Ecclesiastes 4:1-16

1 So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter. 2 Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than the living which are yet alive. 3 Yea, better is he than both they, which hath not yet been, who hath not seen the evil work that is done under the sun. 4 Again, I considered all travail, and every right work, that for this a man is envied of his neighbour. This is also vanity and vexation of spirit. 5 The fool foldeth his hands together, and eateth his own flesh. 6 Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit. 7 Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun. 8 There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave my soul of good? This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail. 9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? 12 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. 13 Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish king, who will no more be admonished. 14 For out of prison he cometh to reign; whereas also he that is born in his kingdom becometh poor. 15 I considered all the living which walk under the sun, with the second child that shall stand up in his stead. 16 There is no end of all the people, even of all that have been before them: they also that come after shall not rejoice in him. Surely this also is vanity and vexation of spirit.

Summary: In Ecclesiastes 4:1-16, the author reflects on the struggles of human existence, emphasizing the loneliness of isolation and the importance of companionship amidst a competitive and often cruel world.

Application: This passage encourages Christians to seek authentic relationships and community, reminding them that cooperation and support can alleviate the burdens of life and foster joy, especially in times of trial.

Teaching: The sermon could teach that while competition is pervasive in society, true fulfillment and strength come from valuing and cultivating friendships, as they offer support and love that enhance our lives.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the grand narrative of Scripture, Christ embodies the ultimate friend and companion, inviting believers into a relationship that surpasses all earthly connections, demonstrating that God values community, as seen in His Trinitarian nature.

Big Idea: In a world where competition often breeds isolation, we find strength, joy, and purpose in the bonds of friendship that reflect Christ's love for us.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider diving into Logos for insights on the historical context of Ecclesiastes and its reflections on human relationships. Explore commentaries that discuss the literary structure of the text and how this passage contrasts with other wisdom literature focusing on community. Additionally, investigate how different translations of key terms may impact your interpretation of companionship.

1. Injustice with No Support Brings Despair.

Ecclesiastes 4:1–3 KJV 1900

You could begin by discussing the heavy burden of oppression found in these verses. Reflect on how the lack of companionship can amplify suffering and how, without community, life's burdens become unbearable. By acknowledging the Christocentric view, one might draw parallels between human oppression and Christ's own burdens taken for humanity's sake. The application here is a call to action for believers to become companions to the oppressed, reflecting the love and friendship Christ offers us in our struggles.

Solomon once again refers back to the theme of injustice from Ecc 3:16. Injustice causes us to lose heart, especially if we are on the receiving end of it.

We often feel as though, “I have received this injustice in my life, and there is nobody that can possibly understand what it is that I am going through.” And that may be the case; however, it is good that we allow those that have proven themselves to be loyal, committed, and steadfast to be a part of our struggles. God may just be using them for a greater purpose, not to mention, we often like to wallow in our own self-misery.

Its all part of that egotism that Solomon finished warning us about in the last chapter.

If we view this passage as being from the prospective of “under the sun” it is easy to see how a desire for friendship can be a very selfish and self-centered prospective.

Loyal friendships can bring comfort during such difficult and trying situations and circumstances.

Galatians 6:1–2 KJV 1900

1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

Looking at “all oppression” is hyperbole. No one can see all oppression and injustice except for God.

Believe it or not, if we are not careful, sometimes we can view something perceived to be one way, only for it to truly be the other.

We’ve all seen on TV or read the stories, a person is accused of some crime, major or minor—but, an action they did not commit. The entire community turns against them, claiming they deserve punishment, but one person believes their innocence and decides to investigate. After much effort, he discovers the real culprit. When the truth is revealed, the initial judgment is overturned, and justice is served.

This type of story echoes the biblical principle of 'do not judge by appearances,' reminding us that true justice often lies behind the surface we initially see. Our perception of injustice can sometimes be clouded, requiring deep love and inquiry to find the truth.

However, amidst hardship and injustice in life, it sure is good to have a friend to help out however that help may be.

It may not always come out to be that you need a friend to prove your innocence. It may just be that you need a friend to talk to, or even just to “be there.”

