We ask this in the Mighty name of Jesus', Amen. A couple months ago Beth and I drove out to Quantico with Lydia to spend some time with James. What Does It Mean to Confess Our Faith in Jesus? Oxford Bible Church. On the side of their oppressors there was power, and there was no one to comfort them. Article Images Copyright , Why the Bible Says That Two Are Better Than One. This is how it should be for no-one is complete in themselves. Nobodies Of The Gospels Change). 5 The fool b folds his hands and c eats his own flesh. "For whom am I toiling," he asked, "and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?". We see five foundations for marriage in these verses. January 2018 November 2014 The . Love is not just given because the other has given first, but because of the Covenant they have freely made. Session 2: Seasons Change. His attitude - John 4:34: to do the will of His Father who is in heaven. This site is a proud member of the Salem Web Network, a subsidiary of, Copyright 2023, Crosswalk.com. Today you are being woven together into this threefold cord. Working. We want to provide easy to read articles that answer your questions about the meaning, origin, and history of specific verses within Scripture's context. When one of you falls or is opposed in some way at work, having friends to back you up and help you is a good thing. Marriage takes three; you, your soon to be spouse, and God. Theres absolutely no way I would have been able to rank second in a competition like this without the help of my partner. 14, The New American Commentary (Nashville: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1993), 308. ? You're Preaching, But Do You Know Who's Listening? Pictures and Artwork. God's infinite unselfish Love is shown in that He gave His Son to us to save us when we only deserved His judgement (John 3:16). October 2016 Leave a comment to ask questions or inspire others with your insights. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. 1 & 2 Kings Who You Were Made To Be // Going Deeper. Daniel How to Love a Friend. The best life lived is not one searching for things that will fade awaybut things that will last even through eternity. There were a lot of risks traveling by foot in Palestine. God Without Disguise But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Ephesians The author of Ecclesiastes says all other pursuits in life will leave you empty-handed and longing for more. Did you know that one Belgian draft horse is able to pull 8,000 pounds? Solomon might just be saying that there is safety in numbers. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. var addy_text51231 = 'obc.church' + '@' + 'yahoo' + '.' + 'co' + '.' + 'uk'; (See Proverbs 15:17, 17:1 .) Messy House James told me that he went to a wedding where the pastor preached a 45-minute Christ-centered sermon. James, your word is love. 6 10 For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint (Isaiah 40:29-31).Faith is not just believing in a God out there somewhere, but in a God who is real and here for us, Whom we trust in, and wrap our heart and personality around. Two are better than one Married life is infinitely to be preferred to this kind of life, for the very reasons alleged below, and which require no explanation. Answer In his pursuit of wisdom and learning, Solomon discovers that few things in life hold more value or enduring satisfaction than true friendship. This kind of covenant is the first kind that comes to mind when we think of marriage these days. But is this a misappropriated verse? Our life will always be about community with God and others. Bible Q&A: What Is The UnpardonableSin? Your Maker is Your Husband: The Divine Marriage Metaphor and the New Covenant Matthew Haste This article traces the biblical use of the divine marriage metaphor throughout the Scriptures revealing its unique place in revealing the contours of the new covenant. 11 Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. The Chord of 3 Strands. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! (v10). A Front Row Seat 2 So, rather than the living who still have lives to live, I congratulate the dead who have already met . Your comment will be posted after it is approved. The response to their weakness is to offer your strength to fill that gap. "And what did you learn from the story?" May 2012 January 2014 A marriage is especially strong if it is more than a bond between just two people. Finally, this a good time before we leave the emotions of this event, to realize we need God every day. #1. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.". 7. Verses 9-12 serve as a great contrast to verse 8, There was a man all alone; he had neither son nor brotherThis too is meaninglessa miserable business!The author describes the misery a person experiences when theyre alone and without others to be in relationship with. Many allude to two are better than one referring to marriage. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 says, "Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. "There is nothing sadder in the whole book than the wistful glance in Ecclesiastes 4:2-3 at the dead and the unborn, who are spared the sight of so much anguish." (Kidner) ii. 11 Also if two lie together, they can keep each other warm. 12 By yourself you're unprotected. 