As the “Professor” observes that all things “fit beautifully” by God’s providence, he ponders the exceptions. How can we find meaning and “gain” in life when things are not as they should be? What advice is there for the one who wishes to live the “good life.”

As the “Professor” runs his experiment in life to see what is really good for humanity to be pursuing, he comes to the conclusion that there is nothing better than to eat, drink and enjoy all one’s labor – this is a gift from God. He then goes on to ponder God’s providential timing of…

In the first verses of Qohelet – the “Professor” suggests that everything is hevel – a mist, a vapor. He then goes on to ponder the question, “What can a person gain from all their toils under the sun?” Because our lives are so short, so transitory, we do not have it in ourselves to…

As we dig into the book of Ecclesiastes, or Qohelet to use its Hebrew name, we consider its author as well as the theme and purpose of the whole book. This profound work of wisdom does not come to the conclusion that life is “meaningless” – as many have understood it – but that life…

In this session, we take a look at how the Book of Moses bridges the gap from Job to the Wisdom writings of Solomon. We also begin to discuss the context and background of Ecclesiastes.

After Elihu steps up to speak for God, to confront Job and his friends on their failures, The LORD YHWH appears in a whirlwind. After questioning Job about His wondrous works of creation, the LORD silences Job and the friends but also restores Job. In the end, THE LORD answers none of the questions raised…

(Job 28-32) As the back and forth between Job and his “friends” comes to an end, the Narrator raises one of the questions at the heart of this book: Where can wisdom be found? It is not found in the heights of creation nor in the depths of man’s searching. Instead, God knows THE Way…

(Job 20—27) The third and final round of speeches in Job are a communication breakdown. As only two of Job’s friends address him and point out his obvious sin, Job maintains the affirmation of his integrity and righteousness. Job is convinced that if he could argue his case before the Almighty, the Almighty would exonerate…

(Job 15:1-19:29) In the second round of speeches, the intensity gets turned up. Job’s friends become more blunt and vicious with little mercy. Job also intensifies his appeal to the Almighty, confident that even in death he will see God and ultimately be shown to be in the right.

(Job 10:1-14:22) As the first round of speeches wind down, Zophar raises the issue of the Lord’s incompressibility. His wisdom and knowledge are too high and too deep for humans to know his plans or challenge His work. Nevertheless, Zophar claims to know exactly what Job needs to do! Job responds again with a plea…