Ecclesiastes 8:11
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
"Who is like the wise? and who understandeth the interpretation of things? The wisdom of a man maketh his face bright, and the rudeness of his face is changed." Unlike this saying: "Who is like the wise?" are the formulas חכם מי, Hos 14:9, Jer 11:11, Psa 107:43, which are compared by Hitzig and others. "Who is like the wise?" means: Who is equal to him? and this question, after the scheme מי־כמכה, Exo 15:11, presents him as one who has not his like among men. Instead of כּה the word כּחכם might be used, after לחכם, Ecc 2:16, etc. The syncope is, as at Eze 40:25, omitted, which frequently occurs, particularly in the more modern books, Eze 47:22; Ch2 10:7; Ch2 25:10; Ch2 29:27; Neh 9:19; Neh 12:38. The regular giving of Dagesh to כ after מי, with Jethib, not Mahpach, is as at Ecc 8:7 after כּי; Jethib is a disjunctive. The second question is not כּיודע, but יודע וּמי, and thus does not mean: who is like the man of understanding, but: who understands, viz., as the wise man does; thus it characterizes the incomparably excellent as such. Many interpreters (Oetinger, Ewald, Hitz., Heiligst., Burg., Elst., Zckl.) persuade themselves that דּבר פּשׁר is meant of the understanding of the proverb, 8b. The absence of the art., says Hitzig, does not mislead us: of a proverb, viz., the following; but in this manner determinate ideas may be made from all indeterminate ones. Rightly, Gesenius: explicationem ullius rei; better, as at Ecc 7:8 : cujusvis rei. Ginsburg compares נבון דּבר, Sa1 16:18, which, however, does not mean him who has the knowledge of things, but who is well acquainted with words. It is true that here also the chief idea פּשׁר first leads to the meaning verbum (according to which the lxx, Jer., the Targ., and Syr. translate; the Venet.: ἑρμηνείαν λόγου); but since the unfolding or explaining (pēshěr) refers to the actual contents of the thing spoken, verbi and rei coincide. The wise man knows how to explain difficult things, to unfold mysterious things; in short, he understands how to go to the foundation of things.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The reason why the wicked persevere in sin: God's delay in judgment (Mat 24:48-51; Pe2 3:8-9). "They see not the smoke of the pit, therefore they dread not the fire" [SOUTH], (Psa 55:19). Joab's escape from the punishment of his murder of Abner, so far from "leading him to repentance," as it ought (Rom 2:4), led him to the additional murder of Amasa.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily,.... Any evil work done by magistrates, or others, against which the wrath of God is revealed from heaven, and is threatened with his vengeance; the decree is gone forth, the sentence is passed, God is determined upon punishment; but there is a delay of it, he exercises patience and longsuffering to answer some end of his, both towards his own people and the wicked; as well as to display some of his own perfections; but because so it is, the judgment comes not at once; therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil; or their "heart is full to do evil" (n); they have not only a fulness of sin in them naturally as is in every man's heart; but they are filled with resolution, boldness, and courage, to commit sin, promising themselves impurity from the seeming delay of justice; such an abuse do they make of the patience and forbearance of God; they become more and more hardened in sin and bent upon the commission of it. (n) "plenum ad faciendum malum", Pagninus, Montanus; "praegnano ad faciendum malum", Gussetius, p. 469.
Ecclesiastes 8:11
Fear God
10Then too, I saw the burial of the wicked who used to go in and out of the holy place, and they were praised in the city where they had done so. This too is futile.11When the sentence for a crime is not speedily executed, the hearts of men become fully set on doing evil.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
False Conclusions
By Chuck Smith2.1K39:43Christian LifeGEN 6:3PSA 50:1PSA 50:21ECC 8:11In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the patience of God and how it relates to the presence of evil in the world. He references Ecclesiastes 8:11, where Solomon declares that because punishment for evil deeds is not executed immediately, people are emboldened to continue doing evil. The speaker ponders the extent of God's patience in the face of a morally declining world and wonders when God will intervene. He also mentions the story of Noah and how Noah preached righteousness to the people, warning them of the impending judgment of God. The sermon emphasizes the importance of not being deceived by the apparent lack of consequences for evil actions, as God is aware and will eventually bring judgment.
