth and ultimate adversary. The Hebrew word satan going back and forth in it. Both Hebrew was used more in Job than all other Old verbs denote continual action. While the Testament books combined.3 Therefore, the first verb is often translated as a casual Book of Job offers the biggest glimpse into action, it instead describes a purposeful the nature of Satan in the Old Testament. activity. This means Satan had intentionally and continually gone throughout the earth, His Position searching. The second verb is common and means The Book of Job introduces Satan in the “to walk.” The Hebrew stem indicates prose section in Job 1–2, the background intensive or reflexive action. Satan for the conversations in the poetic heart of intensively conducted the task of walking the book. After describing the exemplary to and fro himself. The action clearly reveals nature of Job, the scene changed in 1:6. On an area in which Satan is inferior to God; a certain day, the angels gathered to present unlike Yahweh, Satan is not omnipresent. themselves before Yahweh. Literally, the Yahweh asked Satan specifically if he text reads, “And it was the day, and the sons had “considered” (literally, “set his heart on”) of God came.” This was not an impromptu Yahweh’s “servant” Job. After God praised gathering; it was “the day.” The image is of a Job, Satan questioned Job’s motives: did king calling his courtiers into his presence. Job fear God for nothing in return? The They do not come uninvited or of their own implication was that Job served God only accord. They are summoned at the appointed for what he would receive in return, which time, “the day.” was a hedge of protection and an increase in These courtiers, “the sons of God,” are material blessing. clearly angelic beings that God created. They Based on these verses, Satan’s general came “to present themselves before Yahweh, purpose was to search throughout the earth, and also the Satan came” (Job 1:6; writer’s to notice and examine its inhabitants. His translation). Satan was among these beings. specific purposes were to be Job’s adversary, Yahweh speaks first, questioning Satan question his motives, and peel back any about where he has come from. With such façade from his outward appearance a courtly scene, one would rightly expect and actions. the superior to speak first, questioning his subject. The question does not reflect His Power the superior’s lack of knowledge, but his granting permission for the lesser being To prove Job’s motives Satan challenged to speak. Job’s righteousness (1:11). He challenged God to stretch out His hand and touch Job’s

Explore the Bible 147 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources possessions, “all that (belongs) to him,” to see in this fallen world, we Christians can rest if Job would not curse Yahweh to His face. in this knowledge. Yahweh accepted the challenge and allowed In Genesis 50:20, Joseph revealed to Satan to touch or take his possessions, but his brothers: “You intended to harm me, not to touch Job. but God intended it for good to accomplish After Job passed the first challenge what is now being done” (NIV). Paul wrote and test by maintaining his integrity, Satan in Romans 8:28 that “in all things God suggested a second challenge (2:4-5). If works for the good of those who love him, Yahweh would touch Job’s skin, he would who have been called according to his definitely curse God. Again, Yahweh agreed purpose” (NIV). Satan’s activity is limited and allowed Satan to touch his body, but not by a God who is all-powerful (omnipotent), to kill Job. all-knowing (omniscient), and all-loving! The unfolding story reveals Satan’s The Book of Job clearly describes Satan power. He is able to touch and destroy as a mere angel with limited power who earthly things: Job’s oxen and donkeys, sought to destroy Job’s spirit but who was sheep, and camels. Even people around Job unable to do anything to thwart God’s plan were killed: servants, sons, and daughters. for Job. Satan, the adversary in Job, has not Job’s own health was affected as he was changed. He has used the same strategies stricken with painful sores over his entire since the garden of Eden and continues body. Clearly, Satan has powers within to prowl around today like a roaring lion the earthly, physical realm. He was able to seeking whom he may devour (1 Pet 5:8), destroy physical things. but he is still subject to God’s sovereignty.

