Ecclesiastes 3:11
Verse
Context
Sermons
Danny Bond
Chuck Smith
Benard Fell
Jack Hibbs
Thaddeus Barnum
Don CurrinSummary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
his time--that is, in its proper season (Psa 1:3), opposed to worldlings putting earthly pursuits out of their proper time and place (see on Ecc 3:9). set the world in their heart--given them capacities to understand the world of nature as reflecting God's wisdom in its beautiful order and times (Rom 1:19-20). "Everything" answers to "world," in the parallelism. so that--that is, but in such a manner that man only sees a portion, not the whole "from beginning to end" (Ecc 8:17; Job 26:14; Rom 11:33; Rev 15:4). PARKHURST, for "world," translates: "Yet He hath put obscurity in the midst of them," literally, "a secret," so man's mental dimness of sight as to the full mystery of God's works. So HOLDEN and WEISS. This incapacity for "finding out" (comprehending) God's work is chiefly the fruit of the fall. The worldling ever since, not knowing God's time and order, labors in vain, because out of time and place.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He hath made every thing beautiful in his time,.... That is, God has made everything; as all things in creation are made by him, for his pleasure and glory, and all well and wisely, there is a beauty in them all: so all things in providence; he upholds all things; he governs and orders all things according to the counsel of his will; some things are done immediately by him, others by instruments, and some are only permitted by him; some he does himself, some he wills to be done by others, and some he suffers to be done; but in all there is a beauty and harmony; and all are ordered, disposed, and overruled, to answer the wisest and greatest purposes; everything is done in the time in which he wills it shall; be done, and done in the time most fit and suitable for it to be done; all things before mentioned, for which there is a time, and all others: all natural things are beautiful in their season; things in summer, winter, spring, and autumn; frost and snow in winter, and heat in summer; darkness and dews in the night, and light and brightness in the day; and so in ten thousand other things: all afflictive dispensations of Providence; times of plucking up and breaking down of weeping and mourning, of losing and casting away are all necessary, and seasonable and beautiful, in their issue and consequences: prosperity and adversity, in their turns, make a beautiful checker work, and work together for good; are like Joseph's coat, of many colours, which was an emblem of those various providences which attended that good man; and were extremely beautiful, as are all the providences of God to men: and all his judgments will be, when made manifest; when he shall have performed his whole work, and the mystery of God in providence will be finished; which is like a piece of tapestry; when only viewed in parts no beauty appears in it, scarce any thing to be made of it but when all is put together, it is most beautiful and harmonious. The words may be rendered, "the beautiful One hath made all things in his time" (m); the Messiah; who, as a divine Person, is the brightness of his Father's glory; as man, is fairer than the sons, of Adam; as Mediator, is full of grace and truth; is white and ruddy, altogether lovely, exceeding precious to his people: this fair and lovely One has made all things in creation; works with his Father in the affairs of providence; and has done all things well in grace and redemption, Joh 1:2; also he hath set the world in their heart; so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end; not a sinful love of the world, and the things of it; not a criminal desire after them, and a carking care for them, whereby persons have no heart and inclination, time and leisure, to search into and find out the works of God; for though all this is in the heart of the sons of men, yet, not placed, there by the Lord: nor an opinion of living for ever; of a long time in this world, the word for "world" having the signification of perpetuity in it; so that they regard not, the work of the Lord, nor the operations of his hands, tomorrow being with them as this day, and much more abundant; but this sense meets with the same difficulty as the former. Rather the meaning is, that God hath set before the minds of men, and in them, the whole world of creatures, the whole book of nature, in which they may see and read much of the wisdom power, and goodness of God in his works; and to some he gives an inclination and desire hereunto; but yet the subject before them is so copious, there is such a world of matter presented to them, and their capacity so small, and life so short, that they cannot all their days find out the works of God, either of creation or providence, to perfection; or find out what God works, from the beginning of the world to the end of it; for, of what he has wrought, but a small portion is known by them, and they know less still what shall be done hereafter: some of God's works of providence are set on foot and but begun in the life of some men; they do not live to see them finished, and therefore cannot find them out; and others are so dark and obscure, that they are obliged to say, "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!" see Rom 1:19; and though everything is beautiful in its time, yet till they are made manifest, and all viewed together; they will not be perfectly understood, or the beauty of them seen, Rev 15:4. For God has put something "hidden", or "sealed up", in the midst of them, as it may be rendered (n), so that they cannot be perfectly known. (m) "haec omnia facit pulcher in tempore suo, i.e. Messias"; so some in Rambachius. (n) Vid. Schultens de Defect. Hod. Ling. Heb. s. 180.