Lesson Text: Ecclesiastes 9:11-18
Lesson Outline:
(1) Wisdom and Chance – Eccl. 9:11-12
(2) Wisdom Forgotten – Eccl. 9:13-16
(3) Wisdom’s Value – Eccl. 9:17-18
Introduction
Ecclesiastes is a book of the Bible about the meaning and purpose of life. The name Ecclesiastes comes from a Greek word meaning something like ” preacher”, “teacher”, or one who addresses an assembly. The speaker is traditionally identified with “the Preacher,” often associated with Solomon. Ecclesiastes teaches:
(1) Life is temporary.
(2) Human accomplishments don’t last forever.
(3) Money and possessions cannot satisfy the soul.
(4) There is a proper time for different things in life.
(5) We should enjoy the good things God gives us, such as food, work, good health, and companionship.
(6) Most importantly, we should fear God and obey Him.
Lesson Outline (1) Wisdom and Chance – Eccl. 9:11-12
We have seen what typically happens when those who choose folly meet the consequences of their actions. Ecclesiastes, however, steps in when unfairness appears. It recognizes that righteous living can sometimes reap what seem to be unfair consequences. The teacher began the passage by reflecting on the seemingly haphazard nature of reality. Things do not happen as we would predict, and those we might consider deserving are not always victorious.
King Solomon returned to his comments about what he had seen “under the sun.” He used this phrase twenty-nine times in the book of Ecclesiastes to refer to what he observed around him. In most instances, he bemoaned or lamented what he saw under the sun, as he stated near the beginning of Ecclesiastes, I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit (Eccl.1:14).
In Ecclesiastes (9:11-12) Solomon bemoaned the inferiority of what he saw around him. He knew of physically strong people, great armies, and brilliant individuals, but he also noticed something else:
(1) The fastest runner does not always win the race.
(2) The strongest army does not always win the battle.
(3) The brilliant person does not always have the most food.
(4) The person with the most understanding is not always the richest man.
(5) The most skillful person does not always have the most favor with others. The point Solomon made is that people cannot always count on the strongest or the most brilliant to be the best in every situation. They have an inherent vulnerability because time and chance can affect all of them.
The author of Ecclesiastes pointed out that a projected winner in an athletic event does not always prevail, military prowess does not always translate to victory, and skill or education does not always bring wealth, success, or fame. From an ” under-the-sun” perspective of someone who does not know God, it seems as if things happen according to chance. The human condition renders everyone vulnerable to disappointments. Even with the investment of time, money, and work, the risks of failure sometimes occur.
Lesson Outline (2) Wisdom Forgotten – Eccl. 9:13-16
The author next considered another example of wisdom. The illustration involves a small city with few inhabitants, surrounded and besieged by a great king. A poor wise man in the city was able to free the city by his wisdom. He did not use a stronger army or greater military skill. Instead, he used his wisdom. Solomon’s conclusion is that wisdom is better than strength. True wisdom is superior to the greatest of human skills and abilities.
However, even in this display of wisdom. Solomon bemoaned the fact that people did not remember the poor wise man; they despised his wisdom, and they did not listen to his words. He was forgotten by the city he saved. In Solomon’s observation of life “under-the sun”, he observed that wisdom is sometimes not accorded the respect and prominence it deserves. But even so, the quiet, thoughtful words of wise men are more valuable than and superior to the loud and foolish words of some rulers.
Natural wisdom and the gift of wisdom from God are related, but they are not the same. Natural wisdom is the ability a person develops through experience, learning, observation, reasoning, and good judgment. For example, someone may have wisdom about (1) managing money, (2) raising children, (3) running a business, and (4) making practical decisions. A person can have great natural wisdom without necessarily having a spiritual gift.
The gift of wisdom is a spiritual gift from the Holy Spirit. This is more than simply being intelligent or experienced. It is the ability, through God’s Spirit, to understand or communicate God’s perspective concerning a particular situation and apply spiritual truth appropriately. The simplest way to distinguish natural wisdom and the Spiritual gift of wisdom is: Natural wisdom is what I’ve learned from life, so I know what to do. Spiritual gift of wisdom: God is giving me insight into how His truth applies to this situation.
Wisdom is better than wealth or power. Fools often seek control through conflict by manipulating truth to gain power. They live by the premise that the ends justify the means. Often the loudest voices in culture peddle folly. Simply having a large following does not guarantee that anyone, whether an author, podcast host, or television star, is wise.
