- Home
- Bible
- Ecclesiastes
- Chapter 12
- Verse 12
Ecclesiastes 12:7
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
dust--the dust-formed body. spirit--surviving the body; implying its immortality (Ecc 3:11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was,.... The body, which is made of dust, and is no other in its present state than dust refined and enlivened; and when the above things take place, mentioned in Ecc 12:6, or at death, it returns to its original earth; it becomes immediately a clod of earth, a lifeless lump of clay, and is then buried in the earth, where it rots, corrupts, and turns into it; which shows the frailty of man, and may serve to humble his pride, as well as proves that death is not an annihilation even of the body; see Gen 3:19; and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it; from whom it is, by whom it is created, who puts it into the bodies of men, as a deposit urn they are entrusted with, and are accountable for, and should be concerned for the safety and salvation of it; this was originally breathed into man at his first creation, and is now formed within him by the Lord; hence he is called the God of the spirits of all flesh; see Gen 2:4. Now at death the soul, or spirit of man, returns to God; which if understood of the souls of men in general, it means that at death they return to God the Judge of all, who passes sentence on them, and orders those that are good to the mansions of bliss and happiness, and those that are evil to hell and destruction. So the Targum adds, "that it may stand in judgment before the Lord;'' or if only of the souls of good men, the sense is, that they then return to God, not only as their Creator, but as their covenant God and Father, to enjoy his presence evermore; and to Christ their Redeemer, to be for ever with him, than which nothing is better and more desirable; this shows that the soul is immortal, and dies not with the body, nor sleeps in the grave with it, but is immediately with God. Agreeably to all this Aristotle (w) says, the mind, or soul, alone enters from without, (from heaven, from God there,) and only is divine; and to the same purpose are the words of Phocylides (x), "the body we have of the earth, and we all being resolved into it become dust, but the air or heaven receives the spirit.'' And still more agreeably to the sentiment of the wise man here, another Heathen (y) writer observes, that the ancients were of opinion that souls are given of God, and are again returned unto him after death. (w) De Generat. Animal. l. 2. c. 3. (x) , &c. Poem. Admon. v. 102, 103. So Lucretius l. 2. "cedit item retro de terra", &c. (y) Macrob. Saturnal. l. I. c. 10.
Ecclesiastes 12:7
Remember Your Creator
6Remember Him before the silver cord is snapped and the golden bowl is crushed, before the pitcher is shattered at the spring and the wheel is broken at the well, 7before the dust returns to the ground from which it came and the spirit returns to God who gave it.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(John - Part 42): Life After Death - the Death and Raising of Lazarus
By A.W. Tozer4.0K53:36ExpositionalPSA 90:12ECC 12:7ISA 65:17LUK 16:9ROM 8:181TI 6:191JN 3:2The video is a summary of a sermon by a German theologian named von Hügel. He emphasizes that the only things that seem to move people's emotions in this world are worldly things like business, sports, travel, and pleasure. However, von Hügel argues that the only things worthy of moving our emotions are those related to the world to come, to eternity. He encourages the audience to use their money wisely, knowing that even small acts of generosity can have eternal significance. Lastly, von Hügel reminds the listeners that the knowledge of life after death can help us endure difficult times.
Death, and After This, the Judgment
By Rolfe Barnard81854:24ECC 12:7MAT 6:332CO 2:151TH 5:3HEB 9:272PE 3:10REV 20:14In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the certainty of death and the judgment that follows. He mentions significant events in recent history, such as the televised funeral services of President John F. Kennedy and civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. These events serve as reminders of the inevitability of death and the need for salvation. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus died because all men must die and face judgment. He urges the audience to turn to Christ for salvation and asks those who have a reasonable hope in Christ to affirm their faith.
Why Are We Alive?
By Ernest O'Neill56832:49PSA 90:10ECC 12:7MAT 6:19JHN 1:1JHN 10:30JHN 14:6ROM 8:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus as the Son of God. He encourages the audience to intellectually conclude that Jesus is God's son and to then seek out what he wants them to do. The speaker suggests that if Jesus is indeed the Son of God, it is only logical to follow his teachings. He also highlights the brevity of human life and the need to contemplate the purpose of existence.
Death and Judgment
By Rolfe Barnard3153:25SalvationDeathJudgmentECC 12:7MRK 9:43JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ACT 4:12ROM 3:232CO 5:101TH 4:14HEB 9:27REV 20:14Rolfe Barnard's sermon 'Death and Judgment' emphasizes the inevitability of death and the subsequent judgment that every person must face. He reflects on how recent televised funerals have momentarily captured the world's attention to this reality, yet people quickly return to their daily lives, ignoring the truth that 'it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.' Barnard passionately urges listeners to recognize their need for Christ, as He is the only hope against the finality of death and the terror of judgment. He recounts personal experiences with death and the urgency of repentance, imploring the congregation to seek salvation before it's too late.