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have seen what changes there are in the world, and must not expect to find the world more sure to us than it has been to others. Now here Solomon shows the hand of God in all those changes; it is he that has made every creature to be that to us which it is, and therefore we must have our eye always upon him. I. We must make the best of that which is, and must believe it best for the present, and accommodate ourselves to it: He has made every thing beautiful in his time (Ecc 3:11), and therefore, while its time lasts, we must be reconciled to it: nay, we must please ourselves with the beauty of it. Note, 1. Every thing is as God has made it; it is really as he appointed it to be, not as it appears to us. 2. That which to us seems most unpleasant is yet, in its proper time, altogether becoming. Cold is as becoming in winter as heat in summer; and the night, in its turn, is a black beauty, as the day, in its turn, is a bright one. 3. There is a wonderful harmony in the divine Providence and all its disposals, so that the events of it, when they come to be considered in their relations and tendencies, together with the seasons of them, will appear very beautiful, to the glory of God and the comfort of those that trust in him. Though we see not the complete beauty of Providence, yet we shall see it, and a glorious sight it will be, when the mystery of God shall be finished. Then every thing shall appear to have been done in the most proper time and it will be the wonder of eternity, Deu 32:4. Eze 1:18. II. We must wait with patience for the full discovery of that which to us seems intricate and perplexed, acknowledging that we cannot find out the work that God makes from the beginning to the end, and therefore must judge nothing before the time. We are to believe that God has made all beautiful. Every thing is done well, as in creation, so in providence, and we shall see it when the end comes, but till then we are incompetent judges of it. While the picture is in drawing, and the house in building, we see not the beauty of either; but when the artist has put his last hand to them, and given them their finishing strokes, then all appears very good. We see but the middle of God's works, not from the beginning of them (then we should see how admirably the plan was laid in the divine counsels), nor to the end of them, which crowns the action (then we should see the product to be glorious), but we must wait till the veil be rent, and not arraign God's proceedings nor pretend to pass judgment on them. Secret things belong not to us. Those words, He has set the world in their hearts, are differently understood. 1. Some make them to be a reason why we may know more of God's works than we do; so Mr. Pemble: "God has not left himself without witness of his righteous, equal, and beautiful ordering of things, but has set it forth, to be observed in the book of the world, and this he has set in men's hearts, given man a large desire, and a power, in good measure, to comprehend and understand the history of nature, with the course of human affairs, so that, if men did but give themselves to the exact observation of things, they might in most of them perceive an admirable order and contrivance." 2. Others make them to be a reason why we do not know so much of God's works as we might; so bishop Reynolds: "We have the world so much in our hearts, are so taken up with thoughts and cares of worldly things, and are so exercised in our travail concerning them, that we have neither time nor spirit to eye God's hand in them." The world has not only gained possession of the heart, but has formed prejudices there against the beauty of God's works. III. We must be pleased with our lot in this world, and cheerfully acquiesce in the will of God concerning us, and accommodate ourselves to it. There is no certain, lasting, good in these things; what good there is in them we are here told, Ecc 3:12, Ecc 3:13. We must make a good use of them, 1. For the benefit of others. All the good there is in them is to do good with them, to our families, to our neighbours, to the poor, to the public, to its civil and religious interests. What have we our beings, capacities, and estates for, but to be some way serviceable to our generation? We mistake if we think we were born for ourselves. No; it is our business to do good; it is in doing good that there is the truest pleasure, and what is so laid out is best laid up and will turn to the best account. Observe, It is to do good in this life, which is short and uncertain; we have but a little time to be doing good in, and therefore had need to redeem time. It is in this life, where we are in a state of trial and probation for another life. Every man's life is his opportunity of doing that which will make for him in eternity. 2. For our own comfort. Let us make ourselves easy, rejoice, and enjoy the good of our labour, as it is the gift of God, and so enjoy God in it, and taste his love, return him thanks, and make him the centre of our joy, eat and drink to his glory, and serve him with joyfulness of heart, in the abundance of all things. If all things in this world be so uncertain, it is a foolish thing for men sordidly to spare for the present, that they may hoard up all for hereafter; it is better to live cheerfully and usefully upon what we have, and let tomorrow take thought for the things of itself. Grace and wisdom to do this is the gift of God, and it is a good gift, which crowns the gifts of his providential bounty. IV. We must be entirely satisfied in all the disposals of the divine Providence, both as to personal and public concerns, and bring our minds to them, because God, in all, performs the thing that is appointed for us, acts according to the counsel of his will; and we are here told, 1. That that counsel cannot be altered, and therefore it is our wisdom to make a virtue of necessity, by submitting to it. It must be as God wills: I know (and every one knows it that knows any thing of God) that whatsoever God does it shall be for ever, Ecc 3:14. He is in one mind, and who can turn him? His measures are never broken, nor is he ever put upon new counsels, but what he has purposed shall be effected, and all the world cannot defeat nor disannul it. It behoves us therefore to say, "Let it be as God wills," for, how cross soever it may be to our designs and interests, God's will is his wisdom. 