Social media’s allure is likewise attractive but full of empty foolishness. The most stable voices in culture stand upon God’s eternal Word. His Word has withstood the test of time and has never been disproven. By it, God’s people have been able to withstand fiery persecution.
Lesson Outline (3) Wisdom’s Value – Eccl. 9:17-18 The loudest voices are rarely the wisest. Celebrities, politicians, and others who are constantly begging for attention are often far from the best people to listen to. Since the quiet words of the wise are better than the shouting of fools, we may need to learn to talk less. If one is always talking and never stops long enough to listen to the words of the wise person, we are taking over. If we listen only to the most popular pundits and read only the bestselling books, we will listen to the loudest voices but not necessarily the wisest.
Wisdom is far better than military conquest and political power, but one rogue heart can cause great destruction. Wisdom is necessary, but all human knowledge fades in the light of eternity. We will die and sometimes be forgotten, and the wisdom we gave to others. Wisdom is valuable and respected, but there is no guarantee it will be heard or accepted. The loud voices of fools clamor for recognition and approval. One person may offer a persuasive argument that leads to the rejection of wisdom.
Wisdom is greater than power. When we understand that, we no longer need to fight in the way that the world fights (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds: Casting down imagination, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. And having a readiness to revenge [punish] all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled – 2nd Corinthians 10:4-6).
Sunday School is taught from the Bible Expositor and Illuminator
Posted: October 3, 2026 by Evangelist Carolyn Luke
Sunday School Lesson – October 4, 2024: Wisdom Over Strength
Lesson Text: Ecclesiastes 9:11-18
Lesson Outline:
(1) Wisdom and Chance – Eccl. 9:11-12
(2) Wisdom Forgotten – Eccl. 9:13-16
(3) Wisdom’s Value – Eccl. 9:17-18
Introduction
Ecclesiastes is a book of the Bible about the meaning and purpose of life. The name Ecclesiastes comes from a Greek word meaning something like ” preacher”, “teacher”, or one who addresses an assembly. The speaker is traditionally identified with “the Preacher,” often associated with Solomon. Ecclesiastes teaches:
(1) Life is temporary.
(2) Human accomplishments don’t last forever.
(3) Money and possessions cannot satisfy the soul.
(4) There is a proper time for different things in life.
(5) We should enjoy the good things God gives us, such as food, work, good health, and companionship.
(6) Most importantly, we should fear God and obey Him.
Lesson Outline (1) Wisdom and Chance – Eccl. 9:11-12
We have seen what typically happens when those who choose folly meet the consequences of their actions. Ecclesiastes, however, steps in when unfairness appears. It recognizes that righteous living can sometimes reap what seem to be unfair consequences. The teacher began the passage by reflecting on the seemingly haphazard nature of reality. Things do not happen as we would predict, and those we might consider deserving are not always victorious.
King Solomon returned to his comments about what he had seen “under the sun.” He used this phrase twenty-nine times in the book of Ecclesiastes to refer to what he observed around him. In most instances, he bemoaned or lamented what he saw under the sun, as he stated near the beginning of Ecclesiastes, I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and vexation of spirit (Eccl.1:14).
In Ecclesiastes (9:11-12) Solomon bemoaned the inferiority of what he saw around him. He knew of physically strong people, great armies, and brilliant individuals, but he also noticed something else:
(1) The fastest runner does not always win the race.
(2) The strongest army does not always win the battle.
(3) The brilliant person does not always have the most food.
(4) The person with the most understanding is not always the richest man.
(5) The most skillful person does not always have the most favor with others. The point Solomon made is that people cannot always count on the strongest or the most brilliant to be the best in every situation. They have an inherent vulnerability because time and chance can affect all of them.
The author of Ecclesiastes pointed out that a projected winner in an athletic event does not always prevail, military prowess does not always translate to victory, and skill or education does not always bring wealth, success, or fame. From an ” under-the-sun” perspective of someone who does not know God, it seems as if things happen according to chance. The human condition renders everyone vulnerable to disappointments. Even with the investment of time, money, and work, the risks of failure sometimes occur.
Lesson Outline (2) Wisdom Forgotten – Eccl. 9:13-16
The author next considered another example of wisdom. The illustration involves a small city with few inhabitants, surrounded and besieged by a great king. A poor wise man in the city was able to free the city by his wisdom. He did not use a stronger army or greater military skill. Instead, he used his wisdom. Solomon’s conclusion is that wisdom is better than strength. True wisdom is superior to the greatest of human skills and abilities.
