
W.J. Erdman
- Sermons
- Bio
The Adam
0ECC 3:10ECC 6:12ECC 7:29ECC 12:13In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the focus is on the book of Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the ultimate duty of man to fear God and keep His commandments. The term 'the Adam' is used to represent the entire human race, highlighting the imperfection and failure of humanity in fulfilling this duty. Despite the ideal of man being to fear God and obey His commands, the reality of judgment for both good and evil deeds reveals the inadequacy of man's efforts to earn acceptance before God. The book of Ecclesiastes is portrayed as a reflection on the struggles and uncertainties faced by humanity, rather than the experiences of a wise and unfallen Adam.
The Divine Name
0PSA 9:10PSA 34:8PSA 37:4PSA 46:1PSA 111:10PSA 130:3PRO 9:10ECC 12:13ROM 3:23ROM 6:23W.J. Erdman delves into the absence of the name Jehovah in the book, emphasizing the distant portrayal of God as a judge and man's unredeemed state, seeking what is best under the sun but not seeking God Himself. The book lacks a display of redeeming mercy from God and saving faith in man, contrasting with the Psalmist's perspective. Despite the mysterious relation between man and God's purpose, the fear of God and belief in divine judgment are evident, revealing God's involvement in every aspect of man's life.
Under the Sun
0ECC 9:5W.J. Erdman preaches on the perspective of the Preacher in Ecclesiastes, emphasizing the focus on earthly life 'under the sun' and the natural man's absorption with present labor and enjoyment. The Preacher's reluctance towards death stems from the desire to continue experiencing earthly pleasures and pursuits, rather than concerns about judgment or the afterlife. Despite glimpses of future judgment, the Preacher's main lament is the lack of profit, portion, and remembrance after death, highlighting a longing for immortality and a deep attachment to life 'under the sun.' The sermon explores how the Preacher's worldview contrasts with the faith and hope in God's goodness and salvation displayed by biblical figures like Job, Hezekiah, and Asaph.
The Theme
0ECC 1:2ECC 2:11ECC 3:11ECC 9:9ECC 12:13W.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.
The Vanities of the Wise Experimenter. 2:1-26
0ECC 1:2ECC 2:17ECC 2:24ECC 5:18ECC 12:13In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the preacher delves into the journey of a Seeker who starts with youthful pleasure and mirth, seeking 'the good' in life's experiences but ultimately finds everything to be vanity. Despite guiding his heart with wisdom, the Seeker realizes that even wisdom and royal possessions do not bring lasting satisfaction. The preacher reflects on the madness and despair of human existence, where all earthly enjoyments and possessions are deemed worthless, leading to a conclusion of enjoying life's simple pleasures before God. However, this too is marred by the realization that someone else toiled for the possessions now enjoyed, highlighting the pervasive vanity in all human endeavors.
The Times of the World. 3:1-22
0ECC 3:11ECC 3:17ECC 3:22ECC 8:17ECC 9:5ECC 12:13In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the Preacher reflects on the fleeting nature of human life and the inscrutable ways of God's eternal purpose. He contemplates the limited understanding of man in relation to the divine plan, emphasizing the importance of fearing God and acknowledging His ultimate judgment. Despite the mysteries and vanities of life, the Preacher advises surrendering to God's sovereignty and finding joy in the present moment.
Vanities Social and Political. 4:1-16
0PSA 39:5PRO 23:4ECC 1:14ECC 3:11ECC 4:1In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the preacher reflects on the endless cycle of vanity and hopelessness that plagues humanity. He observes the oppression and suffering in the world, leading to a deep sense of despair and questioning the value of existence. Erdman highlights the futility of worldly pursuits and the fleeting nature of success, fame, and power, emphasizing the transient nature of human endeavors. The preacher underscores the self-centeredness of each generation and the ultimate insignificance of earthly achievements, pointing to the eternal truth that life without a deeper purpose is like chasing after the wind.
Vain Worship. 5:1-20
0PSA 139:7ECC 3:12ECC 5:1ECC 12:13COL 1:17In the sermon 'The Seeker,' W.J. Erdman reflects on the emptiness of worldly pursuits and the superficiality of human worship, urging worshippers to approach God with reverence and sincerity. He highlights the distance between man and God, portraying Him as a distant, judgmental figure, especially in religious institutions that ignore Christ as the Redeemer. Erdman emphasizes the importance of enjoying life with gratitude and a God-centered perspective, ultimately concluding that true goodness and beauty come from acknowledging God's presence in all aspects of life.
The Great Contradiction and Failure. 6:1-12
0ECC 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.
