In this sermon, the preacher shares a story of a man who had forgotten his purpose in life and became consumed by worldly desires. The man had a happy life with a wealthy wife and children, but tragedy struck when a flood destroyed everything he had. This event served as a wake-up call for the man to realize the emptiness of worldly pursuits and the importance of seeking God's love. The preacher also shares his personal journey of how he, as a Jewish person, came to know Christ.

Francis Schaeffer addresses the pervasive influence of materialism and relativism in both Western and Eastern thought, arguing that these worldviews lead to a lack of meaning and moral clarity. He highlights the tension faced by those who reject a Christian perspective, as they grapple with the absurdity of existence while still seeking purpose and significance. Schaeffer critiques the reliance on experience over reason in modern society, suggesting that this shift has resulted in a moral vacuum where absolutes are abandoned. He warns that without a foundation in truth, humanity is left with a chaotic and meaningless existence, ultimately calling for a return to the Christian worldview for true answers to life's dilemmas.

In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of true lasting satisfaction and joy. He emphasizes that satisfaction and enjoyment come from the resources of God alone, as stated in verse 24. The preacher addresses the challenges of life, including the fact that death is inevitable for everyone, regardless of their accomplishments or circumstances. Additionally, he highlights the reality that others will inherit what we have done in our lives. The preacher concludes by presenting three principles that should be applied: enjoying the good in our labor, recognizing that God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who are good in His sight, and understanding that the pursuits of sinners are ultimately in vain.

Stephen Kaung emphasizes the importance of pursuing a higher goal in life, drawing from Philippians 3:14, where Paul speaks of striving for the heavenly prize in Christ Jesus. He contrasts earthly pursuits such as wealth, fame, and pleasure with the ultimate fulfillment found in knowing Christ, echoing King Solomon's conclusion in Ecclesiastes that all is vanity without God. Kaung encourages believers to actively pursue a relationship with Christ, highlighting that true passion comes from the love of Christ that compels us to live for Him. He warns against complacency and urges the congregation to prepare for the Lord's return by living a life that reflects their commitment to God. The sermon concludes with a call to pursue Christ with passion, reminding the audience of the eternal significance of their choices.

This sermon delves into the loss of absolutes in culture, leading to a search for wonder and the impact of materialism on society. It explores the existential questions arising from a worldview devoid of spiritual meaning, the pursuit of pleasure as a substitute for purpose, and the emptiness of hedonism. The narrative includes anecdotes and philosophical reflections on the consequences of rejecting God and the search for meaning in a world without absolutes.

In this sermon, the preacher talks about how people focus so much on their physical appearance and worldly possessions, but neglect their spiritual well-being. He emphasizes the importance of living for the eternal world rather than the temporary pleasures of this life. The preacher also highlights the need to take care of our souls just as we take care of our bodies. He shares stories and examples to illustrate the emptiness of pursuing worldly success and fame, and encourages the audience to prioritize their relationship with Jesus, who truly values and cares for them.

This sermon delves into the book of Ecclesiastes, exploring the wisdom and insights shared by Solomon, highlighting the emptiness of pursuing worldly pleasures and the importance of seeking God's wisdom and guidance. It emphasizes the need for humility, the danger of relying solely on human intelligence, and the significance of listening to God, receiving correction, and living with integrity. The sermon encourages a focus on eternal values, the joy of wisdom, and the impact of our actions on others.

David Daniel emphasizes the importance of having a heavenly perspective versus a life lived solely under the sun, as illustrated through the teachings of Ecclesiastes. He reflects on King Solomon's observations about the vanity of earthly pursuits and the futility of living without considering eternal significance. Daniel encourages the congregation to evaluate their lives and focus on spiritual matters, reminding them that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with Christ. He warns against being ensnared by worldly philosophies and urges believers to seek a higher calling in their service to God and one another. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to live for eternal values rather than temporary gains.

Thomas a Kempis preaches on the importance of imitating the life and habits of Jesus Christ to be truly enlightened and free from blindness of heart. He emphasizes that understanding the words of Christ requires patterning one's entire life after Him, rather than just hearing the Gospel. Kempis highlights that true wisdom lies in seeking the kingdom of heaven through contempt of the world, warning against vanity in pursuing worldly riches, honor, and desires of the flesh.