The text clearly shows, however, that 1. Pss. 38:20; 71:13; 109:4,20,29; and Zech. 3:1. 2. Num. 22:22,32; 1 Sam. 29:4; 2 Sam. 19:22; 1 Kings 5:4; 11:14,23,25; 1 Chron. 21:1; Satan was able to do only what God allowed. Job 1:6,7(x2),8,9,12(x2); 2:1,2(x2),3,4,6,7; Ps. 109:6; and Zech. 3:1,2(x2). Satan’s power was limited by God and His 3. Fourteen times in 11 verses. will. Satan played his part as adversary, but Harry D. Champy III teaches Bible at Lanier Christian Academy, Branch, Georgia. This article his role was limited. originally appeared in the Summer 2016 issue of Biblical Illustrator.

His Plot vs. God’s Plan Satan had plotted to destroy Job and have him curse God. What happened though? After Yahweh Himself spoke to Job out of the whirlwind, Job responded; he had heard of God but now had actually seen Him with his own eyes (42:5). Previously, Job had a basic understanding of God but had gained a clearer vision and obtained a better, more intimate relationship with God. After hearing God speak, Job knew without a doubt that God was in control and that God loved him! What does Job teach us about “the adversary”? Satan is not able to do anything beyond God’s will. His power is limited, and his defeat is definite! Job proclaimed this, and the rest of Scripture confirms this. Even

By J. Mark Terry All of us have gone to visit a grieving friend presence for seven days and seven nights. and have wondered what to say. Sometimes This period of mourning was typical of we say nothing. Other times when we do mourning for a prominent person (Gen. talk, we later question whether we said the 50:10). It showed their respect for Job and right thing. Job’s friends came to see him as their identification with his sorrow. Who he grieved over the deaths of his children were these concerned friends? (Job 2:11). How effectively did they comfort their friend? A careful study of Job’s three Eliphaz friends and their efforts will help us all become better comforters. Eliphaz always spoke first. This indicates The Bible tells us Eliphaz, Bildad, and that he was the oldest and most prominent Zophar learned of Job’s despair and agreed of the three men. He was the kindest of to meet and travel together to visit Job (v. 11). the three friends. Before coming to see This demonstrates they knew each other Job, Eliphaz had a dream that affected him and Job before the sad events transpired. greatly (4:12-21) and likely set the tone for Clearly, sincere concern prompted their all three of his speeches. Eliphaz believed visit, and they meant for their words to that all suffering was punishment for sin. console Job in his loss and instruct him in Therefore, in Eliphaz’s mind, because Job righteousness. was suffering greatly, he must have sinned When the three friends approached Job, grievously against God. grief overcame them, and they dramatically Eliphaz made three speeches in the expressed their anguish. First, they wept Book of Job (chaps. 4–5; 15; and 22). In his loudly for their friend and his suffering. first speech, he reminded Job that sinful Second, they tore their robes. Third, they men suffer for their sins, and he promised sprinkled dust on their heads. All of these Job forgiveness and restoration if only Job actions expressed deep sorrow. Beyond would repent. In his second speech Eliphaz these actions, they sat silently in Job’s used sharper words. He expressed shock at Job’s defense of his actions. He called on

