THE VANITY OF PLEASURE

                                                          Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 (505)

    Introduction

          A.  Review

          B.  Our study this morning deals with the vanity of pleasure.  Eccl. 2:1-11

          C.  Solomon had the resources and opportunities to engage in any pleasures that were

                available.  V10

          D.  Let’s look at King Solomon’s pursuit of pleasure.

      I.  Solomon sought pleasure through entertainment.  Vv1-2

          A.  “Mirth” means merriment or entertainment.  “Laughter” probably means laughter

                Involved in foolishness.

               

          B.  Entertainment aspect of our society:

    II.  Solomon pursued pleasure through accomplishments..  Vv3-6

          A.  Examples (1 Kings 5:5,p 270; 1 Kings 7:1; 2 Chronicles 8:1-6. p 355)

          B.  Examples in our society:

   III.  Solomon looked for pleasure through possessions.  Vv7-8

          A.  Examples (2 Chronicles 9-selected verses, p356)

          B.  Availability of possessions today.

   IV.  Solomon tried to find pleasure in prominence.  V9

          A.  Example (2 Chronicles 9:22-23, p 357)

          B.  Examples  in our lives:

    V.  King Solomon’s conclusion.  Vv10-11

          A.  VANITY

          B.  GRASPING FOR THE WIND

Closing:  Pleasure is short lived.  Hebrews 11:25 (889).  Which is better: to pursue pleasure or to

                obey God?  1 John 2:15-17 (900)