2 Samuel 15:32–34 KJV 1900

32 And it came to pass, that when David was come to the top of the mount, where he worshipped God, behold, Hushai the Archite came to meet him with his coat rent, and earth upon his head: 33 Unto whom David said, If thou passest on with me, then thou shalt be a burden unto me: 34 But if thou return to the city, and say unto Absalom, I will be thy servant, O king; as I have been thy father’s servant hitherto, so will I now also be thy servant: then mayest thou for me defeat the counsel of Ahithophel.

Hushai made an effort to show David that he was sympathizing with him, and what burden David meant by, I’m not entirely certain; however, David asked of Hushai basically of “a huge favor”. One that would certainly put Hushai in risk of his own life.

Hushai could have certainly said, “No, David, I don’t think I’m going to do that, but you know I’m still your friend.” but he did not. He honored David’s request and was used to overthrow the coup planned by Absalom.

Proverbs 18:24 KJV 1900

24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: And there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

But Solomon is also very clear about selecting and proving friends.

Proverbs 6:3 KJV 1900

3 Do this now, my son, and deliver thyself, When thou art come into the hand of thy friend; Go, humble thyself, and make sure thy friend.

Proverbs 17:9 KJV 1900

9 He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; But he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.

Application Are you aware of the friends that you have in your life? Beyond just seeking self-satisfaction, are you being the friend that those around you need in their lives?

In school , you might notice a classmate struggling with loneliness or anxiety. Instead of just being a passive friend, take the initiative to reach out. Invite them to lunch or sit with them during breaks. This can dramatically shift their day from feeling isolated to feeling included and valued. By showing them that they are not alone, you are embodying the love of Christ, who calls us to bear one another’s burdens.

In your church community, you might encounter someone who seems to be in distress—perhaps a newly widowed member or a family facing financial struggles. Consider organizing a meal train or support group to relieve some of their burdens. By stepping into this giving role, you not only serve in a practical way but also foster genuine connections, embodying the care and compassion that reflect Jesus’ love among His followers.

On social media, you might observe friends posting about personal struggles or challenges. Instead of merely liking or reacting to their posts, take a moment to send them a private message checking in on them. Offer your support or just let them know you are praying for them. In a digital age where people often feel isolated, being a genuine friend who reaches out can be a source of great encouragement and reflection of Christ’s love.

2. Godly Counsel and God Centered Community

Ecclesiastes 4:4–6 KJV 1900

4 Again, I considered all travail, and every right work, that for this a man is envied of his neighbour. This is also vanity and vexation of spirit. 5 The fool foldeth his hands together, and eateth his own flesh. 6 Better is an handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit.

Perhaps highlight the futile nature of toil for personal gain and the emptiness of striving in isolation. These verses capture the exhausting competitiveness pervasive in society, contrasting it with the peace that contentment in Christ can bring. Encourage your listeners to pursue community rather than solitary success, and to find rest in God's promises. This speaks to the teaching that companionship finds its ultimate fulfillment in Christ, who provides what our competitive efforts cannot.

Once again, Solomon is using hyperbole here to emphasize the amount of time that he considered travail and every right work; however, I believe what he is saying here is that there are two types of people “under the sun”, those that will strive in their labor so compulsively, and those in envy of others, will forsake their labor this in pursuit of the “easy road”.

I think this is where we see things become so prevalent in our society of those that leech off of the system. How many people there have been that will fake an injury or disability only to get on the welfare system so that they can have everything that everyone else has provided to them at no cost and most often they do not care whatsoever what it will cost the rest of society for them to have such things.

We see Solomon make reference to the fool that eats his own flesh, which how ridiculous and foolish it would be for one to cut off pieces of their own flesh and try to eat it for sustenance. It is counter-intuitive and counter-productive, but there are so many people today that are trying to get a “free ride” in a society not realizing the harm and damage that is taking place.

Generally this all points back to perceived injustice in a world “under the sun.”

The answer is the change that only Jesus can make.

God desires community and good counsel for His children.

Proverbs 18:1 KJV 1900

1 Through desire a man, having separated himself, seeketh And intermeddleth with all wisdom.

Without God, and without godly counsel, especially in isolation, people will mess around with all types of things that they just have no business messing around with.

A study has shown that many of your “mediums” and people claiming to be able to “speak with the dead” often lived very secluded and lonely lives.

