When Up is Down and Down is Up

Text: Ecclesiastes 7: 1-14

Introduction:

 Solomon, at this point in the book, begins to make a turn. Up until now, he has been viewing life from "under the sun." Now he begins shedding some light from above.

 Sin turned the world upside down. Paul was accused of turning the world upside down. Actually he was taking an upside world and turning it right side up.

Proposition: Wisdom is gained when we choose or experience the "best" things in life.

Transitional Sentence: Solomon shares eight comparisons showing the "upside down" nature of wisdom.

  1. Good Name Rather Than Precious Ointment
  2. The Day Of Death Is Better Than The Day Of Life
  3. House Of Mourning Than House Of Feasting
  4. Sorrow Rather Than Laughter
  5. Hear Rebuke Rather Than Fool’s Song
  6. Oppression Destroys Reason Rather Than Bribe Debases Heart
  7. The End Of A Thing Rather Than Its Beginning
  8. Patient In Spirit Rather Than Proud In Spirit

Conclusion: Strive for the best in life, not just the good. Mediocrity is nothing more than getting by with doing good without doing the best!