Explore the Bible 149 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources Job to repent and seek reconciliation with Evaluation God—lest Job experience the terrible fate of the wicked. In his third speech Eliphaz The Bible says Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar cast off all restraint and accused Job of came to comfort Job. How well did they do? wickedness; nevertheless, Eliphaz ended his Job gave them a bad evaluation. He declared speech with praise for God’s mercy on those that they were “miserable comforters” who repent. (16:2). Surely they meant well, but they Eliphaz was a good man, a man of made Job feel even worse than he did before upright character and sympathy. Were he their arrival. not kind and sympathetic, he would not Job’s friends did some things right, have traveled many miles to see his friend. though. They did visit Job, which was good. Still, his narrow and limited understanding Many persons will avoid those who are of human suffering led him to misdiagnose grieving. Second, they sat with Job in silence Job’s problem. for seven days. Often silence is healing. Many times one’s presence is more helpful than one’s Bildad words. Third, they expressed their opinions to Job personally. They did not talk behind Most Bible commentators believe Bildad his back. was younger than Eliphaz, as it was Still, they failed completely in their customary for the oldest person to speak efforts to help Job. Why did they fail? They first. He expressed amazement that Job failed because they held these convictions: would question the traditional belief that (1) All suffering is the result of sin. (2) God suffering is the result of sin. The Book of Job punishes each act of sin with a penalty includes three speeches by Bildad (chaps. 8; that corresponds to the gravity of the sin. 18; and 25). (3) Suffering is proof of personal guilt. These In his first speech he implied that Job’s ideas prevented them from understanding sin may have contributed to his children’s Job and his problem. deaths. In his second speech Bildad Not surprisingly, the three friends discussed the awful fate of the wicked, and struggled to understand suffering. Four in his third speech he extolled the power of thousand years later we still wrestle with God and the sinful nature of human beings. this issue. Truly, some suffering is the His last speech was quite brief (chap. 25), result of sin, but in Job’s case the friends’ maybe an indicator that Bildad had grown assumptions were wrong. The Book of Job tired of talking to someone who would not presents a new understanding of suffering. agree with him. Not all suffering is the result of sin. Sometimes the innocent do suffer in this Zophar life. However, “suffering may be used as a means of demonstrating the faith of the The fact that Zophar spoke third suggests saints, strengthening the faith of the saints, he was the youngest of the friends. Like and extending the influence of the saints.” his friends, Zophar focused on Job’s That which can easily be overlooked may disobedience as the cause of his suffering. be one of the most hope-filled lessons from The Book of Job records only two the book: “Suffering, faithfully endured, speeches by Zophar (chaps. 11; 20), though defeats Satan.”1 some commentators suggest that a portion 1. J. W. Watts, Old Testament Teaching (Nashville: Broadman Press, 1967), 134. of chapter 27 might be Zophar’s third speech. J. Mark Terry is Professor Emeritus of Missions at Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary. This article originally appeared in the Fall 2005 issue of Biblical Illustrator.

by Duane A. Garrett The Hebrew word hebel is found throughout satisfied with money, and it calls thishebel, the Old Testament, but it is a theme of meaning that their behavior is absurd, a Ecclesiastes, encapsulating the meaning waste of a life. The term, though, does not of that book. It is translated “vanity” in always imply moral disapproval. Ecclesiastes the older versions but is typically rendered 9:9 encourages the reader to enjoy life with as “meaningless” or “futile” in more recent his wife for all of his “fleeting days.”2 This is translations. The KJV of Ecclesiastes 1:2 literally, “all the days of your life of hebel.” It opens with the words, “Vanity of vanities,” does not imply that the life has been badly but the CSB translates the same phrase lived; it only means that life quickly passes. as “Absolute futility.” Both translate the The word hebel has the same sense elsewhere, term hebel, which at its most basic level as in Psalm 144:4: “A human is like a breath means “a breath of air.” A single breath is [hebel]; his days are like a passing shadow.” lightweight, invisible, and transitory. The Outside of Ecclesiastes, however, hebel word hebel thus came to represent anything sometimes refers to idols, things that are that is ephemeral and has little impact on intrinsically worthless (Deut. 32:21; 1 Kings its surroundings. From that, hebel took 16:13; Jer. 14:22). But in Ecclesiastes, hebel on the meaning “futile” or “pointless.” In never means “idols.” some contexts, it can mean “absurd,” since Why does Ecclesiastes refer to so much3 focusing one’s life on something that has as hebel? The book has something of a no lasting value is absurd behavior. It also fixation on death. The point is that we and refers to outcomes that are undesirable. all our works will perish. Just as the human By analogy, we sometimes use the words body dies, our lofty buildings will crumble, “waste” or “shame” to refer to a bad situation. our empires will fall, our great deeds will be We say, “What a waste” or “That’s a shame” forgotten, and our wealth will be frittered to express dismay or sorrow.1 away. Nothing in this world is permanent; We can see examples of all these uses it is all hebel. We would be wise to take that in Ecclesiastes. In 8:14, the text states that into account. sometimes the good get what the evil deserve Some readers are offended at the claim and the evil get what the good deserve; of 1:2 that “everything is futile (hebel),” the writer calls this hebel in the sense of a thinking it implies that faith in God and “waste” or a “shame.” The book observes in service to Him is a waste of time. But in 5:10 that those who love money are never the Bible, the words “every” and “all” need