The Secrets of the Heart
By Chuck Smith1.8K32:51SecretsPSA 139:1PRO 24:10ECC 8:11EZK 3:18ROM 9:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of standing before God's judgment seat and giving an account of our actions. He highlights that as Christians, we will face the judgment seat of Christ, where all secrets will be revealed. The preacher urges listeners to consider if they are fulfilling their responsibilities of sharing the love and truth of God with others. He emphasizes the need to share the gospel of God's love and forgiveness with a lost and dying world, warning that failing to do so may result in the blood of those who die in their sins being required at our hands. The preacher also cautions against mistaking God's patience and longsuffering for ignorance or lack of judgment, reminding listeners that God sees and knows all.
Faith vs. Unbelief
By Bill McLeod1.4K40:59FaithECC 8:11JHN 3:36HEB 3:12HEB 3:15HEB 3:19HEB 4:7In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal testimony of witnessing a miraculous transformation in a family. The mother, who had been praying for a miracle, saw three of her sons become missionaries, including one who became an outstanding missionary in Brazil. The preacher emphasizes the power of belief in God's ability to bring about change and overcome any problem in our lives. He encourages listeners to reject Satan's lies of unbelief and instead trust in God's control and ability to bring victory and blessings. The sermon also includes a story from the Bible about a king who doubted God's ability to end a drought, and as a result, he died without experiencing the miracle. The preacher concludes by urging listeners to cast their cares upon God and have faith in His care for them. He also encourages the practice of writing out Bible verses as a way to internalize and remember God's Word.
Christian, Are You Refusing God?
By Tim Conway8001:08:231SA 15:22JOB 9:4ECC 8:11ISA 40:15MAT 15:8LUK 14:17PHP 2:9HEB 2:2HEB 10:28HEB 12:25JAS 1:22This sermon emphasizes the importance of not refusing God's voice, drawing parallels between the consequences faced by those who rejected God's warnings in the past and the greater accountability for those who reject Him today. The message highlights the unshakable nature of God's Kingdom and the need for gratitude, acceptable worship, reverence, and awe towards Him. The urgency to cling to Christ, heed His voice, and run the race faithfully is emphasized, warning against the dangers of drifting away and the necessity of surrendering all to follow Him.
Obeying the Authority
By Chuck Smith75425:04AuthorityEXO 34:6PSA 103:8PRO 16:9ECC 8:11MAT 6:33ROM 12:12PE 3:9In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the nature and character of God. He emphasizes that God is patient and long-suffering, even when dealing with the sinful nature of humanity. Pastor Chuck uses the example of a parent's patience with a young child to illustrate God's patience with us. He also mentions that while nature can reveal certain aspects of God's character, it is difficult to fully understand God through nature alone. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to recognize and appreciate God's patience and to seek a deeper understanding of Him through His word.
Building the Body of Christ - 9 Enoch and Noah Walked With God
By Zac Poonen70857:02GEN 5:22ECC 8:11LUK 21:20HEB 11:5REV 3:1REV 9:14This sermon delves into the story of Enoch, the first preacher in the Bible who preached about the second coming of Christ and judgment against sin. It emphasizes the importance of walking with God, preaching against sin, and having a testimony that pleases God. The sermon highlights the need for believers to have faith, humility, and a focus on spiritual matters amidst a world filled with corruption and rebellion.
06 God's Superior Love: How God Feels About Us (Song 1:2)
By Mike Bickle2444:52God's LoveSpiritual GrowthPSA 19:14PRO 3:12ECC 8:11ISA 63:9MAT 7:21LUK 15:7JHN 15:9ROM 1:241JN 3:1REV 3:19Mike Bickle emphasizes God's superior love for us, illustrating that His affection is more profound than any worldly pleasure. He discusses the importance of understanding God's love, especially in our weaknesses, and how believers often struggle with feelings of condemnation instead of recognizing God's delight in them. Bickle encourages believers to study and meditate on the nature of God's love, which is unconditional and not based on our performance. He highlights that spiritual immaturity is not the same as rebellion, and that God delights in our sincere intentions to obey Him, even when we fall short. Ultimately, Bickle calls for a deeper revelation of God's love to sustain our journey of faith.
This Is the Portion of a Wicked Man From God.
By F.B. Meyer0Consequences of SinJustice Of GodJOB 20:29PSA 37:35PSA 73:18PSA 92:7PRO 11:21ECC 8:11ISA 3:11MAT 7:13GAL 6:7REV 20:15F.B. Meyer emphasizes the inevitable connection between wrongdoing and its consequences, as illustrated in the Book of Job. He reflects on the beliefs of Eastern peoples regarding the punishment of the wicked, asserting that while their suffering may not be immediately evident, it is certain that all wickedness will eventually be revealed and punished. Meyer encourages believers to look beyond the temporary triumphs of the wicked and to trust in God's justice, reminding them that the apparent success of the ungodly is fleeting. He concludes by urging the faithful to find solace in God's ultimate judgment, which assures that the wicked will face their doom, regardless of earthly appearances.