The New Quest and Law of Life. 7:1-29
0PRO 4:7ECC 3:14ECC 7:16ECC 7:20ECC 7:26ECC 7:29ECC 8:12ECC 12:13In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the Preacher embarks on a new quest to discover 'the Good' in a high law for life under the sun, possibly found in the fear of God. He seeks wisdom as the means to find the Chief Good, balancing the better and worse things in life to find the 'golden mean.' The Preacher cautions against extremes, advocating for prudence and moderation in all things, even in righteousness. He addresses the contradictions in the treatment of the righteous and the wicked, advising against self-righteousness and excessive wickedness, emphasizing the importance of finding the safe mean and living in the fear of God.
The Prudence and the Conclusion. 8:1-15
0ECC 8:14ECC 9:3In this sermon by the Preacher, he reflects on the futility of human life and the inevitability of death, noting that neither foresight nor wickedness can save anyone from the grave. He contemplates the perplexing contradiction between the fate of the righteous and the wicked, expressing his confusion and despair at the unfairness of life's outcomes. Ultimately, he concludes that the best one can do in the face of life's uncertainties is to find joy in the simple pleasures granted by God, such as eating, drinking, and being merry.
The Final Attempt and Failure. 8:16-9:12
0ECC 8:17ECC 9:10In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the Seeker delves into the complexities of life under the sun, exploring the relationship between human works and destinies with the purpose and work of God. Despite thorough exploration, the Seeker realizes the inscrutability of God's purpose and the inevitability of death for all. As he contemplates the unknown future after death and the unpredictability of life 'under the sun,' he finds solace in the busyness and fellowship of living. Ultimately, the Seeker's philosophy falters, leading him to the conclusion of enjoying life's simple pleasures and embracing the inevitable vanity of existence.
The Philosophy and Prudential Maxims. 9:13-11:16
0PRO 3:5PRO 16:9ECC 3:1ECC 9:10ECC 12:13W.J. Erdman reflects on the climax of life and thought, pondering the great question as shadows lengthen towards the 'long home.' Despite failures, he finds a permanent serenity and composure, still valuing wisdom and prudence. As he cautiously praises wisdom, he contemplates the greater conclusion of fearing God and keeping His commandments. Through proverbial philosophy, he imparts worldly-wise maxims emphasizing the importance of prudence and 'due proportion' in all aspects of life, including relationships with rulers, culminating in the wisdom that man's ignorance of God's mysterious purpose should not hinder him from fulfilling his own work.
The Sum and Forecast and Great Conclusion. 11:17-12:14
0ECC 1:2ECC 2:11ECC 3:1ECC 5:10ECC 7:2ECC 11:9ECC 12:1ECC 12:13In this sermon by W.J. Erdman, the Preacher reflects on the vanity of life under the sun, emphasizing the fleeting nature of earthly pursuits and the ultimate conclusion that all is vanity. Despite the search for meaning and fulfillment, the Preacher warns of the emptiness of life without fearing God and keeping His commandments in anticipation of judgment. The sermon delves into the contrast between the joys of youth and the sorrows of old age, highlighting the inevitability of darkness and the transience of earthly pleasures.
The Literatures of the Natural Man
0ECC 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.
The Natural Man and Conscience
0ACT 17:30ROM 1:20ROM 2:14ROM 3:20GAL 3:11W.J. Erdman preaches about the universal truth underlying all natural religions, emphasizing the importance of fearing God, doing right, and acknowledging the coming judgment day. He highlights how various cultures and wise men throughout history have recognized the significance of fearing God and keeping His commandments, as echoed in the New Testament teachings. Erdman emphasizes that while duty is essential, it is not redemptive, and salvation cannot be earned through works alone, contrasting the Gospel message with the beliefs of other sacred texts.
The Law and the Gospel
0JHN 3:16JHN 14:6ROM 3:23ROM 6:23EPH 2:8W.J. Erdman preaches about the limitations of the natural man in understanding the gospel, emphasizing that the conclusion of the natural man falls short of true Christianity with its focus on the cross, grace, and the revealed wonders of God. He contrasts the insufficiency of human efforts to fear God and keep His commandments with the necessity of justification by faith in Christ alone for eternal life and salvation. Erdman highlights how the Hebrew Scripture and human wisdom ultimately point to the need for God's grace in Christ Jesus to save sinners from despair and judgment.
