Conclusion of the whole matter

The Fear of God: Our Anchor in Vanity

Bible Passage: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

Summary: In Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, the Preacher wraps up his reflections on the futility of life under the sun by emphasizing the importance of fearing God and keeping His commandments as the essence of true fulfillment and purpose.

Application: This passage serves as a reminder for Christians to prioritize their relationship with God amidst the distractions and emptiness of worldly pursuits. Embracing a healthy fear of God can lead to a deeper commitment to holiness and a meaningful life that echoes into eternity.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that fearing God is not about terror, but about recognizing His authority and holiness, leading to a life of obedience and reverence. It illustrates that true fulfillment comes from aligning our lives with God’s will rather than the fleeting pleasures of this world.

How this passage could point to Christ: This theme points to Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of our duty to fear God. In Christ, we find the perfect example of obedience to God’s commandments, and through His sacrifice, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live in a way that honors God.

Big Idea: Understanding and embracing the fear of God transforms our perspective and leads us away from the vanity of life, anchoring our hearts in holiness and purpose that lasts for eternity.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider exploring the Hebrew terms for 'fear' and how they contribute to our understanding of reverence versus dread in God's presence. Investigating how the fear of God is presented throughout the wisdom literature can also provide valuable insights. Using your Logos library, you can examine commentaries on Ecclesiastes that unpack the cultural and theological implications of the text to enrich your sermon.

Ecclesiastes 12:13–14 KJV 1900

13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.

During the reign of King Josiah, the Book of the Law was discovered in the temple after years of neglect. When it was read to the people, they were filled with awe and fear, realizing how far they had strayed from God's commandments. This moment sparked a nationwide revival, where the king called the people to repentance and restoration. It shows us that fearing God and keeping His commandments can transform hearts and even nations when we truly see His holiness and the importance of His directives.

Consider the life of Daniel in Babylon, who exemplified what it meant to fear God and keep His commandments. Despite facing the pressures of a foreign culture, Daniel remained steadfast in his faith, refusing to bow to the king's demands or partake in unholy practices. His unwavering commitment led him to a lions' den, but God delivered him as a testimony to the power of living in reverence to Him. Daniel’s story embodies the courage needed to fear God in all circumstances, highlighting that obedience comes with divine protection.

1. Revere God

Ecclesiastes 12:13

You could discuss how having a reverential fear of God is foundational, allowing us to find purpose in obedience. Emphasize that recognizing God's authority liberates us from the vanity of worldly pursuits, anchoring us in a life that glorifies Him. Encourage the congregation to examine their hearts and prioritize a relationship with God to combat life's emptiness.

As children we are typical raised to revere our fathers and obey them.

Look at Solomon’s opening statement of chapter 12, where he commands us to remember God in the days of our youth, this is the way to avoid the judgment of God in our lives.

Ecclesiastes 12:1 KJV 1900

1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;

Solomon is giving this instruction as one who has experienced the judgment of God. Solomon was given great wisdom and squandered it by living a life consumed with ungodliness and lust.

Why did Solomon stray from God, what was missing in his life?

The fear of God.

Our world today has lost it’s fear for God. It is evident in the way in which they live their lives. How they take the Lord’s name in vain, curse, live openly in sin.

We must be the ones to stand out and fear God.

2. Respond in Obedience

Ecclesiastes 12:13

Perhaps you could illustrate how keeping God's commandments as an expression of devotion, deepens our intimacy with Him. Explain that this commitment transforms our lives, guiding us toward true fulfillment. Highlight that Christ exemplifies perfect obedience and His life models how we can all live in holiness by submitting to God's will.

Our obedience is a demonstration of our devotion to God.

3. Recognize Coming Judgment

Ecclesiastes 12:14

Maybe explore the reality that God sees all things, and His future judgment motivates us to live with integrity. Discuss how living with awareness of this accountability leads us to wise choices and a holy lifestyle, ensuring our lives reflect God's glory. Urge the congregation to live with eternal perspective, knowing that their deeds matter.

We need to recognize that there is a coming judgment for how we live our lives. We will be judged, we are not exempt from the judgment of God.

4. Renew Your Purpose

Ecclesiastes 12:14

You could conclude by suggesting that embracing the fear of God is transformational, enabling us to live counter-culturally. Stress the hope we have in Christ’s promise of eternal life, encouraging the congregation to anchor their identity in Him amidst a vain world. Challenge listeners to live each day with purpose, grounded in God’s eternal truths.

We end where we began. 1 John 3:1-3

1 John 3:1–3 KJV 1900

1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.