However, even in this display of wisdom. Solomon bemoaned the fact that people did not remember the poor wise man; they despised his wisdom, and they did not listen to his words. He was forgotten by the city he saved. In Solomon’s observation of life “under-the sun”, he observed that wisdom is sometimes not accorded the respect and prominence it deserves. But even so, the quiet, thoughtful words of wise men are more valuable than and superior to the loud and foolish words of some rulers.
Natural wisdom and the gift of wisdom from God are related, but they are not the same. Natural wisdom is the ability a person develops through experience, learning, observation, reasoning, and good judgment. For example, someone may have wisdom about (1) managing money, (2) raising children, (3) running a business, and (4) making practical decisions. A person can have great natural wisdom without necessarily having a spiritual gift.
The gift of wisdom is a spiritual gift from the Holy Spirit. This is more than simply being intelligent or experienced. It is the ability, through God’s Spirit, to understand or communicate God’s perspective concerning a particular situation and apply spiritual truth appropriately. The simplest way to distinguish natural wisdom and the Spiritual gift of wisdom is: Natural wisdom is what I’ve learned from life, so I know what to do. Spiritual gift of wisdom: God is giving me insight into how His truth applies to this situation.
Wisdom is better than wealth or power. Fools often seek control through conflict by manipulating truth to gain power. They live by the premise that the ends justify the means. Often the loudest voices in culture peddle folly. Simply having a large following does not guarantee that anyone, whether an author, podcast host, or television star, is wise.
Social media’s allure is likewise attractive but full of empty foolishness. The most stable voices in culture stand upon God’s eternal Word. His Word has withstood the test of time and has never been disproven. By it, God’s people have been able to withstand fiery persecution.
Lesson Outline (3) Wisdom’s Value – Eccl. 9:17-18 The loudest voices are rarely the wisest. Celebrities, politicians, and others who are constantly begging for attention are often far from the best people to listen to. Since the quiet words of the wise are better than the shouting of fools, we may need to learn to talk less. If one is always talking and never stops long enough to listen to the words of the wise person, we are taking over. If we listen only to the most popular pundits and read only the bestselling books, we will listen to the loudest voices but not necessarily the wisest.
Wisdom is far better than military conquest and political power, but one rogue heart can cause great destruction. Wisdom is necessary, but all human knowledge fades in the light of eternity. We will die and sometimes be forgotten, and the wisdom we gave to others. Wisdom is valuable and respected, but there is no guarantee it will be heard or accepted. The loud voices of fools clamor for recognition and approval. One person may offer a persuasive argument that leads to the rejection of wisdom.
Wisdom is greater than power. When we understand that, we no longer need to fight in the way that the world fights (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds: Casting down imagination, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. And having a readiness to revenge [punish] all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled – 2nd Corinthians 10:4-6).
Sunday School is taught from the Bible Expositor and Illuminator
Posted: October 2, 2026 by Evangelist Carolyn Luke
Commitment
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God – Romans 12:2
Commitment is a harsh word to the majority of people professing to be Christians. They desire to live according to the world, and one day a week they attend church and think this is acceptable to God.
Read MoreLast Updated: September 19, 2026 by Evangelist Carolyn Luke
There Is A Way That Seems Right-Sunday School Lesson September 21, 2026
The house of the wicked shall be overthrown: but the tabernacle of the upright shall flourish – Proverbs 14:11.
Lesson Outline (1) The Wise And The Foolish – Proverbs 14:1-3 (2) The Value of Hard Work – Proverbs 14:4 (3) The Truth And Deception – Proverbs 14:5-9 (4) The Condition of One’s Heart – Proverbs 14:10-14 (5) The Path of Life – Proverbs 14:15-19
Introduction In the eyes of human insight, what may seem to be right may not be according to Biblical principles. If the heart of an individual has not been regenerated, they will not be able to discern what is right or wrong in the sight of God. Our lesson today gives the contrasts between the way of the Lord and the way which seemeth right unto a man, and the results of choosing to go one way or the other.
Lesson (1) The Wise and the Foolish – Proverbs 14:1-3 The quality of our lives is largely determined by the quality of the choices we make. Our golden text presents a contrast between two paths: the way of wickedness that leads to destruction and the path of uprightness that results in flourishing. The fool either neglects or tears down moral foundations, whereas the wise build upon biblical truth and encourage others. The wise intentionally build their moral character and behavior by Biblical principals. Verse 1 speaks of a wise woman whose walk honors God and desires God’s way for her family and contrasts her with the foolish woman who goes her own way. Jesus spoke about the wise and foolish builders: Matthew 7:24-27. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. Jesus emphasized the importance of not just hearing His words but also adhering to them.