The Human Spirit
By Ernest O'Neill0GEN 2:7PSA 139:14ECC 12:7JHN 4:24ROM 8:161CO 2:112CO 4:16GAL 5:161TH 5:23HEB 4:12Ernest O'Neill delves into the topic 'How Were You Made?' by exploring the three elements of human nature as described in the Bible. Contrary to the common belief of body and soul, the Bible reveals that humans are made up of body, breath (spirit), and soul. The neglect of the spiritual aspect leads to a shallow existence, described as 'hollow men' by T.S. Eliot, resulting in inner emptiness and a sense of something missing in life. O'Neill challenges the prevailing dichotomy of human nature and emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and nurturing the spirit within us for a more fulfilling life.
Eschatology: End Times
By Greg Herrick0ECC 12:7ROM 8:111CO 15:222CO 5:10EPH 2:1EPH 4:171TH 4:13HEB 4:15HEB 9:27REV 21:8Greg Herrick preaches about the theological concept of eschatology, which refers to the study of final things in the Bible. He delves into personal eschatology, discussing physical death, the intermediate state, and spiritual death. Herrick also explores the concept of the second death for those who reject God. He covers the existential problem of death and the Christian hope of resurrection and life with God. Additionally, he addresses corporate eschatology, focusing on the return of Christ, the certainty of His return, the nature of His return, and the final judgment of all people.
The Resurrection of the Dead
By Athenagoras0ECC 12:7ROM 2:6ROM 14:121CO 15:522CO 5:10Athenagoras argues that the resurrection is necessary for justice to prevail, as it would be unjust for the soul alone to be judged for actions that involved both the soul and body. He highlights the inequality and lack of equity if the body and soul are not both included in the judgment and rewards or punishments for deeds done in life. Athenagoras questions the fairness of attributing virtues or vices solely to the soul when they are experienced and influenced by the body as well. He emphasizes that for true justice to be served, both the body and soul must be considered in the judgment after death.
Of the Immortality of the Soul.
By John Gill0Divine JusticeImmortality of the SoulPSA 31:5ECC 12:7MAT 10:28LUK 12:4REV 6:9John Gill emphasizes the immortality of the soul, asserting that while the body may perish, the soul continues to exist eternally, returning to God who created it. He argues that the soul's nature, being spiritual and immaterial, distinguishes it from the body, which is mortal and subject to decay. Gill supports his claims with scriptural references, highlighting that the soul is not only capable of moral and spiritual death due to sin but also faces eternal consequences in the afterlife. He concludes that the soul's immortality is essential for understanding divine justice and the fulfillment of God's promises to humanity.
Man: His Creation
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0GEN 1:1ECC 12:7MAT 10:28MAT 11:27MRK 8:36JHN 3:31CO 2:122CO 4:16COL 1:161TH 5:23HEB 4:12HEB 11:3Lewis Sperry Chafer discusses the importance of understanding the origin of man and all existing things, emphasizing that God has revealed these facts in the Bible, which becomes real to those saved through Christ. The division among men lies in whether God is real enough to be accepted as the Creator. The Scriptures teach that man, created in God's image, is the conclusion of all creation, with a two-fold distinction of material and immaterial aspects. The sermon delves into the distinctions between the soul and spirit of man, presenting three main theories on their origin: Pre-existence, Creation, and Traducian theories.
Of the Death of the Body.
By John Gill0Hope in Eternal LifeThe Nature of DeathGEN 3:19JOB 14:5ECC 12:7LUK 20:36ROM 6:232CO 5:1PHP 1:231TH 4:14HEB 9:27JAS 2:26John Gill addresses the concept of physical death, distinguishing it from spiritual death and emphasizing that it is a separation of the soul and body. He explores the nature of death, its inevitability for all humans regardless of status or age, and the divine sovereignty behind it. Gill explains that while death is a consequence of sin, it is also a necessary transition for believers, leading them to eternal life with Christ. He reassures that death, though formidable, is ultimately a blessing for the righteous, as it frees them from sin and sorrow.
The Word of Contentment
By A.W. Pink0ContentmentSurrender to GodPSA 23:4ECC 12:7LUK 23:46JHN 10:29ROM 12:1PHP 4:191TH 5:232TI 1:12HEB 10:311JN 3:1A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound significance of Jesus' final words on the cross, 'Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit.' This act of surrender reflects Christ's perfect faith, confidence, and love towards the Father, showcasing a deep communion that was restored after a period of darkness. Pink highlights the contrast between being in the hands of sinful men and the security found in the Father's hands, illustrating the eternal safety of believers. He encourages Christians to yield their spirits to God, just as Christ did, and to find comfort in the assurance of God's love and care. Ultimately, Pink calls for a life of submission to God, leading to a peaceful death in His presence.