James Chapter 7 the Practical Hope of the Lord's Coming
By A.B. Simpson0PatienceHope in Christ's ReturnECC 4:1ECC 8:11HAB 2:3LUK 12:15LUK 18:7JAS 4:13JAS 5:1JAS 5:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of patience in the face of suffering and injustice, urging believers to hold onto the hope of the Lord's coming as a source of strength and comfort. He draws parallels between the social injustices of James' time and those of today, highlighting the dangers of greed, hoarding, and luxurious living. Simpson encourages Christians to remain steadfast in their faith, reminding them that their labor is not in vain and that the coming of the Lord will bring justice and reward. He calls for a focus on the eternal perspective, urging believers to live with the anticipation of Christ's return as their guiding principle.
Sinners Entreated to Hear God's Voice.
By Edward Payson0PSA 95:7PRO 27:1PRO 29:1ECC 8:11MAT 3:22CO 6:2HEB 3:7HEB 3:15JAS 4:14Edward Payson preaches on the urgency of heeding God's voice and not hardening our hearts, emphasizing the immediate need for repentance and obedience to God's commands. He highlights the shortness and uncertainty of life, the danger of delaying repentance, and the consequences of hardening our hearts against God. Payson urges listeners to consider the seriousness of postponing a relationship with God, warning that tomorrow is not guaranteed and that delaying repentance only leads to further hardening of the heart and distance from God.
From the Death of Alexander and Aristobulus to the Banishment of Archelaus
By Flavius Josephus0PSA 37:12PRO 11:2PRO 15:25PRO 16:5PRO 16:18PRO 18:12PRO 21:24PRO 29:23ECC 8:11Flavius Josephus recounts the tumultuous final days of King Herod, who, afflicted with a severe and painful illness as a divine judgment for his sins, becomes increasingly tyrannical and cruel. Amidst a sedition raised by the Jews due to his sacrilegious acts, Herod orders the execution of those who defied him, including the high priest Matthias. Despite his deteriorating health, Herod remains vengeful and paranoid, summoning all Jewish leaders to Jericho and planning their imprisonment as he nears death.
You’ll Reap That Act
By E.A. Adeboye0ECC 8:11JHN 13:27ACT 5:1ACT 13:6ROM 1:18GAL 6:7E.A. Adeboye emphasizes the principle of sowing and reaping, highlighting that every action in life is like planting seeds that will yield a corresponding harvest. He warns against complacency due to delayed consequences of wrongdoing, citing Ecclesiastes 8:11. Many believers fall into the deception of thinking they can repent later in life, but examples from the New Testament show that consequences can be immediate, such as Judas, Ananaias, and Sapphira. Adeboye urges believers to sow good seeds and seek God's help in making right choices for a fruitful future.
Ecclesiastes 8:11
By Chuck Smith0Fear Of The LordJustice Of GodPSA 37:1PRO 16:6ECC 8:11ISA 40:27MAT 10:30MRK 9:43Chuck Smith addresses the apparent injustice in life where the wicked prosper while the righteous suffer, emphasizing that the lack of immediate judgment on evil leads to fatal misconceptions among the wicked. He warns that many believe God is unaware, uncaring, or will not judge their actions, which is a grave mistake. Smith reassures that those who fear God will ultimately be well, contrasting their fate with that of the wicked who live without the fear of God. He highlights the importance of recognizing God's omniscience and the consequences of sin, urging listeners to choose the path of righteousness.
Elijah’s Dramatic Appearance
By A.W. Pink0Courage in FaithThe Power of PrayerJOS 6:261KI 12:281KI 15:261KI 16:251KI 16:301KI 16:331KI 17:1ECC 8:11ROM 10:17JAS 5:17A.W. Pink discusses the dramatic appearance of Elijah during a dark period in Israel's history, marked by rampant idolatry and wicked kings. He highlights the spiritual decline initiated by Jeroboam and continued through successive rulers, culminating in Ahab's reign, which saw the worship of Baal replace the worship of Jehovah. Elijah emerges as a solitary prophet, filled with righteous indignation and a deep commitment to God's glory, praying earnestly for judgment to fall upon Israel for their apostasy. His boldness in confronting Ahab reflects the courage that comes from being right with God, as he delivers a message of impending drought as a divine consequence of Israel's sins. Pink emphasizes the importance of prayer grounded in God's Word and the need for believers to stand firm in their faith amidst moral decay.