G. Campbell Morgan explores the profound message of Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the folly of living life without a true relationship with God. He highlights the misconceptions about God that lead to a life filled with cynicism, fatalism, and hopelessness, ultimately revealing that true wisdom lies in fearing God and keeping His commandments. Morgan contrasts the wisdom of Proverbs with the experiences of the preacher in Ecclesiastes, illustrating how a godless life results in vanity and despair. The sermon concludes with the assertion that acknowledging God in all aspects of life unlocks true fulfillment and purpose.

W.J. Erdman preaches on the book of Ecclesiastes, where the Preacher, a wise man under the sun, seeks to answer the age-old question of the chief good in life and the true purpose of labor. The Preacher, viewed as a natural man, conducts experiments and observations to find meaning in a world filled with vanity and vexation of spirit. Despite his wisdom and seriousness, he grapples with despair and the mysteries of life, ultimately concluding that the true gain lies in fearing God and keeping His commandments.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes that the rod of affliction serves as a powerful teacher, urging believers to detach their affections from worldly comforts and to recognize their ultimate emptiness and vanity. He explains that true contentment and fulfillment can only be found in a living relationship with Jesus, as worldly pleasures and honors are fleeting and unreliable. The sermon calls for a deep spiritual mortification of desires that distract from a focus on Christ.

Thomas Brooks warns against the dangers of worldliness and earthly-mindedness among professing Christians, likening them to worshipers of the golden calf. He emphasizes that the allure of the world is deceptive and ultimately leads to spiritual decay, as true fulfillment can only be found in God. Brooks illustrates that an inordinate love for worldly things can sever one's communion with God, urging believers to seek a greater glory rather than being captivated by vanity. He reminds us that the things of this world are ultimately worthless in the eyes of eternity, and that true richness comes from a relationship with God.

C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that true comfort for Christians cannot be found in worldly pleasures, which he refers to as vanity. He acknowledges that while ungodly individuals may seek happiness in earthly delights, Christians are called to seek joy in a higher, spiritual realm. Spurgeon illustrates this with the story of a godly wife who, recognizing her husband's spiritual state, strives to make his earthly life as pleasant as possible. He warns that indulging in vain amusements can lead to spiritual starvation and vulnerability to temptation. The sermon concludes with a heartfelt plea for divine assistance to turn away from vanity and lies.

R.A. Torrey emphasizes the grave question of what it profits a person to gain the world while losing their soul, urging listeners to reflect on the futility of worldly pursuits that ultimately do not satisfy or last. He contrasts the temporary allure of wealth, honor, and pleasure with the eternal value of the soul, arguing that many sacrifice their true selves for fleeting gains. Torrey illustrates that no one truly possesses the whole world, and even the richest and most honored individuals find dissatisfaction and eventual loss. He warns against the deceptive offers of Satan, who tempts individuals with worldly gains at the cost of their eternal souls. Ultimately, Torrey calls for a choice between the transient nature of the world and the everlasting life offered by Jesus Christ.

Chuck Smith explores the theme of vanity in life as expressed in Ecclesiastes 1:1, emphasizing Solomon's futile search for meaning through wealth, knowledge, and pleasure. Despite his indulgences, Solomon ultimately found despair and emptiness, revealing that true fulfillment cannot be found in earthly pursuits. Smith highlights that God created us with a need for spiritual fulfillment, which cannot be satisfied by material gains or achievements. The sermon concludes with the assertion that the answer to our emptiness lies in a relationship with God, as indicated in John 7:37-38.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound emptiness of worldly pursuits, echoing Solomon's declaration that all is vanity. He illustrates that the pleasures and achievements of this life are fleeting and ultimately unsatisfying, akin to a shadow that quickly fades away. Brooks urges listeners to recognize the transient nature of earthly joys and the futility of seeking fulfillment in them, as they are ultimately deceptive and lead to disappointment. He draws parallels between worldly allurements and the forbidden fruit, highlighting their superficial appeal but deadly consequences. The sermon calls for a deeper understanding of true value beyond the vanity of this world.