2. That that counsel needs not to be altered, for there is nothing amiss in it, nothing that can be amended. If we could see it altogether at one view, we should see it so perfect that nothing can be put to it, for there is no deficiency in it, nor any thing taken from it, for there is nothing in it unnecessary, or that can be spared. As the word of God, so the works of God are every one of them perfect in its kind, and it is presumption for us either to add to them or to diminish from them, Deu 4:2. It is therefore as much our interest, as our duty, to bring our wills to the will of God. V. We must study to answer God's end in all his providences, which is in general to make us religious. God does all that men should fear before him, to convince them that there is a God above them that has a sovereign dominion over them, at whose disposal they are and all their ways, and in whose hands their times are and all events concerning them, and that therefore they ought to have their eyes ever towards him, to worship and adore him, to acknowledge him in all their ways, to be careful in every thing to please him, and afraid of offending him in any thing. God thus changes his disposals, and yet is unchangeable in his counsels, not to perplex us, much less to drive us to despair, but to teach us our duty to him and engage us to do it. That which God designs in the government of the world is the support and advancement of religion among men. VI. Whatever changes we see or feel in this world, we must acknowledge the inviolable steadiness of God's government. The sun rises and sets, the moon increases and decreases, and yet both are where they were, and their revolutions are in the same method from the beginning according to the ordinances of heaven; so it is with the events of Providence (Ecc 3:15): That which has been is now. God has not of late begun to use this method. No; things were always as mutable and uncertain as they are now, and so they will be: That which is to be has already been; and therefore we speak inconsiderately when we say, "Surely the world was never so bad as it is now," or "None ever met with such disappointments as we meet with," or "The times will never mend;" they may mend with us, and after a time to mourn there may come a time to rejoice, but that will still be liable to the common character, to the common fate. The world, as it has been, is and will be constant in inconstancy; for God requires that which is past, that is, repeats what he has formerly done and deals with us no otherwise than as he has used to deal with good men; and shall the earth be forsaken for us, or the rock removed out of his place? There has no change befallen us, nor any temptation by it overtaken us, but such as is common to men. Let us not be proud and secure in prosperity, for God may recall a past trouble, and order that to seize us and spoil our mirth (Psa 30:7); nor let us despond in adversity, for God may call back the comforts that are past, as he did to Job. We may apply this to our past actions, and our behaviour under the changes that have affected us. God will call us to account for that which is past; and therefore, when we enter into a new condition, we should judge ourselves for our sins in our former condition, prosperous or afflicted.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:11 God has made everything beautiful for its own time: We can sometimes see this beauty in our work and in the world, but many times people cannot see: God reserves for himself the understanding of how everything fits together (cp. Rom 8:22-28). • God has planted eternity, an awareness of the infinite, within each of us—enough for us to be in awe of him who is infinite and eternal, and enough to hope for eternal life after death.
Ecclesiastes 3:11
God’s Works Remain Forever
10I have seen the burden that God has laid upon the sons of men to occupy them.11He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men, yet they cannot fathom the work that God has done from beginning to end.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(The Chief End of Man - Part 2): A Mirror of the Almighty
By A.W. Tozer4.8K38:00Chief End of ManGEN 1:27PSA 8:4PSA 45:11ECC 3:11JER 29:11MAT 6:33JHN 14:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the tragic nature of the world we live in. He mentions a recent tragic incident where five children drowned in a car accident, highlighting the sorrow and pain that exists in the world. The speaker questions the purpose of life if it is only about indulging in worldly pleasures and entertainment. He then shifts the focus to the ultimate tragedy of the fall of mankind and the redemption brought through Jesus Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to worship and a critique of the lack of true worship in churches.
A Resurrection That Never Ends
By Danny Bond1.9K41:37ResurrectionECC 3:11MAT 16:211CO 15:3In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of eternity and how it is ingrained in the hearts of every human being. He explains that God has put eternity into man's heart, causing them to long for an eternal answer. However, man is perplexed as he cannot fully comprehend God's plans and purposes. The speaker emphasizes that the answers to life cannot be found on earth or through earthly experiences, but rather through a relationship with a risen Christ. The sermon also highlights the significance of Christ's death and resurrection, using the example of Jonah being in the heart of the earth for three days and nights as a foreshadowing of Jesus' sacrifice.
Vanity, Vanity
By Chuck Smith1.7K37:47VanityPSA 107:9ECC 3:11MAT 11:28MRK 5:34JHN 7:38JHN 17:3ROM 8:20In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the cyclical nature of life and the search for meaning and purpose. He emphasizes that one generation passes and another comes, and that life seems to move in repetitive cycles. The speaker acknowledges the frustration of seeking satisfaction and purpose through material possessions, as they ultimately prove empty and fleeting. He then points to Jesus as the source of true rest, peace, and satisfaction, inviting listeners to come to Him for a deeper understanding of life's meaning and purpose.
Week of Meetings 05 Be Still and Know
By Benard Fell1.5K42:56Waiting On GodGEN 27:33PSA 37:7PSA 46:10ECC 3:11MAT 6:33ROM 8:282CO 12:9In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a brother who witnessed an auctioneer trying to sell a picture. While the auctioneer spoke about the picture's virtues and value, the brother's mind was focused on God, asking for deliverance. The preacher then discusses the story of Joseph, who was forgotten by the butler for two years before being released from prison. The sermon emphasizes the importance of finding time to sit at the feet of Jesus and meditate on His word, as the world's fast pace often hinders this practice. The preacher encourages the audience to present the glorious and transcendent person of Jesus Christ to others, allowing His presence to overshadow any human element.
