As a Man Comes, So he Departs
Ecclesiastes Chapters 4-6
The Tears of the Oppressed
These three chapters contain a collection of thoughts generally related to wealth. The profound skepticism of the Ecclesiast introduced in the first three chapters continues in this investigation of the value of any earthly exercise. The section starts out with a discussion of oppression (4:1) then introduces the value of community (4:10). Finally, there is an extended section on ultimate value (5:11).
Certainly we must pay careful attention to the concern the Ecclesiast expresses for the oppressed. Our Lord announced (Luke 4:16-21) and confirmed (Luke 7:18-23) his ministry in terms of his service to the poor, the disadvantaged, and the oppressed. If we have any ministry at all it must be defined in the same terms.
In the West, we are nearly all wealthy by the standards of the world, and most of us espouse a work ethic based on the idea that the Lord helps those that help themselves. While there may be some truth to the idea at some times, as a maxim it does not stand up to even modest scrutiny. Our piety does not ensure our prosperity, nor does the suffering of others signal their sin. Our God will have mercy on whom he will have mercy (Exodus 33:19).
And so, if the fate of the oppressed is no fault of their own, what business is it of ours? The Ecclesiast tells us that all of the wealthy are complicit in the oppression of the poor (5:8-9). Though we may each work hard for what we have, it is the nature of our value system that what we have is not had by others. Until we live in a perfect system, the comfort we earn for ourselves is also paid for by the oppression of others.
You Cannot Take it with You
Two similar passages deal with the ephemeral nature of wealth (5:10-17; 6:7-11). Acquisition leads to acquisition. Satiety is so illusive and so fleeting that pursuit is constant. Such realization prompted Paul to declare, not material things themselves, but the desire for them, to be the impetus of all sorts of evil (1 Timothy 6:7-11). And what we can acquire we cannot keep. Wealth is a thing of this world and will not pass into the next. The Ecclesiast observes the futility of this, but rests in the assurance that true gifts come from God (James 1:17) who can bless our transitory existence with lasting meaning (5:18-20).
Will God, then, clear for us our consciences and allow us to enjoy our riches? The Biblical evidence against this egregiously facetious postulation is overwhelming. The idea, in fact, is foolish, in a very serious sense of the term (Luke 12:16-21). This parable suggests the idea of “laying up” treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21). But how do we on earth establish treasure in heaven?
Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. (Matthew 25:37-40 KJV)