The Necessity of Community and Counsel:

Without counsel, people fall; but in the multitude of counselors there is safety. (Prov 11:14) Purposes are disappointed without counsel, but they become established through the multitude of counselors. (Prov 15:22) Pride alone brings contention, but wisdom dwells with those who are well advised. (Prov 13:10)

Proverbs 13:10 KJV 1900

10 Only by pride cometh contention: But with the well advised is wisdom.

Proverbs 15:22 KJV 1900

22 Without counsel purposes are disappointed: But in the multitude of counsellers they are established.

This is one of the strongest verses I think that supports that everything done in a church should be absolutely transparent and above the bar.

For one it helps ensure that there is agreement and a singleness of heart.

It holds everyone responsible.

It helps prevent malicious intent and selfish desires.

Proverbs 11:14 KJV 1900

14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: But in the multitude of counsellers there is safety.

Community as God’s Design:

Being many, believers are one body in Christ, with each person serving as members one of another. (Rom 12:4–5)

The whole body, fitly joined together and compacted by what every joint supplies, increases and edifies itself in love. (Eph 4:16)

Believers must not abandon gathering together but instead provoke one another toward love and good works, exhorting each other. (Heb 10:24–25)

Believers should comfort and edify one another. (1 Thess 5:11)

Confessing faults to one another and praying for each other brings healing. (James 5:16)

Romans 12:4–5 KJV 1900

4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: 5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

Ephesians 4:16 KJV 1900

16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.

Hebrews 10:24–25 KJV 1900

24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 KJV 1900

11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

James 5:16 KJV 1900

16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

Striving in isolation contradicts God’s design for human flourishing and spiritual maturity.

3. Lonely Success

Ecclesiastes 4:7–8 KJV 1900

7 Then I returned, and I saw vanity under the sun. 8 There is one alone, and there is not a second; yea, he hath neither child nor brother: yet is there no end of all his labour; neither is his eye satisfied with riches; neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave my soul of good? This is also vanity, yea, it is a sore travail.

Discuss the lonely life of a person who has achieved much according to the world's standards, yet finds no satisfaction because of their solitude. You could use these verses to show the irony and tragedy of success without companionship, urging listeners to recognize that true riches are found in relationships that mirror Christ’s unwavering friendship. Challenge your congregation to seek deeper connections that offer real joy and meaning.

Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs B. Coping in the Midst of Trials (4:4–12)

Sadly, many people continue to be workaholics even when there is no progeny to leave their wealth to.

The Parental Obligation:

Parents bear responsibility to provide for their children rather than expecting children to support them (2 Cor 12:14). Failing to provide for one’s own household—especially family members—constitutes a denial of faith and is worse than infidelity (1 Tim 5:8). A righteous person leaves an inheritance extending even to grandchildren, while the wealth of sinners ultimately transfers to the just (Prov 13:22).

Principles of Inheritance Distribution:

Houses and riches form the inheritance fathers pass down, though a prudent wife represents a gift from the Lord (Prov 19:14). The Old Testament established specific succession patterns: the firstborn son received a double portion of the father’s estate, regardless of which wife bore him (Deut 21:15–17). When a man died without a son, his inheritance passed to his daughter; if no daughter existed, it went to his brothers; failing that, to his father’s brothers; and ultimately to the nearest kinsman (Num 27:8–11).

Warnings Against Hasty Inheritance:

An inheritance obtained hastily at the beginning will not be blessed in the end (Prov 20:21). The parable of the prodigal son illustrates this danger, where a younger son demanded his portion prematurely, and the father divided his living between them (Luke 15:12)—resulting in the son’s squandering of his inheritance.

The Foundation of Cheerful Giving:

God loves a cheerful giver, and each person should give according to what they have purposed in their heart—not grudgingly or from necessity. (2 Cor 9:6–8) Those who give should do so with simplicity, and those who show mercy should do so with cheerfulness. (Rom 12:8) The one who sows sparingly will reap sparingly, while the one who sows bountifully will reap bountifully. (2 Cor 9:6–8)

The Willingness of Heart:

God instructed the Israelites to bring offerings from every person whose heart gave willingly. (Exod 25:2) Those whose hearts stirred them up and whose spirits made them willing brought offerings to the Lord’s work, including both men and women with willing hearts who brought precious items. (Exod 35:21–22) The people rejoiced because they offered willingly with perfect hearts to the Lord, and King David also rejoiced with great joy. (1 Chron 29:9)

The Blessings of Generous Giving:

One who scatters yet increases, while the liberal soul becomes fat, and the one who waters others will be watered themselves. (Prov 11:24–25) Give, and it will be given to you—good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over—for the measure you give will be measured back to you. (Luke 6:38) The person with a bountiful eye is blessed, for they give their bread to the poor. (Prov 22:9)

Giving in Secret and Proper Motivation:

Believers should not perform alms before others to be seen; rather, when giving alms, the left hand should not know what the right hand does, so that alms remain secret and the Father who sees in secret will reward openly. (Matt 6:1–4) It is more blessed to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35)

The widow’s offering exemplifies this principle: A poor widow threw two mites into the treasury, and Jesus declared she cast in more than all others, for while the rich cast in from their abundance, she cast in all she had from her want. (Mark 12:41–44)

4. Strength in Numbers

Ecclesiastes 4:9–12 KJV 1900

9 Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. 10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. 11 Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? 12 And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Explore these verses to illustrate the tangible benefits of collaboration and friendship—support, warmth, and protection. These qualities reflect the trinitarian nature of God and the love of Christ, who grants support and salvation. Encourage embracing community as a spiritual discipline, one that counters the world's ruthlessness with Christlike love and strength. This leads to practical steps on nurturing friendships that draw strength from God’s companionship.

Once again, even here in this passage, one could view this scripture in two ways.

Man under the sun

Man in the light of God

Man Under the Sun

This passage as viewed in the prospective of “under the sun” puts a very selfish and self-centered view point.

Now he is going to give some reasons for teaming up with someone else, but it will be a selfish reason—you may be sure of that. He says that two are better than one “because they have a good reward for their labour.” You'll be able to acquire more by teaming up with someone than by trying to do it alone.

This is certainly still true, but it comes right back to the root problem that acquiring things is still vanity of vanities and vexation of spirit.

Solomon made the discovery that attempting to live just for yourself doesn't mean you can go it alone. You need someone to help you and stand with you. “Woe to him that is alone when he falleth.” That is the reason they tell us to team up if we go on a hike rather than going alone. In case of an accident it is well to have someone else around. This is a problem of the many retired folk who live alone. They may fall and break a hip and be unable to get to the telephone. Sometimes it is a day or two before a neighbor looks in on them. So it is better that two be together. If one falls, the other can render help.

Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? [Ecc_4:11].

And then one member of a team can give warmth to the other member of the team. I remember during the ice storm several years ago now, we lost power for two weeks. We had some gas heat still but the house was cold. I remember this was before Oakley was born and poor Lucy would get close to one of us would be huddled up wherever we could get under a blanket. Even at that young age, she had an understanding of this.

And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken [Ecc_4:12].

If two is company, then three is a crowd, and sometimes it is well to have a crowd, especially if someone is coming against you.

We have problems with crime on our streets today. Often it is the person who is alone who is the victim of crime.

I am told that in times past in Washington, D.C., a woman would not be permitted to go alone to a public restroom. There must always be another to go along with her. It is tragic that we live in such a day.

The Bible teaches clearly that unregenerate man has a sinful nature. It should be obvious that “civilized” man has not lost his sinful nature and needs restraint rather than liberty.

The liberty being exercised in our day is the liberty to hold people up on the street, liberty to mug them, liberty to make obscene calls, liberty to blare out music that only one or two people want to hear, liberty to express oneself in any way.

My friend, liberty is not license. We need to change many of our concepts today.

You have liberty to swing your fist, but where my nose begins is where your liberty ends.

J. Vernon McGee

Just because there is strength in numbers, does not mean that the pursuit is righteous.

The self–centered man will not find satisfaction in this life. To be alone in your work may satisfy for a while, but finally you get tired of it. Most of us find that we don't like to go it alone.

Man in the Light of God.

Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs B. Coping in the Midst of Trials (4:4–12)

The Scriptures warn us about those who separate themselves from others (

Jesus sent His disciples out two by two.

Luke 10:1 KJV 1900

1 After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come.

Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs B. Coping in the Midst of Trials (4:4–12)

Unfortunately, true community is not what people in many churches really want. What they really desire is either people meeting their needs on their terms or what some prominent sociologists have labeled “lifestyle enclaves” (Bellah, et al., 71–75). Lifestyle enclaves are artificial communities. They are groups of people with the same socioeconomic background who exist solely to satisfy their individual and collective desires. This is not the biblical meaning of community.