The Discipline of Discontentment - 22
By Jack Hibbs96056:55DisciplineECC 3:11MAL 3:1MAT 28:19LUK 19:45LUK 24:45HEB 13:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the issue of discontentment and its negative effects. He starts by highlighting the causes of fights and quarrels, which stem from our desires that battle within us. The speaker then emphasizes the importance of being content and not coveting what others have, as stated in Hebrews 13:5. He also mentions the significance of fellowship in a church and how God's body is diverse in terms of status and levels. The sermon concludes with the encouragement to be bold and confident in sharing Jesus with others, despite potential rejection or criticism.
The Holy Spirit, the Giver of Life
By Thaddeus Barnum81024:49GEN 3:24ECC 3:11JHN 1:3JHN 14:6ROM 8:22CO 3:17GAL 5:1GAL 6:14
This sermon emphasizes the importance of true freedom found in Christ, contrasting it with the false sense of freedom the world offers. It calls for a deep relationship with God through Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, highlighting the need for personal transformation and deliverance from addictions and bondages. The speaker challenges the congregation to seek true freedom in Christ and to be lights in a dark world, standing firm in faith despite the cultural challenges and moral decline.
The Slowness of God's Ways
By Don Currin68653:55ECC 3:11MIC 7:7MAT 21:22LUK 2:251CO 4:2PHP 4:11JAS 1:6
This sermon emphasizes the importance of not wasting life, urging young people to stay in the Word of God, walk in the Spirit, trust God, and guard their hearts. It highlights the revelation of dependence on God in weakness and the need for the fullness of the Holy Spirit through faith. The speaker discusses the slowness of God's ways, the need to wait on God, and the dangers of impatience and seeking worldly strategies over divine timing.
The New Temple & Two Witnesses
By Danny Bond60248:04ECC 3:11ZEC 4:6ROM 11:27GAL 3:24REV 11:1REV 11:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses a passage from the book of Revelation that describes a powerful event where believers are taken up to heaven. The preacher emphasizes the fear and awe that this event brings upon those who witness it. He also mentions an earthquake that occurs at the same time, resulting in the death of 7,000 people, possibly the royal guard of the Antichrist. The preacher then explains the significance of a measuring rod given to John in the vision, suggesting that it represents the measurement and judgment of the temple.
Our Deepest Prayer: Hallowed Be Your Name
By John Piper59945:08ECC 3:11MAT 6:9ACT 8:1EPH 1:16EPH 3:14PHP 1:9COL 1:9
This sermon emphasizes the importance of hallowing God's name and seeking His kingdom and will above all else. It delves into the significance of the Lord's Prayer, highlighting the balance between addressing personal needs and focusing on God's glory. The speaker shares personal reflections on battling sins, seeking forgiveness, and the transformative power of prayer in daily life.
The Resurrection That Never Ends
By Danny Bond55541:37ECC 3:11MAT 16:211CO 15:3In this sermon, the speaker discusses the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. He highlights how Jesus came from eternity and was born in a manger, attended by angels. Jesus performed miracles, healing the sick, opening blind eyes, and casting out demons. The speaker also mentions the song "I Can't Get No Satisfaction" by the Rolling Stones, emphasizing the universal longing for justice and fulfillment. He concludes by explaining that God has placed eternity in the hearts of humans, leading them to seek an eternal answer, which can only be found in a relationship with the risen Christ.
The Discipline of Declining Days - 6
By Jack Hibbs4711:01:54DisciplinePSA 37:25ECC 3:1ECC 3:11ROM 8:28In this sermon, the speaker encourages the audience to watch a movie called "Does anyone remember?" as it teaches valuable lessons and has a handsome actor. The speaker then references 1 Samuel 12:20, where Samuel tells the people not to fear and to serve the Lord with all their hearts. The speaker emphasizes the importance of passing on wisdom and deeper spiritual truths to younger generations. They also mention a movie called "The Gift" that explores the crisis and evaluation of one's life, which can lead to a positive change and a closer relationship with Christ. The sermon concludes with the message to continue walking in faith and not to give up, using the example of an old man who has fought the good fight and finished the race.
The New Heavens and the New Earth
By Shane Idleman1743:46EternitySurrender to GodECC 3:11MAT 25:46REV 22:3Shane Idleman delivers a powerful sermon on 'The New Heavens and the New Earth,' emphasizing the importance of understanding heaven in light of hell. He explains that eternity is stamped on our hearts, and while the Bible provides limited details about heaven, it assures believers of eternal life in God's presence. Idleman encourages the congregation to focus on storing treasures in heaven rather than earthly possessions, reminding them that the new creation will be a place of beauty, joy, and fulfillment. He concludes by urging listeners to fully surrender to God to experience true joy and peace, especially in the face of life's uncertainties.
