Solomon is generally regarded as the author of this book, although not mentioned by name.  This morning we will discuss the theme of the Book of Ecclesiastes and make application for today.  Althought the lesson today is more expository in nature, we will note several points in the outline and overview.

1)  INTRODUCTION
     A.  The writer, regarded as Solomon, is basically searching for happiness and the meaning of life
     B.  He has a strong background in a variety of different areas
          1.  Wrote a large portion of Proverbs
          2.  Wrote the Song Of Solomon
          3.  Psalms 72 and 127
          4.  Name means "Beloved of the Lord"
          5.  Ruled over a large kingdom 1 Kings 4:21; 1 Kings 9: 66-68
          6.  Built Israel into a commercial power, also a prolific builder
          7.  extended period of peace under his rule
          8.  regarded as the wisest of all men
    C.  A literary man
          1.  a naturalist - wrote extensively about nature
          2.  penned nearly 3000 proverbs, a portion of which we have
          3.  Great wisdom a gift from God 1 Kings 3: 11-12
          4.  Peace for 40 years - 1 Kings 11:42
    D.  A man, though, influenced by others
         1.  700 wives, 300 concubines - many foreign women
         2.  Turned aside his heart - 1 Kings 11: 1-8
         3.  Lavish luxury also a burden to his nation

2)  THE PERSPECTIVE
     A.  Not at a good point in his life
     B.  His wisdom didn't keep him safe from those evil influences

3)  WHERE IS HAPPINESS/THE MEANING OF LIFE?
     A.  Worldly wisdom?  Eccl 1: 12-13,16;  1 Kings 4: 32-34
     B.  Material wealth?  1 Kings 10: 14-23;  Eccl 6: 1-2
     C.  Worldly pleasure?  Eccl 2: 1-11
     D.  Position and power? 2 Chron 9: 26; 1 Kings 10: 16-18; 2 Chronicles 9:1-9

4)  CONCLUSION
     A.  Eccl 12:13
     B.  Matthew 6: 19-21

POWERPOINT