7 Ways to Study the Bible Like Billy Graham, What We Can Do Today to Reach People in Need, Carrie Underwood Sings 'Go Rest High On That Mountain' to Honor Vince Gill, 30 Morning Prayers to Start Each Day with God, Comforting Prayers and Verses When Life-Threatening Injuries Occur, Bills QB Josh Allen Describes 'Spiritual Awakening' after Hamlin Collapse: 'I Couldn't Deny' It, The Truth about Why Men Hate Going to Church. 4:9-12). January 2020 As Wright explains, This proverb applies to all relationships and is certainly relevant for members of the body of Christ.[4] But marriage does not seem to be Solomons focus. January 2021 Verse Only. Every hour. Please log in using one of these methods to post your comment: You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. For Ecclesiastes 9:9, Solomon is saying, "Since you only live for so long, enjoy life with the wife you love" and when he says "enjoy life" - he means in the full sense of "and Adam knew his wife Eve.". Its through relationship with others and God that we truly live the life God created for us. Never give up in your marriage or in the marriage of the people around you that you love. He exists within the community of the Trinity. i. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 NIV. Is it True for Christians That 'Once Saved, Always Saved'? This also is a vanity 1 and a striving after wind. After describing the roles in marriage, the Apostle Paul gives a one-verse summary of each of your responsibilities in Ephesians 5:33: However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.. God is the Third Cord in your marriage. Session 1: Meet the Author: Solomon, King of Israel. The first pair of people in biblical history came about through the need for companionship. A weakness in the other is not for you to judge and feel superior, but is instead an opportunity to show your love in giving help. August 2015 Lord you are the Creator, Savior, and Designer of marriage, we call upon you this afternoon, praying that you be glorified by what takes place here. The Bible teaches that marriage is to be a permanent relationship of one man and one woman freely and totally committed to each other as companions for life. These are the hands of your best friend. In moments of temptation, it is far better to have someone beside you to keep you accountable and help prevent you from falling into sin. And Im glad that Lon is doing all the official elements so I can just focus on the joy of watching God do His work here. September 2020 December 2020 October 2012 February 2011 In fact, the very nature of Marriage is that two very different people are joined, so that each one gives of their strengths to fill the others weaknesseses. It continues to be true over and over again. Seeds Of Hope Hebraic Analysis for Genesis 18-1-15.pdf. They love because the Covenant requires it, not because the other deserves it. Look for a community of people that will build you up, fill you up with the Holy Spirit, and encourage you . Start for FREE. Look for that person today! 9Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. Are We Ready for Our Journey to Eternity? Treasury of Scripture Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor. But his commentary goes further in saying that there is no denial here "of personal, conscious presence with God immediately after death of the body" (p. 102). Wednesday, December 28, 2022 - Marriage - Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Marriage (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12) | Calvary Chapel Church Greeneville Sundays In-person 10:00 AM & Wednesday 6:30 PM / Watch Online Livestream or Facebook All Rights Reserved. J. Alec Motyer and Derek Tidball, The Bible Speaks Today (England: Inter-Varsity Press, 1984), 51. Third, the perfect and glorious labor of the Son of God. John March 2013 It was God who taught us to love. Amen! That this ceremony would honor you, and reflect the seriousness of the vows to be spoken. The boy thought for a moment and answered, "If youre having a wedding, make sure Jesus is there!" Bibliographical Information Clarke, Adam. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 Two are better than one a cord of three strands is not easily broken Scripture Vinyl Bible master bedroom ECCL4V9-0001. The purpose of lying together is for warmthnot sexual intercourse. June 2015 7 u Again, I saw vanity under the sun: 8 one person who . January 2013 2:4), and biblical love requires they support one another during times of hardship (For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.) Only in the marriage relationship is the intimacy of the sexual relationship both permitted and encouraged by God (Heb. Im a bit of a competitive person in this area of my life, and I was concerned I would lack control to move at the pace I was comfortable with. May 2016 May 2019 . The Christian faith has never been about solely building your relationship with Jesus, but about how the redemption received in Jesus needs to be shared with others. 10 For if they fall, one will help up his companion. But it turned out those were the areas where my partner excelled. But the gathering of fellow believers is also for the benefit of us as individuals. September 2018 This is much of the thread that is followed throughout the first four chapters, until we arrive at verse 9-12. February 2013 Try Bible Gateway Plus free today! Not only is this the example we have been given, but it comes with great benefits. Copyright Statement These files are public domain. If we stay close to Him, we will form a 3-Stranded Rope that cannot be broken:He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. What Is the Difference Between Prophetic Words and the Word of God? Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; Because they have a good reward for their labor. 10 Must-Have Tips For Giving A Public Invitation, I'd Rather Preach To Angels Than A Megachurch Crowd, Five Preaching Applications From The Movie Gravity. Try. Marriage, of course, involves the closest of friendships. October 2014 KJV, The King James Study Bible, Red Letter, Full-Color Edition: KJV Holy Bible, KJV Bible, Giant Print Thinline Bible, Vintage Series, Red Letter, Comfort Print: King James Version, KJV Study Bible, Large Print, Red Letter Edition: Second Edition, KJV, Value Thinline Bible, Large Print, Red Letter Edition, Comfort Print: Holy Bible, King James Version, KJV, Thinline Bible, Large Print, Red Letter Edition, Comfort Print: Holy Bible, King James Version, KJV, Journal the Word Bible, Large Print, Red Letter Edition: Reflect, Journal, or Create Art Next to Your Favorite Verses. This is the kind of love that God has for us. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 9-12 Surely he has more satisfaction in life, who labours hard to maintain those he loves, than the miser has in his toil. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. In Ecc. But how can one keep warm alone? [3] Derek Kidner, The Message of Ecclesiastes: A Time to Mourn, and a Time to Dance, ed. Luke And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him a threefold cord is not quickly broken (vs. 9-12). J.C. Ryle Expository Thoughts On Mark - Mark 1:40-45. I promise I won't share your e-mail address with anyone. March 2021 If one individual and another individual make a twofold cord, the threefold cord must have an additional element that we can infer to be God Almighty. For less than $5/mo. For, when Michael and May Kim are joined in marriage they covenanted before God and man to travel life now together. April 2021 Get our app to see bulletins, watch live video, give online, and more! With a friend you can face the worst. Within the competition there were different types of workouts included that would be measured in different ways. July 2014 TEAMWORK IS PROFITABLE - Vs. 9 "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour." TEAMWORK IS PROTECTIVE - Vs. 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." America would do well to hear and heed . Dr. Kaiser's commentary says that Ecclesiastes 9:4-5 and verse 10 present "no denial of a future state"which is true, as these verses allow for a future resurrection. That is false. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 presents marriage as teamwork, and reminds us how marriage is strengthened with God at the core. Judges From the very beginning, God created us to be in relationship with others. On behalf of Andrea and Bradley, We would like to welcome you, family and friends to this special occation. When someone is good at their job, it can cause others to be jealous of them (v. 4). November 2013 But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. This speaks of emotional support that we need to give when the other needs it. February 2012 I want to be your daddy, not the pastor who does your wedding. Solomon rightly said that there are 4 rewards for companionship: 1) a companion helps you get more done, 2) a companion helps you when you are . When you do, God will bring warmth to you. Every Sunday the worship service includes a message from the Bible. At SACC we believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God. We are to give warmth to each other, giving hugs (physically and emotionally). 9 Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. December 2017 12 Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. January 2012 So to sum up, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 as written in its context is not talking about married couples. showAlert=(alertMessage !== ''); 9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. January 2017 However, the principles laid out in these verses in the context of talking about the value of having friends in the workplace also have application to marriage. The wisdom shown in these four verses can be agreed with, even if you dont consider yourself a follower of Jesus. To save items to a SermonFolder, please sign in to your account. April 2014 5:17). The last portion of the passage refers to a threefold cord. March 2016 Who You Were Made To Be // Going Deeper. January 2015 The Bible teaches that marriage is to be a permanent relationship of one man and one woman freely and totally committed to each other as companions for life. What does it mean that we have eternity in our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11). March 2019 But its not only in the wisdom literature that we see the benefits of community, this is actually a principle all throughout Scripture. [1] Duane A. Garrett, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, vol. Most of what he dove into like pleasure, partying, and the pursuit of possessions left him feeling flat and unsatisfied. GOD-CENTRED MARRIAGE (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12):Two are better than one,because they have a good return for their work(the investment they put into their relationship):(1) If one falls down, his friend can help him up.But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If . For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. 