Setting"¨ the Mind On"¨ Eternity - Part 1
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0Eternal PerspectiveSpiritual VigilancePSA 90:12ECC 3:11MAT 6:19ROM 12:22CO 4:18PHP 3:20COL 3:2HEB 12:1JAS 4:81JN 2:15Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the importance of living with an eternal perspective, urging believers to draw near to God so that earthly concerns diminish in light of eternal realities. He reflects on the fleeting impressions of natural men, illustrating how initial awakenings often fade away, leaving hearts hardened and unresponsive. M'Cheyne's journal excerpts reveal his deep longing for personal holiness and a commitment to bringing souls to Christ, highlighting the necessity of cultivating one's spirit and remaining vigilant against worldly distractions. He warns against the dangers of allowing spiritual impressions to slip away, encouraging listeners to seize the moment and seek God earnestly.
The Mystic Universe in My Back Yard
By Samuel Logan Brengle0NatureSpiritualityGEN 1:31JOB 12:7PSA 19:1PSA 104:24PSA 148:1ECC 3:11ISA 40:26MAT 6:26LUK 12:27ROM 1:20Samuel Logan Brengle reflects on the profound beauty and spiritual significance of nature found in his own back yard, contrasting it with the teachings of St. Paul, who did not emphasize the wonders of creation. He shares his journey of discovering the intimate relationship between God and nature, finding solace and healing in the simple yet profound elements of his surroundings. Brengle emphasizes that the universe is not only vast and grand but also intricately present in the small details of life, leading him to worship and gratitude for the beauty around him.
The Great Contradiction and Failure. 6:1-12
By W.J. Erdman0ECC 2:11ECC 3:11ECC 6:2ECC 6:12ECC 12:8In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the Preacher reflects on the futility and emptiness of pursuing worldly riches, honor, and pleasures, ultimately finding them to be vanity and a chasing after the wind. Despite seeking fulfillment in material success and longevity, he concludes that true satisfaction cannot be found in earthly pursuits alone. The Preacher acknowledges the limitations of human wisdom and the insatiable nature of human desires, leading to a sense of hopelessness and despair in the face of life's mysteries and uncertainties.
God and I Don't Always Agree
By Jack Hyles0JOB 42:2PSA 18:30PSA 145:17PRO 3:5ECC 3:11ISA 55:8MAT 20:1ROM 11:33Jack Hyles preaches on the topic 'God and I Don't Always Agree,' using the parable of the workers in the vineyard to illustrate how we may not always see eye to eye with God. He challenges the congregation to have faith in God's wisdom and judgment, even when we struggle to understand His ways, emphasizing the importance of trusting God's righteousness above our own understanding. Hyles candidly shares various instances from the Bible where he personally disagrees with God's actions or choices, but ultimately acknowledges that God is always right, regardless of our human perspectives.
The End of Time.
By Edward Payson0ECC 3:11MAT 24:36MAT 25:311CO 15:522CO 5:101TH 5:2HEB 9:272PE 3:10REV 10:5Edward Payson preaches on the vision of the mighty angel in Revelation 10, emphasizing the solemn declaration that there will be 'time no longer' when the mystery of God is finished. He delves into the end of time, the completion of God's design through Christ's mediatorial kingdom, the final subjugation of Christ's enemies, and the impending day of judgment. Payson urges listeners to reflect on the significance of the end of time, the separation from earthly possessions, the transition to eternity, and the necessity of being prepared to meet God in judgment.
The Gathered Meeting
By Thomas Kelly0PSA 27:8PSA 46:10ECC 3:11MAT 18:20ROM 12:51CO 12:12COL 3:161TH 5:16HEB 10:25JAS 4:8Thomas Kelly delves into the Quaker practice of group worship, describing the special moments of divine presence and unity experienced when worshippers gather in silence. He explores the concept of group mysticism, where individuals are bonded in a super-individual Life and Power, feeling the touch of God and standing on holy ground. Kelly emphasizes the importance of the Real Presence of God in gathered meetings, highlighting the ineffable, knowledge-quality, transiency, and passivity of the experience. He discusses the conditions that favor a gathered meeting, such as deep spiritual preparation, internal work of prayer, and the significance of spoken words that continue the silence and enhance the moving Presence.
Humanity
By Ernest O'Neill0ECC 3:11JHN 1:1EPH 2:10COL 1:15Ernest O'Neill discusses the concept of being part of someone else, emphasizing how we often seek autonomy and independence in life but end up feeling inadequate and insecure. He highlights the unique claim of Jesus, who declares that we are part of Him and encourages us to abide in Him for true fulfillment. O'Neill explores the biblical truth that we are created in Christ Jesus, deriving our existence and purpose from Him, and delves into the eternal nature of Jesus as the first-born of all creation, emphasizing our timeless connection to Him.
The Literatures of the Natural Man
By W.J. Erdman0ECC 1:2ECC 3:11ECC 12:13ROM 1:201CO 1:20W.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.
Inner Space
By Ernest O'Neill0PSA 42:1PSA 139:14ECC 3:11JHN 4:24JHN 14:16ROM 8:6ROM 8:161CO 2:112CO 4:18COL 1:16Ernest O'Neill discusses the prevalent dissatisfaction many feel in life despite having the freedom to make choices and pursue various avenues of fulfillment. He delves into the concept of a deeper level of consciousness beyond intellect and emotions, where individuals sense a unique essence within themselves that connects them to a higher power. Drawing from biblical references by Jesus, Moses, and Paul, he emphasizes the existence of a spiritual aspect within us that enables communication with our Creator and provides a profound connection to the universe beyond physical existence.