Analysis of Ecclesiastes
0ECC 2:24W.J. Erdman preaches on the search for the Chief Good sought by the natural man through experience and observation of all things done 'Under the Sun.' The sermon is divided into two parts: Part I focuses on the prologue, the wise search, the vanities, and the resort, while Part II delves into wise conduct, the law of the Golden Mean, the problem of life unsolved, and the final conclusion on the Chief Good under the Sun.
The Seven Churches
0REV 1:9REV 2:1REV 2:8REV 2:12REV 2:18REV 3:1REV 3:7REV 3:14W.J. Erdman preaches on the powerful vision of Christ among the churches in the Book of Revelation, emphasizing His presence and authority over the Universal Church. The vision reveals Christ's priestly and judicial role, offering praise, warnings, and promises to the churches. The seven letters to the churches address specific commendations, rebukes, and promises, reflecting the various conditions of the historic and present-day church. Each letter follows a structured format, highlighting the Author's description, praise or censure, words of encouragement or warning, and promises to the overcomers.
The Seven Seals
0REV 4:1REV 5:1REV 6:1REV 7:1REV 8:1W.J. Erdman preaches on the powerful vision of Christ in the place of universal power, depicted in Revelation chapters 4 and 5. The vision reveals Christ as the Lamb that was slain, receiving worship and praise from all created beings, leading to His ultimate triumph as King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The sermon emphasizes the assurance that despite the trials and judgments on earth, Christ's people are safe in His care and will be rescued from the wrath to come.
The Seven Trumpets
0REV 8:2W.J. Erdman preaches on the powerful visions in the Book of Revelation, starting with the Angel and the Incense, depicting the prayers of the saints and the judgments at the sounding of the seven Trumpets, encouraging continuous prayer for deliverance and the triumph of righteousness. The progression through the Six Trumpets reveals symbolic interpretations of destruction, apostasy, and the rise of evil powers, leading to the ultimate overthrow of wrong. The Episode of the Angel with the Little Book and the Two Witnesses provides comfort to the faithful, emphasizing the call to testify even unto death and the assurance of a better resurrection. The Consummation under the Seventh Trumpet signifies the establishment of the everlasting Kingdom of God, with the removal of the Church before the pouring out of the Vials of wrath.
The Seven Personages
0REV 12:1W.J. Erdman preaches on the profound visions in Revelation, starting with the two signs in heaven depicting the cosmic battle between good and evil, the birth of the Messiah, and the ultimate victory of God's kingdom over Satan's deception. The introduction vision highlights the conflict between the woman representing Israel, her child symbolizing the Messiah, and the dragon embodying the Devil's opposition to God's redemptive plan. The subsequent scenes reveal the rise of the two beasts, representing secular and religious powers that deceive and persecute God's people during the great tribulation. The sermon progresses to the episode of the first fruits and the three angels, emphasizing the faithfulness and judgment of God's people amidst worldly chaos. Finally, the consummation vision portrays the harvest and vintage, symbolizing the separation of the righteous and the wicked at the end times.
The Seven Vials
0REV 15:1W.J. Erdman preaches on the visions of the Overcomers and the Seven Angels in Revelation 15, highlighting the victorious standing of those who overcome the beast and sing the song of Moses and the Lamb. The scene of the Holy of Holies being opened and the Seven Angels coming forth with the bowls of wrath signifies a momentous event of God's judgment. The pouring out of the Six Vials in Revelation 16 reveals the escalating wrath of God upon the earth, leading up to the Seventh Vial which brings forth final and comprehensive judgments upon God's enemies, culminating in the battle of Armageddon and the destruction of Babylon.
The Seven Dooms
0REV 17:1REV 18:24REV 19:11REV 20:1W.J. Erdman preaches on the visions of Babylon and the Beast in Revelation 17, highlighting the judgment of the great harlot and the beast with seven heads and ten horns. The woman symbolizes a corrupt religious system drunk with the blood of saints, leading to her ultimate destruction. The distinction between 'Babylon' as a system and a city is made, emphasizing the need for God's people to come out of her before her final judgment. The sermon delves into the fall of Babylon, the dooms of the Beast, false prophet, and the Dragon, culminating in the final victory of the King of kings and Lord of lords.
The Seven New Things
0REV 21:1W.J. Erdman preaches about the breathtaking vision of the New Heaven and Earth, and the Holy City, New Jerusalem, descending from God, symbolizing the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises and the removal of pain, sorrow, and death. The City is described in intricate detail, showcasing its glory, purity, and eternal nature, with God and the Lamb as its temple and light. The sermon emphasizes the restoration of paradise, unbroken fellowship with God, and the eternal reign of the redeemed in the New Jerusalem, the culmination of divine purpose and human history.