10 Must-Have Tips For Giving A Public Invitation, I'd Rather Preach To Angels Than A Megachurch Crowd, Five Preaching Applications From The Movie Gravity. Enter your email address and we will send you a link to reset your password. 2 Corinthians October 2010 These are the hands, which appear so large and strong today will work long hours for you and your family and they are the hands which will passionately love and cherish you throughout the years - the same hands will wipe away tears of sorrow and tears of joy from your eyes. But I quickly realized there was a tremendous advantage to competing together, with a partner. February 2010 Read Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (New King James Version) here "Two are better than one, November 2011 It guarantees the feelings stay alive and protects the relationship from a downward spiral of each withdrawing love in revenge against the other being selfish. So, who is this 3rd Strand, who will make all the difference? This is not how we are meant to live! Read the Scripture: Ecclesiastes 4:9-16 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. If God is not placed first in every liaison that we human beings make (marriage, friendship, or church fellowship) the relationship will be short lived. iii. Ecclesiastes 4:9-11 NIV 9 Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: 10 If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But how can one keep warm alone? For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. var prefix = 'ma' + 'il' + 'to'; Which means we are not here to honor Andrea and Bradley but to honor and worship God who has brought them together. The goal of LifeLight is that through a regular program of in-depth personal and group study of Scripture, more and more Christian adults may grow in their personal faith in Jesus Christ. This is futile and a grievous affliction. "Solomon didn't urge the jet-set life but common things to enjoy right at home." This inspired, preserved wisdom commends the enjoyment of: Happy, leisurely meals eaten together. By the end of the competition, we placed second in my division. 13:4; 1 Cor. November 2015 ? Might this ceremony be a proper beginning for Andera and Bradley as they commit themselves before these wittensis to pursue a Christ-centered life together. April 2018 4: generatio praeterit et generatio advenit terra vero in aeternum stat. Ecclesiastes 4:10 For if one falls down, his companion can lift him up; but pity the one who falls without another to help him up! But this wisdom doesnt only prove itself to be true in trivial moments like this. More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free! Thus husband and wife are to wrap them themselves around each other, emotionally and physically, giving love and support "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall CLEAVE (be united) unto his wife: and they shall be ONE flesh" (Genesis 2:24).That which binds the strands is LOVE - the KEY to a SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE. 6 Primarily, this passage is about the value of friendship. In Chapter 2, Solomon referred to the woes of royal . June 2013 This kind of love is as interested in what I can give as I can get. And He makes this kind of love available to us, so that we can love like Him. December 2012 The portion about the third cord being God is questionable, because the point of this book is to explain what life is like apart from God (see verse 7). People are eager and appreciative when wise leadership replaces foolish. January 2019 July 2017 May you find meaning and hope as you read through each message and seek to hear God's voice. September 2019 The Cord of Three Strands symbolizes the joining of one man and one woman by God into a marriage relationship. Ecclesiastes: Baker Commentary on the Old Testament Wisdom & Psalms by Craig Bartholomew. Two together can accomplish four times as much when they work as one! There may be a tangential application to marriage. Many have used this passage as part of their marriage ceremony, and it is certainly appropriate. Thankfully, God has promised to never leave us or forsake us, and He is constantly working to bring us strength and encouragement through the people around us if we will only open up our hearts and receive it. October 2018 October 2020 November 2012 Easter Its within the context of relationship that the body of Christ thrives. Solomon transitions into a pragmatic commentary likely spurred by the story of the lonely workaholic. 4:9-12 ~ Pastor Carl Crouse. (3) Though one may be overpowered,two can defend themselves.A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.Two are better than one (if they are united that is!). Together, as a team, her hands in yours, your wishes will be realized. Jesus performed his first miracle at a wedding. (2) Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him. If they pull in opposite directions that is different of course! Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 The Lexham English Bible (LEB) 9 Two are better than the one, for they enjoy a better reward for their toil. May 2020 July 2013 In fact He has revealed His inner nature as being 3 Persons (Father, Son and Spirit) intertwined together in one (as one Being), bound together in unity in perfect Love, just like a rope of 3 strands. Ecclesiastes 4:9 Context. Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. "Commentary on Ecclesiastes 4:9". What happens when you both fall down? But how can one keep warm alone? Might it be instructive to those considering such a commitment in their future. February 2018 And not just in times of crisis. One of the keywords in these verses is better. The writer is stating that a better way, a more fruitful way to live life is alongside other people. 7:1-5), thus having application to Solomons point that if two lie together, they keep warm. Jesus also pointed out that it is God who is the third party in a marriage in that he is the one who joins husband and wife together (Matt. Without a doubt, the book of Ecclesiastes is unique in its style and even its overall theme. June 2016 lets extend it to the marriage as well ~ make sure Jesus is there! Scriptures: Izzy is recently married and since her big day, she's been able to add her own experience of the planning process to her articles. Help her to know that she is secure in your love. Pastors often say that the third cord is God in Christian marriage. [2] Michael A. Eaton, Ecclesiastes: An Introduction and Commentary, vol. What does it mean to be overrighteous and overwise (Ecclesiastes 7:16)? June 2020 Whatever your marriage is like today, it may be different tomorrow. Copyright Guides for Brides, 2023. It is our hope that these will help you better understand the meaning and purpose of God's Word in relation to your life today. My Messy House June 2017 Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 The Message 9-10 It's better to have a partner than go it alone. Ecclesiastes 4:13-16 meaning. I assumed that he didnt want theirs that long so I said, So, you dont want anything real preachy or long, right? He quickly replied, Actually, I do want it Christ-centered, preachy and long!, Ill aim for two out of three because I dont think the rest of us can handle long today, Becca just read from the Book of Ecclesiastes, which is a journal that describes the journey King Solomon took in his search for significance and meaning in life. August 2014 The statement of two being better than one is true in many different life circumstances all across time. September 2010 Verse 9: Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. A marriage wont make it without a lot of work but theres a reward when both work together. Chapter 4 deals mainly with the inequalities of life and Solomon bemoans the terrible acts of oppression, the shocking discrimination, and the lust to control the minds of others, by certain individuals that seemed to characterise the days of Solomon and is so prevalent in today's society. Check. December 2019 A boy sat through a Sunday School class and learned about Jesus attending a wedding and miraculously turned the water into wine. January 2011 Five for the ladies and five for the men. Golden Spirit: Joseon Marriage Prohibition, Geumhonryung, Joseon's Ban on Marriage, Joseon Marriage Ban, Geumhonryeong: Joseon Honin Geumjiryeong, : . But Christians often use this passage to apply to Christian marriage. February 2016 January 2010 December 2016 Follow Pre-Denominational Christianity on WordPress.com, Some Questions About Church Discipline Jon Mitchell, Editor (Editorial: November/December, 2022). They assist each other by encouragement, or friendly reproof. Life is better when theres more than one of us. 1. In moments of despair, its far better to have someone alongside you to encourage you and to combat the lies or negative thoughts that fight for your attention. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 NIV. Respect him and celebrate his significance. Not only because of the way it will personally benefit you, but because its the greatest way to display the glory of God. January 2016 Marriage: A Cord of Three Strands ~ Ecc. alertMessage = value.detail.message ?? The purpose is for each believer to serve as part of the whole. 6 d Better is a handful of e quietness than two hands full of toil and a striving after wind. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10: "Two are better than one, / Because they have a good reward for their labor. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! Leave a comment to ask questions or inspire others with your insights.In general, the previous Sunday's sermon will be posted by Tuesday afternoon. It's only the pursuit of loving God and loving others that will truly give you. Listen to verse 10: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. Not directly, as weve seen by examining the context. Then you need a Third One to lift you up, to keep you lifted up. To save items to a SermonFolder, please sign in to your account. September 2015 King James Version (KJV). December 2009 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. Ecclesiastes 4:9 (King James Version) 4:1 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. April 2019 Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 Read More. 4:9-12, marriage is a journey. February 2014 Ecclesiastes 12, Ecclesiastes 4:9-12, Ecclesiastes 5:4-6, Ephesians 5:33, Mark 10:9, Sermon Topics: //