The walk of the upright or righteous person results in fearing and respecting the Lord. The one who walks in a perverse or devious way despises the Lord and suffers the consequences. The person who walks in pride and speaks foolishly will end up being punished, as it were, with a rod of his own making. The wise walk in uprightness, which positively affects how they treat others. The path we choose affects not only our future but may also have severe consequences for those around us. Making wrong decisions can jeopardize the health and well-being of the family and send their children on a path that will lead them to make bad choices in their lives. We’re an example to our family, community, and co-workers when we profess to be Christians and live our lives by Biblical principles. Christians think before they speak; they make sure the words will be seasoned and graced with the wisdom of God to not offend or hurt anyone.
Lesson (2) The Value of Hard Work – Proverbs 14:4. Verse four discusses the wise use of resources in its reference to animal husbandry. The foolish farmer who does not invest in animals to plow his fields will have a clean stall but no harvest. The wise farmer will take care of his animals and enjoy an increase in his crops. A clean trough means the absence of oxen and their strength, a vital commodity in an agricultural society. An empty stall meant no crops. It takes an intentional heart and mind to live a Christian life; every day will not be a bed of roses, but the Christian still must live a life that will be pleasing to God on the good days and the bad days. Sometimes it may seem hard, but if we contend for the faith that was once given to the saints of old, we will continue to produce good fruit.
Lesson (3) The Truth and Deception – Proverbs 14:5-9. Truthfulness is not merely about avoiding false witness; it is about embodying integrity in all interactions. A false witness sows deceit and destruction, unraveling the fabric of community trust. Truthfulness fosters an environment where love and understanding can flourish. When we speak truthfully, we honor God and people. God delights in truthfulness. We live in a world where deception surrounds us; Christians must choose to be truthful, being a light in a dark world. Showing kindness toward those who are mean, telling the truth rather than lying. Mockers are trapped in a cycle of self-deception, unable to grasp the depth of wisdom because they are unwilling to humble themselves and learn. The pursuit of wisdom requires humility and a willingness to be taught.
Lesson (4) The Condition of One’s Heart – Proverbs 14:10-14 Every heart knows its own bitterness, and no one else can fully share its joy. Verse 10 invites us to reflect on the solitude of our experiences, acknowledging that while others may empathize, they cannot fully enter the depths of our personal joys and sorrows, as well as the thoughts that come to our minds. King Solomon advises the believer to guard their heart (Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life – Proverbs 4:23. Jesus taught His disciples about the heart (For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornication, theft, false witness, blasphemies – Matthew 15:19). The condition of one’s heart will make them love or hate. What’s in the heart will manifest in our behavior and character. When the heart has not been regenerated, some individuals will mock those who embrace godly wisdom. We should always do a self-examination to see if there’s something in our hearts that shouldn’t be there as Christians. Proverbs 14 challenges us to examine the foundations of our lives. Are we building on the sands of worldly success, or are we anchored in the eternal truths of God’s Word? Jesus said where your treasures are, there where you heart will be (For where your treasurers is, there will your heart be also – Matthew 6:21). The choice between wickedness and righteousness is a heart condition.
Lesson (5) The Path of Life – Proverbs 14:15-19 In our journey through life, righteous judgment is a precious gift that guides us along the path of righteousness. God has given every Christian discernment to discern what is right and what is wrong, what is truth and what is a lie. Simple people are gullible and do not evaluate what they hear, while the prudent give thought to their actions. Many Christians have made social media their church and their pastor. They believe whatever the person is saying without discerning whether or not the person is sent by God or sent by Satan. Satan uses people the same way God uses people. Satan uses his people to trip up God’s people when they are just professing the Word and not living by the Word. Their misguided views lead them down a destructive path they think is right, but it leads to spiritual death.
Every action has a consequence, whether it’s good or bad. In a fallen world, people can get ahead through injustice, wickedness, and sin. In a fallen world, sinful actions can have outcomes that seem beneficial; cheating, stealing, and selling drugs can make a lot of money. This is just for a moment, while hell is eternity. As Christians, we must live our lives as though Jesus is coming today or death. If we sow to the flesh, we will reap corruption, but if we sow to our spirit, we will have eternity living with Jesus. The foolish think they can attend church and live secular lives, and nothing is wrong with it, but according to the Word of God, He said Be ye holy, for I am holy. We can’t live any other lifestyle and enter heaven. Christians must make wise decisions that are aligned with the Word of God.
The lesson is taken from The Bible Expositor and Illuminator
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