Ecclesiastes1:1-2
The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem. Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity. (KJV)
One of the classical thoughts that will pervade the entire book of Ecclesiastes is that of the contrast between material and materialism. We as believers in Christ have no small struggle of living within a material world while attempting to not be overcome by material things. It is not a thing that is defined by frugality as opposed to opulence. Frugality may well be a symptom of materialism.
The issue is whether or not the things of this material world have become the focus and measure of our lives. It could be material possessions, it could be athletics, it could be hobbies or many other interests that supplant our stewardship of life toward God.
Solomon begins this book by a severe attack upon the enemy of materialism. It is the issue that often good things can be the enemy of the best things. I hope that you will join us on Sunday mornings for this very helpful study of the book of Ecclesiastes.
