Are you ready to uncover the deeper meanings behind life’s perplexities? Philip Ryken’s insightful interpretation of Ecclesiastes is not just another commentary – it’s a profound journey into understanding how every aspect of life, from its joys to its trials, holds significance through the lens of faith.
Thought to be about the meaninglessness of life, Ryken shows us that the futility and despair of life “under the sun” highlights our need for a divine perspective. By examining life’s struggles and apparent absurdities from this perspective, he highlights the need for a saviour and a God–cantered worldview. The book tackles various existential themes such as hedonistic pleasure, the pursuit of work, justice, and human suffering, ultimately pointing to the hope and satisfaction found in Jesus Christ.
Accessible and applicable, Ryken bridges ancient wisdom with contemporary relevance. Whether you’re a pastor, student, or layperson, this concise yet thorough examination of Ecclesiastes is a valuable resource or enriching your personal study or equipping you for teaching others.
Philip G. Ryken became President of Wheaton College in July 2010. Prior to that he was Senior Minister of Tenth Presbyterian Church, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He is also a prolific author and a member of the council of The Gospel Coalition.
Table of Contents
Preface vii
1 Why Bother? 1
2 The Ultimate Quest 17
3 Meaningful Hedonism 31
4 Working Things Out 45
5 All in Good Time 59
6 Death and Injustice 73
7 Satisfaction Not Guaranteed 87
8 The Crook in the Lot 101
9 Don't Forget! 115
10 The Final Analysis 127
What People are Saying About This
From the Publisher
... Why Everything Matters is a remarkable read that will inform and elevate every heart with essential wisdom for living a life that matters. ~ R. Kent Hughes (Senior Pastor Emeritus, College Church, Wheaton, Illinois) •.. I've preached through Ecclesiastes once and am not so sure I got it right. That's why when I preach the book again I will have Philip Ryken's warm and insightful book at the top of my resource list. ~ Bryan Loritts (Pastor for Preaching and Mission, Trinity Grace Church and President, The Kainos Movement, New York City) •.. a wonderful treatment of the book of Ecclesiastes. In his study of the text the author beautifully blends the mind of a scholar with the heart of a pastor. It is a faithful exposition of a book that is troubling to many. ~ Daniel L. Akin (President, Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, Wake Forest, North Carolina)