John Chrysostom preaches about the significance of the Old Covenant's ordinances and the transition to the New Covenant through Christ as the High Priest of good things. He emphasizes the superiority of Christ's sacrifice over the blood of animals, highlighting the purification of the soul through Christ's Blood. Chrysostom warns against the dangers of dead works and the defilement they bring, urging believers to serve the Living God with a pure conscience. He addresses the seriousness of sin, particularly the sin of covetousness, and the need for repentance and mourning to attain true joy and the Kingdom of Heaven.

W.J. Erdman preaches on how Ecclesiastes is a book that resonates with the natural man, as seen in the literature, poetry, ethics, and philosophies of various cultures throughout history. The questions, doubts, and reflections on the vanity of life expressed in Ecclesiastes are universal themes that echo in the hearts of people across different nations and time periods. The search for meaning, the struggle with despair, and the pursuit of the unknowable are all captured in the musings of Ecclesiastes, mirroring the sentiments found in the works of poets and thinkers worldwide.

John Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of living a life separate from the ways of the world, urging believers to walk in the path of God and not in the vanity of their minds like the Gentiles. He highlights the dangers of being darkened in understanding and being consumed by earthly pursuits that have no eternal value. Chrysostom contrasts the emptiness of worldly desires with the true purpose of honoring God and living in His light, warning against idolizing material things or false gods. He encourages believers to break free from the slavery of sin and to focus on what truly matters - pleasing God and avoiding the snares of the enemy.

John Chrysostom preaches about the signs of the end times as described in Matthew 24, warning the people to be prepared for the tribulations and deceptions that will come. He emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to Christ amidst the chaos and false teachings, urging believers to trust in God's ultimate judgment and justice. Chrysostom highlights the severity of the impending calamities, pointing to the historical context of Jerusalem's destruction as a foreshadowing of the final judgment. He encourages the listeners to prioritize their eternal salvation over worldly pursuits, reminding them of the fleeting nature of earthly riches and honors.

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound value of the little that the righteous possess compared to the vast wealth of the wicked, illustrating that true contentment and peace come from God's love and provision. He contrasts the humble satisfaction of a godly man, who finds joy in even the smallest mercies, with the endless dissatisfaction of the wicked, who are ensnared by their desires for worldly riches. Brooks highlights that the righteous man's contentment is rooted in gratitude and a deep awareness of God's care, while the pursuit of wealth leads to pain and unrest. Ultimately, he concludes that a simple meal enjoyed in peace is far more fulfilling than the riches of the wicked, which are fraught with troubles.

Harriet N. Cook reflects on the story of Solomon in the Bible, emphasizing his wisdom and wealth granted by God. Despite his riches and treasures, Solomon acknowledges the emptiness and lack of true happiness in material possessions, highlighting the importance of having the true love of God in our hearts for genuine contentment. Cook draws parallels between the beauty of peacocks and the superficiality of worldly beauty, reminding listeners that true beauty lies in a pure and lovely heart in the sight of God.

A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of living a life directed towards God, rather than wasting efforts on superficial pursuits that ultimately lead to emptiness. He illustrates this through the metaphor of a steward who builds a wall around a demolished castle, symbolizing how many invest in the outward forms of life while neglecting true value. Simpson urges listeners to find their true purpose in God, discover their own worth, and engage in meaningful work that contributes to the greater good. He highlights that true satisfaction comes from a relationship with God, which fills the void that worldly pursuits cannot. The sermon calls for a return to God, self-discovery, and a commitment to impactful living.

Thomas Brooks warns against the allure of honors, riches, and pleasures, describing them as deceptive idols that people worship, sacrificing their true potential and devotion to God. He emphasizes that these pursuits are ultimately empty and insubstantial, akin to shadows and dreams, leading individuals into a false sense of security. Brooks cautions that these charms of Satan can lull people into complacency, resulting in eternal consequences after death. The sermon serves as a stark reminder of the vanity of worldly desires and the importance of seeking true substance in faith.