The Practical Hope of the Lord's Coming
By A.B. Simpson0Patience in TrialsHope in Christ's ReturnECC 4:1ECC 8:11HAB 2:3LUK 12:15LUK 18:7JAS 4:13JAS 5:1JAS 5:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes the practical hope found in the Lord's coming, urging believers to be patient amidst trials and injustices, as the coming of the Lord brings ultimate justice and recompense. He draws parallels between the social conditions of James' time and modern society, highlighting the dangers of greed, hoarding, and luxurious living, while calling for a return to God-centered living. Simpson encourages Christians to view their struggles through the lens of hope, reminding them that their labor is not in vain and that the Lord's return will bring fulfillment and reward. He stresses that patience is essential, as the Lord's coming is near and will right all wrongs, providing comfort and motivation for believers in their daily lives.
- Keil-Delitzsch
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Carl Friedrich Keil and Franz Delitzsch Old Testament Commentary
"Who is like the wise? and who understandeth the interpretation of things? The wisdom of a man maketh his face bright, and the rudeness of his face is changed." Unlike this saying: "Who is like the wise?" are the formulas חכם מי, Hos 14:9, Jer 11:11, Psa 107:43, which are compared by Hitzig and others. "Who is like the wise?" means: Who is equal to him? and this question, after the scheme מי־כמכה, Exo 15:11, presents him as one who has not his like among men. Instead of כּה the word כּחכם might be used, after לחכם, Ecc 2:16, etc. The syncope is, as at Eze 40:25, omitted, which frequently occurs, particularly in the more modern books, Eze 47:22; Ch2 10:7; Ch2 25:10; Ch2 29:27; Neh 9:19; Neh 12:38. The regular giving of Dagesh to כ after מי, with Jethib, not Mahpach, is as at Ecc 8:7 after כּי; Jethib is a disjunctive. The second question is not כּיודע, but יודע וּמי, and thus does not mean: who is like the man of understanding, but: who understands, viz., as the wise man does; thus it characterizes the incomparably excellent as such. Many interpreters (Oetinger, Ewald, Hitz., Heiligst., Burg., Elst., Zckl.) persuade themselves that דּבר פּשׁר is meant of the understanding of the proverb, 8b. The absence of the art., says Hitzig, does not mislead us: of a proverb, viz., the following; but in this manner determinate ideas may be made from all indeterminate ones. Rightly, Gesenius: explicationem ullius rei; better, as at Ecc 7:8 : cujusvis rei. Ginsburg compares נבון דּבר, Sa1 16:18, which, however, does not mean him who has the knowledge of things, but who is well acquainted with words. It is true that here also the chief idea פּשׁר first leads to the meaning verbum (according to which the lxx, Jer., the Targ., and Syr. translate; the Venet.: ἑρμηνείαν λόγου); but since the unfolding or explaining (pēshěr) refers to the actual contents of the thing spoken, verbi and rei coincide. The wise man knows how to explain difficult things, to unfold mysterious things; in short, he understands how to go to the foundation of things.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The reason why the wicked persevere in sin: God's delay in judgment (Mat 24:48-51; Pe2 3:8-9). "They see not the smoke of the pit, therefore they dread not the fire" [SOUTH], (Psa 55:19). Joab's escape from the punishment of his murder of Abner, so far from "leading him to repentance," as it ought (Rom 2:4), led him to the additional murder of Amasa.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily,.... Any evil work done by magistrates, or others, against which the wrath of God is revealed from heaven, and is threatened with his vengeance; the decree is gone forth, the sentence is passed, God is determined upon punishment; but there is a delay of it, he exercises patience and longsuffering to answer some end of his, both towards his own people and the wicked; as well as to display some of his own perfections; but because so it is, the judgment comes not at once; therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil; or their "heart is full to do evil" (n); they have not only a fulness of sin in them naturally as is in every man's heart; but they are filled with resolution, boldness, and courage, to commit sin, promising themselves impurity from the seeming delay of justice; such an abuse do they make of the patience and forbearance of God; they become more and more hardened in sin and bent upon the commission of it. (n) "plenum ad faciendum malum", Pagninus, Montanus; "praegnano ad faciendum malum", Gussetius, p. 469.