Proverbs 31:30
By Chuck Smith0Inner WorthTrue Beauty1SA 16:7PSA 139:14PRO 31:30ECC 3:11ISA 40:8MAT 6:11CO 13:4GAL 1:101TI 2:91PE 3:3Chuck Smith emphasizes the concept of true beauty in women, highlighting that while praise and approval are deeply desired, they should not be sought from the fleeting favor of the crowd or superficial beauty. He explains that true fulfillment comes from a life that fears the Lord, as this inner beauty is what truly attracts and earns genuine praise. Smith warns against the emptiness of seeking validation through external appearances and societal approval, encouraging women to focus on their relationship with God as the source of their worth and beauty.
Time and Space
By John Nelson Darby0EternityGod's NaturePSA 90:2PSA 139:7ECC 3:11ISA 57:15JHN 1:1ROM 11:33COL 1:17HEB 11:32PE 3:8REV 21:1John Nelson Darby explores the concepts of time and space, emphasizing that our understanding of time is limited to the present moment, 'now,' and that all events are relative to God's eternal existence. He argues that while we can measure time through events, God's nature is unchanging and eternal, existing beyond our finite comprehension. Darby also discusses the limitations of our understanding of space, asserting that we can only conceive of it in relation to bounded areas, and that true infinity cannot be fully grasped. He concludes that our knowledge of God transcends time and space, as He exists beyond our finite perceptions. The sermon highlights the importance of recognizing God's eternal nature and our relationship with Him beyond temporal constraints.
The Need of Salvation
By Charles Ewing Brown0GEN 3:17JOB 5:7PSA 24:1ECC 3:11ROM 8:19Charles Ewing Brown preaches about the universal theme of human suffering and misery, tracing it back to the earliest times and the inherent struggles faced by mankind. The sermon delves into the philosophical views of various thinkers like Schopenhauer, Thomas a Kempis, John Milton, and John Bunyan, highlighting the deep-rooted nature of human misery and the eternal quest for understanding and solutions. It emphasizes the dual nature of man, torn between the physical and spiritual realms, and the misalignment with God that leads to maladjustment and sin, ultimately causing the perpetual state of human suffering.
God's Time - Man's Time : Whose Time?
By Valsan Thampu0PSA 90:4ECC 3:11MAT 6:34LUK 4:18EPH 5:16HEB 12:1JAS 4:142PE 3:8Dr. Zac Varghese from London delves into the concepts of Chronos and Kairos time, emphasizing the importance of experiencing special moments that transcend ordinary time and lead to extraordinary encounters with God. He reflects on the speed of God's actions compared to human actions, highlighting the significance of living in the present moment and the transformative power of now. Mrs. Mini Krishnan shares insights on the immeasurability of time in Hindu mythology, illustrating how selfless work can reverse the effects of time and rejuvenate the spirit.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
his time--that is, in its proper season (Psa 1:3), opposed to worldlings putting earthly pursuits out of their proper time and place (see on Ecc 3:9). set the world in their heart--given them capacities to understand the world of nature as reflecting God's wisdom in its beautiful order and times (Rom 1:19-20). "Everything" answers to "world," in the parallelism. so that--that is, but in such a manner that man only sees a portion, not the whole "from beginning to end" (Ecc 8:17; Job 26:14; Rom 11:33; Rev 15:4). PARKHURST, for "world," translates: "Yet He hath put obscurity in the midst of them," literally, "a secret," so man's mental dimness of sight as to the full mystery of God's works. So HOLDEN and WEISS. This incapacity for "finding out" (comprehending) God's work is chiefly the fruit of the fall. The worldling ever since, not knowing God's time and order, labors in vain, because out of time and place.
