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Ecclesiastes 7:1 is a turning point in the book. In the earlier 6 chapters, the preacher taught by using stories. From here on, the primary mode of teaching is proverbs.

Rather than look at all the individual topics brought up in Ecclesiastes 7:1-14, we spent last Sunday looking at the spirit of his words. I love how he was able to speak rather unorthodox statements without fear. He was also able to share a disillusioned view of life—an attitude that would be shunned by the church today.

How do you feel when you read such radical words in scripture? Surprised at the author’s audacity? Encouraged by the author’s honesty? Disturbed by the author’s pessimism?