Explore the Bible 151 © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources to be understood in context; they are rarely absolute. In Ecclesiastes, it is everything under the sun that is hebel. God and the things of God are not of this world; they are by nature eternal. As such, they are not hebel. Ecclesiastes 12:13 therefore instructs its readers to “fear God and keep his commands.” This behavior has eternal value. At the same time, we must be careful to understand what Ecclesiastes is saying. Even so, our time in the adventure that is this Some readers think that when it says life is brief, and we do not get a second chance. everything is hebel (as at 1:2), it is speaking When Ecclesiastes calls the things of this only to unbelievers. They argue that when world hebel, it does not mean they have no someone becomes a Christian, things cease value whatsoever. Giving evidence of this, to be hebel. This badly misinterprets the the book even has advice on investing, book, and it can cause Christian readers saying that we should diversify investments to miss its central message. For us, as for and not be overly cautious about business everyone else, life under the sun is brief opportunities (11:1-6).4 Most people do need and fleeting. We, too, can easily waste our some measure of financial success to enjoy lives by ascribing ultimate value to things life. We must understand, however, that that are only temporary. We can be so every worldly accomplishment—academic determined to achieve success in a given achievement, wealth, power, fame, honors, area that we forget what really matters. We and so forth—is fleeting; and we should can fail to see that the most precious things never think that these things can give us we have in this world are relationships with significance. We can enjoy them knowing friends (4:9-12) and with our spouses (9:9). that they do not define us, and that we will We can wrongly think our accomplishments someday lose them all. Rather than embrace validate our lives—not realizing that all we defeatism, believers can have hope. We are do, just like our physical lives, will pass away assured that our “boast”—our identity, joy, and be forgotten (1:11-14). We can wrongly and sense of self-worth—is always in the suppose that by becoming wise and pious, cross of Christ (Gal. 6:14). we become invulnerable to life’s ills. In fact, 1. For further discussion, see Duane A. Garrett, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs, we are also doomed to perish, no matter how vol. 14, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman, 1993), 282–83. 2. All Scripture quotations are the writer’s translation. wise we become (2:14-15). Ecclesiastes does 3. See for instance, Eccl. 1:4; 2:16; 3:2,19; 5:15; 7:1,15,17,26; 8:8; 9:5-6; 12:1-7. not want us to waste our lives. 4. See Garrett, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, 337–38. Understanding all of this, we can see Duane A. Garrett is the John R. Sampey Professor of Old Testament Interpretation and Professor of Biblical Theology at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, Louisville, Kentucky. why Ecclesiastes constantly encourages and This article originally appeared in the Spring 2019 issue of Biblical Illustrator. instructs readers to enjoy their days under the sun. When it says, “There is nothing better for a person than to eat, drink, and enjoy his work” (2:24), it does not mean that we should give ourselves over to hedonism. It does, however, make the point that our days in this world are few, and that life is truly wasted if we do not take time to enjoy them. The Bible promises us resurrection and eternal life in Christ, and that is our hope and comfort.

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PHILIPPIANS; COLOSSIANS; PHILEMON

Session 1 Joy in Prayer • Philippians 1:1-11 Session 2 Joy of Adversity • Philippians 1:12-26 Session 3 Joy Through Humility • Philippians 2:1-15 Session 4 Joy in Knowing Jesus • Philippians 3:8-21 Session 5 Joy Through Peace • Philippians 4:1-9 Session 6 Joy and Contentment • Philippians 4:10-20 Session 7 The Gospel’s Power • Colossians 1:9-23 Session 8 The Gospel’s Goal • Colossians 1:24–2:3 Session 9 The Gospel’s Forgiveness • Colossians 2:4-15 Session 10 The Gospel’s Freedom • Colossians 2:16-23 Session 11 The Gospel Lived • Colossians 3:1-17 Session 12 The Gospel and Relationships • Colossians 3:18–4:6 Session 13 Restoration • Philemon 8-21 PHI/CO 154 Explore the Bible | Leader Guide © 2021 LifeWay Christian Resources