John Gill Bible Commentary
He hath made every thing beautiful in his time,.... That is, God has made everything; as all things in creation are made by him, for his pleasure and glory, and all well and wisely, there is a beauty in them all: so all things in providence; he upholds all things; he governs and orders all things according to the counsel of his will; some things are done immediately by him, others by instruments, and some are only permitted by him; some he does himself, some he wills to be done by others, and some he suffers to be done; but in all there is a beauty and harmony; and all are ordered, disposed, and overruled, to answer the wisest and greatest purposes; everything is done in the time in which he wills it shall; be done, and done in the time most fit and suitable for it to be done; all things before mentioned, for which there is a time, and all others: all natural things are beautiful in their season; things in summer, winter, spring, and autumn; frost and snow in winter, and heat in summer; darkness and dews in the night, and light and brightness in the day; and so in ten thousand other things: all afflictive dispensations of Providence; times of plucking up and breaking down of weeping and mourning, of losing and casting away are all necessary, and seasonable and beautiful, in their issue and consequences: prosperity and adversity, in their turns, make a beautiful checker work, and work together for good; are like Joseph's coat, of many colours, which was an emblem of those various providences which attended that good man; and were extremely beautiful, as are all the providences of God to men: and all his judgments will be, when made manifest; when he shall have performed his whole work, and the mystery of God in providence will be finished; which is like a piece of tapestry; when only viewed in parts no beauty appears in it, scarce any thing to be made of it but when all is put together, it is most beautiful and harmonious. The words may be rendered, "the beautiful One hath made all things in his time" (m); the Messiah; who, as a divine Person, is the brightness of his Father's glory; as man, is fairer than the sons, of Adam; as Mediator, is full of grace and truth; is white and ruddy, altogether lovely, exceeding precious to his people: this fair and lovely One has made all things in creation; works with his Father in the affairs of providence; and has done all things well in grace and redemption, Joh 1:2; also he hath set the world in their heart; so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end; not a sinful love of the world, and the things of it; not a criminal desire after them, and a carking care for them, whereby persons have no heart and inclination, time and leisure, to search into and find out the works of God; for though all this is in the heart of the sons of men, yet, not placed, there by the Lord: nor an opinion of living for ever; of a long time in this world, the word for "world" having the signification of perpetuity in it; so that they regard not, the work of the Lord, nor the operations of his hands, tomorrow being with them as this day, and much more abundant; but this sense meets with the same difficulty as the former. Rather the meaning is, that God hath set before the minds of men, and in them, the whole world of creatures, the whole book of nature, in which they may see and read much of the wisdom power, and goodness of God in his works; and to some he gives an inclination and desire hereunto; but yet the subject before them is so copious, there is such a world of matter presented to them, and their capacity so small, and life so short, that they cannot all their days find out the works of God, either of creation or providence, to perfection; or find out what God works, from the beginning of the world to the end of it; for, of what he has wrought, but a small portion is known by them, and they know less still what shall be done hereafter: some of God's works of providence are set on foot and but begun in the life of some men; they do not live to see them finished, and therefore cannot find them out; and others are so dark and obscure, that they are obliged to say, "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!" see Rom 1:19; and though everything is beautiful in its time, yet till they are made manifest, and all viewed together; they will not be perfectly understood, or the beauty of them seen, Rev 15:4. For God has put something "hidden", or "sealed up", in the midst of them, as it may be rendered (n), so that they cannot be perfectly known. (m) "haec omnia facit pulcher in tempore suo, i.e. Messias"; so some in Rambachius. (n) Vid. Schultens de Defect. Hod. Ling. Heb. s. 180.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
We have seen what changes there are in the world, and must not expect to find the world more sure to us than it has been to others. Now here Solomon shows the hand of God in all those changes; it is he that has made every creature to be that to us which it is, and therefore we must have our eye always upon him. I. We must make the best of that which is, and must believe it best for the present, and accommodate ourselves to it: He has made every thing beautiful in his time (Ecc 3:11), and therefore, while its time lasts, we must be reconciled to it: nay, we must please ourselves with the beauty of it. Note, 1. Every thing is as God has made it; it is really as he appointed it to be, not as it appears to us. 2. That which to us seems most unpleasant is yet, in its proper time, altogether becoming. Cold is as becoming in winter as heat in summer; and the night, in its turn, is a black beauty, as the day, in its turn, is a bright one. 3. There is a wonderful harmony in the divine Providence and all its disposals, so that the events of it, when they come to be considered in their relations and tendencies, together with the seasons of them, will appear very beautiful, to the glory of God and the comfort of those that trust in him. Though we see not the complete beauty of Providence, yet we shall see it, and a glorious sight it will be, when the mystery of God shall be finished. Then every thing shall appear to have been done in the most proper time and it will be the wonder of eternity, Deu 32:4. Eze 1:18. II. We must wait with patience for the full discovery of that which to us seems intricate and perplexed, acknowledging that we cannot find out the work that God makes from the beginning to the end, and therefore must judge nothing before the time. We are to believe that God has made all beautiful. Every thing is done well, as in creation, so in providence, and we shall see it when the end comes, but till then we are incompetent judges of it. While the picture is in drawing, and the house in building, we see not the beauty of either; but when the artist has put his last hand to them, and given them their finishing strokes, then all appears very good. We see but the middle of God's works, not from the beginning of them (then we should see how admirably the plan was laid in the divine counsels), nor to the end of them, which crowns the action (then we should see the product to be glorious), but we must wait till the veil be rent, and not arraign God's proceedings nor pretend to pass judgment on them. Secret things belong not to us. Those words, He has set the world in their hearts, are differently understood. 