Keep The King's Command

This morning as we continue in our study through the book of Ecclesiastes, we consider Ecclesiastes 8:1-9. The Preacher presents wisdom in dealing with kings, rulers, and authorities. In light of the power that kings possessed in the Ancient Near East, those who dealt with a king needed to have careful wisdom and insight. A wise person knows the proper time, place, and way to share advice and opinions. A wise person also recognizes the limitations of those who seem to have absolute power. "No man has power to retain the spirit, or power over the day of death. There is no discharge from war, nor will wickedness deliver those who are given to it" (Ecclesiastes 9:8).

The principles of this passage can be applied to rulers and authorities in our lives, but this passage also points forward to keeping the King of King's command. Many of us will not approach a president, governor, or mayor, but we will all approach King Jesus and live under his rule and reign. Jesus is a good and king King who used and uses his power not to hurt others, but to help. When he came to earth, he wasn't a self-serving tyrant, but a self-giving servant. We show our love for Jesus by keeping his command, which could be summarized in the Great Commandment and Great Commission.