WISDOM AND FOLLY

                                                        Ecclesiastes 10:1-20 (510)

    Introduction

          A.  This chapter contains several proverbs.

      I.  Observations. Vv1-3

          A.  Dead flies in ointment will cause it to stink (V1), so a little folly (foolishness) can

                tarnish a wise person’s reputation.                             

                1.  Example:

                2.  The wise person must be careful because more attention is given to him than

                     others.

          B.  Wisdom brings honor and favor.  

                1.  In ancient times the right hand represented honor and favor, while the left

                     represented dishonor(V2). Jesus used this principle in Matthew 25:31-33 (726) 

          C.  Foolishness will eventually fail a person (V3).

    II.  Wisdom demands submission.  Vv4-7

          A.  Remain patient when someone in authority loses his temper.  Vv4-6

          B.  Sometimes those who are not qualified have been assigned to positions of

                dignity.  V7

          C.  We must cooperate with the government for it to function.

   III.  Wisdom is an asset.  Vv8-11

          A.  Teaches us not to rebel. V8

          B.  Teaches us that accidents happen.  V9

          C.  If wisdom isn’t used to its maximum, more effort is required.  V10

         

   IV.  The words of the wise and the foolish.

          A.  Wise (V12):

          B.  Foolish (Vv12-14).  Labor of the fool (V15)

    V.  The government 

          A.  Curses to the people (Vv16, 18,19):

          B.  Blessings to the people (V17)

          C.  Respect those in authority. V20; 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (876)

Closing:  The wise person obeys God but the foolish disobeys God.  Matthew 7:24-27 (708)