1. Some make them to be a reason why we may know more of God's works than we do; so Mr. Pemble: "God has not left himself without witness of his righteous, equal, and beautiful ordering of things, but has set it forth, to be observed in the book of the world, and this he has set in men's hearts, given man a large desire, and a power, in good measure, to comprehend and understand the history of nature, with the course of human affairs, so that, if men did but give themselves to the exact observation of things, they might in most of them perceive an admirable order and contrivance." 2. Others make them to be a reason why we do not know so much of God's works as we might; so bishop Reynolds: "We have the world so much in our hearts, are so taken up with thoughts and cares of worldly things, and are so exercised in our travail concerning them, that we have neither time nor spirit to eye God's hand in them." The world has not only gained possession of the heart, but has formed prejudices there against the beauty of God's works. III. We must be pleased with our lot in this world, and cheerfully acquiesce in the will of God concerning us, and accommodate ourselves to it. There is no certain, lasting, good in these things; what good there is in them we are here told, Ecc 3:12, Ecc 3:13. We must make a good use of them, 1. For the benefit of others. All the good there is in them is to do good with them, to our families, to our neighbours, to the poor, to the public, to its civil and religious interests. What have we our beings, capacities, and estates for, but to be some way serviceable to our generation? We mistake if we think we were born for ourselves. No; it is our business to do good; it is in doing good that there is the truest pleasure, and what is so laid out is best laid up and will turn to the best account. Observe, It is to do good in this life, which is short and uncertain; we have but a little time to be doing good in, and therefore had need to redeem time. It is in this life, where we are in a state of trial and probation for another life. Every man's life is his opportunity of doing that which will make for him in eternity. 2. For our own comfort. Let us make ourselves easy, rejoice, and enjoy the good of our labour, as it is the gift of God, and so enjoy God in it, and taste his love, return him thanks, and make him the centre of our joy, eat and drink to his glory, and serve him with joyfulness of heart, in the abundance of all things. If all things in this world be so uncertain, it is a foolish thing for men sordidly to spare for the present, that they may hoard up all for hereafter; it is better to live cheerfully and usefully upon what we have, and let tomorrow take thought for the things of itself. Grace and wisdom to do this is the gift of God, and it is a good gift, which crowns the gifts of his providential bounty. IV. We must be entirely satisfied in all the disposals of the divine Providence, both as to personal and public concerns, and bring our minds to them, because God, in all, performs the thing that is appointed for us, acts according to the counsel of his will; and we are here told, 1. That that counsel cannot be altered, and therefore it is our wisdom to make a virtue of necessity, by submitting to it. It must be as God wills: I know (and every one knows it that knows any thing of God) that whatsoever God does it shall be for ever, Ecc 3:14. He is in one mind, and who can turn him? His measures are never broken, nor is he ever put upon new counsels, but what he has purposed shall be effected, and all the world cannot defeat nor disannul it. It behoves us therefore to say, "Let it be as God wills," for, how cross soever it may be to our designs and interests, God's will is his wisdom. 2. That that counsel needs not to be altered, for there is nothing amiss in it, nothing that can be amended. If we could see it altogether at one view, we should see it so perfect that nothing can be put to it, for there is no deficiency in it, nor any thing taken from it, for there is nothing in it unnecessary, or that can be spared. As the word of God, so the works of God are every one of them perfect in its kind, and it is presumption for us either to add to them or to diminish from them, Deu 4:2. It is therefore as much our interest, as our duty, to bring our wills to the will of God. V. We must study to answer God's end in all his providences, which is in general to make us religious. God does all that men should fear before him, to convince them that there is a God above them that has a sovereign dominion over them, at whose disposal they are and all their ways, and in whose hands their times are and all events concerning them, and that therefore they ought to have their eyes ever towards him, to worship and adore him, to acknowledge him in all their ways, to be careful in every thing to please him, and afraid of offending him in any thing. God thus changes his disposals, and yet is unchangeable in his counsels, not to perplex us, much less to drive us to despair, but to teach us our duty to him and engage us to do it. That which God designs in the government of the world is the support and advancement of religion among men. VI. Whatever changes we see or feel in this world, we must acknowledge the inviolable steadiness of God's government. The sun rises and sets, the moon increases and decreases, and yet both are where they were, and their revolutions are in the same method from the beginning according to the ordinances of heaven; so it is with the events of Providence (Ecc 3:15): That which has been is now. God has not of late begun to use this method. No; things were always as mutable and uncertain as they are now, and so they will be: That which is to be has already been; and therefore we speak inconsiderately when we say, "Surely the world was never so bad as it is now," or "None ever met with such disappointments as we meet with," or "The times will never mend;" they may mend with us, and after a time to mourn there may come a time to rejoice, but that will still be liable to the common character, to the common fate. The world, as it has been, is and will be constant in inconstancy; for God requires that which is past, that is, repeats what he has formerly done and deals with us no otherwise than as he has used to deal with good men; and shall the earth be forsaken for us, or the rock removed out of his place? There has no change befallen us, nor any temptation by it overtaken us, but such as is common to men. Let us not be proud and secure in prosperity, for God may recall a past trouble, and order that to seize us and spoil our mirth (Psa 30:7); nor let us despond in adversity, for God may call back the comforts that are past, as he did to Job. We may apply this to our past actions, and our behaviour under the changes that have affected us. God will call us to account for that which is past; and therefore, when we enter into a new condition, we should judge ourselves for our sins in our former condition, prosperous or afflicted.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:11 God has made everything beautiful for its own time: We can sometimes see this beauty in our work and in the world, but many times people cannot see: God reserves for himself the understanding of how everything fits together (cp. Rom 8:22-28). • God has planted eternity, an awareness of the infinite, within each of us—enough for us to be in awe of him who is infinite and eternal, and enough to hope for eternal life after death.