As I read through and study Solomon’s Book of Ecclesiastes, for personal enlightenment rather than for preparation to teach, I appreciate the insights offered by Douglas Wilson, through his book Joy At the End of the Tether: The Inscrutable Wisdom of Ecclesiastes.

First, I appreciate the “scaffolding” Wilson identifies – the two great refrains that run throughout the book. Wilson notes:

Throughout the book, two great refrains can be heard. When we come to understand the meaning of these refrains, we will then know that the meaning of life cannot be found by fumbling in the dark. Instead of viewing the book as a series of disjointed and sometimes contradictory statements, we must first listen for those themes which integrate all the teaching of the entire book.

In other words, for us to understand the message of Ecclesiastes, we must recognize both of these refrains, understand what each means, and recognize how these two refrains relate to one another. What are these two themes?

• “Under the Sun”
• “The Great Gift of God”.

As one who benefits from outlines when I read and study, I also appreciate the simple outline Wilson sketches. Wilson writes:

Ecclesiastes has four basic sections, or divisions. In the first, Ecclesiastes 1.2 – 2.26, we see that Solomon’s experience shows that satisfaction cannot come from anything within the power or competence of man. In chapters 3.1-5.20, he shows that God is sovereign over everything. He then goes on to answer objections to this (perennially offensive) doctrine. Third, Ecclesiastes 6.1-8.15 carefully applies this doctrine that the sovereign God alone gives the power to enjoy this parade of vanity. Without an understanding of the Almighty, and without seeing his attributes, nature, and character, the world is nothing but an ongoing vexation of spirit. And finally, Ecclesiastes 8.16-12.14 removes various obstacles and discouragements, and addresses numerous practical concerns.

So, this outline of Ecclesiastes, as I paraphrase it:

• Ecclesiastes 1.2 – 2.26: Reasons for Dissatisfactions and Frustrations in Life
• Ecclesiastes 3.1 – 5.20: The Reality of the Sovereignty of God
• Ecclesiastes 6.1 – 8.15: Why God’s Sovereignty is the Key to Our Satisfaction & Joy
• Ecclesiastes 8.16 – 12.14: Practical Practices for Living a Life of Satisfaction & Joy

Just a few notes of things helping me to appreciate the wisdom of Solomon.