Dirt Handsomely Fashioned
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual DisciplineBody and SoulGEN 2:7PSA 103:14ECC 12:7MAT 6:19ROM 12:11CO 9:272CO 4:161TI 4:8JAS 1:101PE 1:24Thomas Brooks emphasizes that our physical bodies, formed from dust, are merely 'dirt handsomely fashioned.' He warns against the tendency to pamper the body while neglecting the soul, highlighting the danger of adorning ourselves externally while our inner selves lack grace and holiness. Brooks calls for a disciplined approach to life, urging believers to prioritize spiritual well-being over physical appearance.
Smoking Spiritualized
By Ralph Erskine0PSA 103:15PSA 141:2ECC 12:7ISA 64:1JAS 4:14Ralph Erskine delivers a powerful sermon using the metaphor of smoking tobacco to reflect on the transient nature of life, the vanity of worldly pursuits, the reminder of sin and mortality, and the ultimate return to dust. He encourages the congregation to contemplate on their spiritual state and the need for divine inspiration to ignite their hearts. Through tobacco smoking, Erskine draws parallels to the deeper spiritual truths of life, faith, and the promises of God.
Amiable Instincts Not Holiness.
By Edward Payson0ECC 12:7MAT 22:37ROM 12:2GAL 5:22PHP 2:3COL 3:121TH 5:231PE 1:15Edward Payson preaches about the importance of sanctification, focusing on the need for the sanctification of the animal soul, which includes affections like parental love, compassion, and natural temper. He explains that these affections, though present in both humans and animals, need to be sanctified by God to be considered holy and pleasing to Him. Payson emphasizes that sanctification involves having right motives, directing affections towards God, and being in subordination to His will. He warns against relying on natural goodness or amiable tempers for salvation, as true holiness comes from God's grace and transforming work in the heart.
They Trample That Matchless Jewel
By Thomas Brooks0Eternal SecurityValue of the SoulPRO 4:23ECC 12:7MAT 10:28MAT 16:26MRK 8:36LUK 12:202CO 5:10JAS 1:121PE 1:9REV 20:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the immense value of the soul, describing it as a precious and immortal jewel that is capable of union and communion with God. He warns that the eternal safety of one's soul is the most critical concern in life, asserting that if the soul is secure, everything else is secure. Brooks laments that many people neglect this vital aspect of their existence, treating their souls with indifference and ultimately risking their eternal fate. He cautions that a time will come when those who have disregarded their souls will realize the grave loss of God, Christ, and heaven. The sermon serves as a poignant reminder to prioritize the well-being of our souls above all else.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
dust--the dust-formed body. spirit--surviving the body; implying its immortality (Ecc 3:11).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was,.... The body, which is made of dust, and is no other in its present state than dust refined and enlivened; and when the above things take place, mentioned in Ecc 12:6, or at death, it returns to its original earth; it becomes immediately a clod of earth, a lifeless lump of clay, and is then buried in the earth, where it rots, corrupts, and turns into it; which shows the frailty of man, and may serve to humble his pride, as well as proves that death is not an annihilation even of the body; see Gen 3:19; and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it; from whom it is, by whom it is created, who puts it into the bodies of men, as a deposit urn they are entrusted with, and are accountable for, and should be concerned for the safety and salvation of it; this was originally breathed into man at his first creation, and is now formed within him by the Lord; hence he is called the God of the spirits of all flesh; see Gen 2:4. Now at death the soul, or spirit of man, returns to God; which if understood of the souls of men in general, it means that at death they return to God the Judge of all, who passes sentence on them, and orders those that are good to the mansions of bliss and happiness, and those that are evil to hell and destruction. So the Targum adds, "that it may stand in judgment before the Lord;'' or if only of the souls of good men, the sense is, that they then return to God, not only as their Creator, but as their covenant God and Father, to enjoy his presence evermore; and to Christ their Redeemer, to be for ever with him, than which nothing is better and more desirable; this shows that the soul is immortal, and dies not with the body, nor sleeps in the grave with it, but is immediately with God. Agreeably to all this Aristotle (w) says, the mind, or soul, alone enters from without, (from heaven, from God there,) and only is divine; and to the same purpose are the words of Phocylides (x), "the body we have of the earth, and we all being resolved into it become dust, but the air or heaven receives the spirit.'' And still more agreeably to the sentiment of the wise man here, another Heathen (y) writer observes, that the ancients were of opinion that souls are given of God, and are again returned unto him after death. (w) De Generat. Animal. l. 2. c. 3. (x) , &c. Poem. Admon. v. 102, 103. So Lucretius l. 2. "cedit item retro de terra", &c. (y) Macrob. Saturnal. l. I. c. 10.