Chasing Fulfillment: Finding Purpose Beyond the Sun
Sermon Summary
In this sermon, we delve into the wisdom literature of Ecclesiastes, specifically chapter one, where Solomon reflects on the futility of life’s pursuits without God. Solomon, having experienced all that life has to offer in terms of wealth, pleasure, and wisdom, concludes that everything is meaningless without a relationship with God. The sermon challenges us to consider what we are seeking fulfillment in and encourages us to find true satisfaction in Jesus Christ. By examining Solomon’s life and teachings, we are reminded that life’s activities and the pursuit of knowledge are pointless unless they are directed towards God. The sermon concludes with a call to live as living sacrifices, pleasing to God, and to find our ultimate purpose and satisfaction in Him.
Intro Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we gather today to reflect on Your Word and the wisdom of Solomon, we ask for open hearts and minds. May we be receptive to the lessons You have for us and be willing to examine where we seek fulfillment in our lives. Help us to understand the futility of chasing after worldly pleasures and knowledge without You at the center. Guide our discussion, Lord, and let it be fruitful and edifying for our walk with You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Ice Breaker
If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Key Verses
Ecclesiastes 1:2 – “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Utterly meaningless! Everything is meaningless.”
Mark 8:36 – “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”
Questions
- How does Solomon’s reflection on the futility of life’s pursuits resonate with your own experiences?
- In what ways have you sought fulfillment from the world, and how has it left you feeling empty?
- How does the concept of living as a “living sacrifice” change your perspective on daily activities?
- What does it mean to you to “deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow” Jesus?
- How can we apply Solomon’s conclusion that fearing God and keeping His commands is the essence of life?
- Can you share a time when you found satisfaction in knowledge or activities that were directed towards God?
- How does the idea of everything being meaningless apart from God influence your priorities and decisions?
- What steps can you take to ensure that your pursuit of knowledge and activities are aligned with God’s will?
Life Application
This week, challenge yourself to evaluate where you are seeking fulfillment. Make a conscious effort to redirect any pursuits that are not centered on Christ towards activities and knowledge that glorify God. Whether it’s through your work, relationships, or personal hobbies, seek to do everything for the glory of God as instructed in 1 Corinthians 10:31.
Ending Prayer
Lord God, we thank You for the wisdom shared today and the reminder that our fulfillment comes from You alone. As we leave this place, may we carry the lessons of Solomon with us, seeking to glorify You in all that we do. Help us to live as living sacrifices, denying ourselves and following Jesus wholeheartedly. May our activities and knowledge be satisfying because they are done in Your name and for Your purpose. We ask for Your guidance as we apply these truths to our lives this week. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