From the institution of marriage to the practice of collective bargaining, generations of people have tested the truth of these words.

One of God's great gifts in helping us deal with problems of oppression, poverty, loneliness, and injustice is the company of others and how much better is this when God is in the midst.

Consider the lives of two couples: one thrives in the pursuit of financial gain, equating love with material possessions. When financial troubles strike, their relationship erodes. Another couple, however, builds their relationship on faith and mutual respect, weathering life's storms together. Ultimately, it is the latter who finds joy and strength in Christ, realizing that true love transcends financial security and is fortified in faith.

5. Wisdom in Relationships

Ecclesiastes 4:13–16 KJV 1900

13 Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish king, who will no more be admonished. 14 For out of prison he cometh to reign; whereas also he that is born in his kingdom becometh poor. 15 I considered all the living which walk under the sun, with the second child that shall stand up in his stead. 16 There is no end of all the people, even of all that have been before them: they also that come after shall not rejoice in him. Surely this also is vanity and vexation of spirit.

Conclude with the reminder that even the highest positions are fleeting without genuine relationships. These verses reflect on the fleeting nature of leadership and prestige if not grounded in meaningful human connections. Perhaps encourage the pursuit of influence not for power's sake, but to better serve others in the spirit of Christ, the servant king. This brings the sermon full circle: the ultimate example of companionship and leadership is embodied in Jesus.

Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish king, who will no more be admonished [Ecc_4:13].

Solomon was both—a wise child and a very foolish king, but notice he adds the phrase “who will no more be admonished.”

An American Dictionary of the English Language ADMONISH

ADMON´ISH, v. t. to teach, warn, admonish;

1. To warn or notify of a fault; to reprove with mildness.

The Value of Honest Reproof:

Open rebuke proves better than secret love, for the wounds inflicted by a faithful friend carry more value than the deceitful kisses of an enemy. (Prov 27:5–6)

Proverbs 27:5–6 KJV 1900

5 Open rebuke is better than secret love. 6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; But the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

One who rebukes another later finds greater favor than someone who flatters with their tongue. (Prov 28:23)

Hearing the rebuke of the wise surpasses listening to the song of fools. (Eccles 7:5)

Just as iron sharpens iron, a person refines the character of their friend. (Prov 27:17)

Receiving Reproof with Wisdom:

The ear that hears reproof of life remains among the wise, while refusing instruction despises one’s own soul—but hearing reproof brings understanding. (Prov 15:31–32)

A wise person will love you when rebuked, whereas a scorner should not be reproved lest they hate you. (Prov 9:8–9)

Poverty and shame come to those who refuse instruction, but those who regard reproof receive honor. (Prov 13:18)

A reproof penetrates a wise person far more deeply than a hundred stripes affect a fool. (Prov 17:10)

The Spirit of Godly Reproof:

When someone is overtaken in a fault, spiritual believers should restore such a person in the spirit of meekness, considering themselves lest they also be tempted. (Gal 6:1–2)

Speaking truth in love enables growth into Christ. (Eph 4:15)

If a brother trespasses, one should go and tell him his fault between themselves alone; if he hears, you have gained your brother. (Matt 18:15)

Believers should teach and admonish one another in all wisdom. (Col 3:16)

The Redemptive Purpose:

When someone errs from the truth and is converted, the one who turns the sinner from their error saves a soul from death and hides a multitude of sins. (James 5:19–20)

Godly reproof reflects Christ’s commitment to restoration rather than condemnation.

But for those that will not accept reproof and rebuke, the Bible is quite clear.

Proverbs 29:1 KJV 1900

1 He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, Shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

We see today on social media, at every corner you turn, you find the “influencer” and how each of these influencers are using their talent to get their “followers” to follow some trend, or buy some product, or so on and so forth.

I don’t think being an “influencer” is altogether a sin by the nature of it; however, what is the influence being used for?

However, just as political leaders come and go, influencers will come and go. The viewpoint of man under the sun says that “so what, new political leaders and monarchs will rise and fall, some will be worse than others and nothing will ever change,” but the viewpoint of the Christian should be that even though there will be new party leaders, candidates, policy changes, influencers, etc. I can be an influencer for Christ. I can admonish and influence those around me because of Christ, not for my own vain glory sake, but for the sake and the cause for Christ that I might have a great impact in leading the lost to Christ and to edify those that are in Him.

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