From Mark Copeland... Work Out Your Own Salvation (Philippians 2:12-18)

                    "THE EPISTLE TO THE PHILIPPIANS"

                  Work Out Your Own Salvation (2:12-18)

INTRODUCTION

1. One of the things that interests me about Paul's writings is that he
   is intensely practical

2. He always relates...
   a. Doctrine and duty
   b. Creed and character
   c. Faith and life
   ...to him, these are inseparable!

3. So it is now, that having described the example of Christ, he bases
   upon that example his exhortation to earnest endeavor towards
   spiritual progress (Php 2:12-18)

4. In this passage, Paul exhorts Christians to "Work Out Your Own
   Salvation"; in this lesson, there are several observations I would
   like to make concerning what this involves

[First, consider that as you "Work Out Your Own Salvation" that...]

I. THERE ARE TWO KINDS OF OBEDIENCE (12a)

   A. THAT DONE ONLY IN THE PRESENCE OF OTHERS...
      1. This is a very common form of obedience
         a. Done only when others are around
         b. Because we fear what others might think if we don't behave a
            certain way
      2. Yet Paul did not want the Philippians' obedience to be of this
         sort
         a. For then it would only be what he calls elsewhere
            "eye-service" - cf. Col 3:22
         b. Their faith would then be an "environmental faith" (a faith
            which is active only if the environment is conducive to it)

   B. THAT DONE IN THE ABSENCE OF OTHERS...
      1. This is the proper form of obedience
         a. Done to please God, conscience, and no one else!
         b. This type of obedience remains faithful no matter what
            others do or think
      2. It is this type of obedience...
         a. That Paul hoped for in the lives of his beloved friends
         b. That we should render in our service to the Lord and His
            cause

[Secondly, we should also bear in mind that as you "Work Out Your Own
Salvation"...]

II. IT INVOLVES THE WORKING OF BOTH MAN AND GOD (12b-13)

   A. MAN HAS A ROLE TO PLAY IN HIS SALVATION...
      1. He must "work out" his salvation
         a. As Peter preached on the Day of Pentecost - Ac 2:40
         b. And also wrote later to Christians - 2Pe 1:10
         -- Therefore man is not totally passive (or helpless) when it
            comes to his salvation!
      2. He must also have "fear and trembling" in working out his
         salvation
         a. There is a place for the right kind of fear in the life of a
            Christian
            1) The "fear of the Lord" is the beginning of knowledge
               - Pr 1:7
            2) The "fear of the Lord" will cause one to hate evil
               - Pr 8:13
            3) The "fear of the Lord" will prolong life - Pr 10:27
            4) The "fear of the Lord" provides strong confidence and is
               a fountain of life - Pr 14:26-27
            5) The "fear of the Lord" prompts one to depart from evil
               - Pr 16:6
            6) The "fear of the Lord" leads to a satisfying life, and
               spares one from much evil - Pr 19:23
            7) The "fear of the Lord" is the way to riches, honor, and
               life! - Pr 22:4
         b. Prompted by the "fear of the Lord" to hate evil, depart from
            it, and turn to God where they will find wisdom, life and
            honor, they will also come to find that love which dispels
            any improper kind of "fear" - cf. 1Jn 4:17-18
         c. But many never experienced such love from God because they
            have not had the "fear and trembling" in the first place!

   B. BUT GOD IS ALSO VERY MUCH INVOLVED IN OUR SALVATION!
      1. Notice that Paul writes "for it is God who works in you"
         a. We are not alone in our efforts to serve God
         b. God is always there to help us along
      2. In what way does God "work" in us?  Paul identifies two ways:
         a. "to will" - God helps us in our desire and motivation to do
            His will
         b. "to do" - He works right along together with us!
      3. This does not deny that man is a free moral agent...
         a. Paul has already said to "work out your own salvation"
         b. But when we offer ourselves in service to God, He becomes
            our partner, our "co-pilot" - cf. He 13:20-21
            1) At our conversion, He begins a new work in us, and
               intends to complete it - cf. Php 1:6
            2) Through His indwelling Spirit and Son, He gives us
               whatever strength we need - Ep 3:16; Php 4:13
            3) So that, whatever we may become in the Lord, it is by His
               grace! - 1Co 15:10
         c. Unfortunately, many Christians hinder God's work in them by
            their lukewarm attitude (or is it their lack of faith in
            God?)!
         d. God can work (and is willing!), but only if we let Him!
      4. Knowing that God is at work IN us, this ought to provide
         further motivation to work OUT our salvation!

[As we read on, we learn that one is to "Work Out Your Own Salvation"...]

III. DOING SO WITHOUT MURMURING AND DISPUTING (14)

   A. MURMURING WAS THE DOWNFALL OF ISRAEL...
      1. Notice 1Co 10:10-12
      2. This can also be a problem among many Christians today whenever
         they face hardships
      3. But we are told that God is ever ready to help us (1Co 10:13),

and that He is in us both to "will" and to "work"
         (Php 2:13), so why complain?
      4. Rather, rejoice for the opportunity such "tribulations" give us
         to develop spiritually! - Ro 5:3-5; Jm 1:2-4

   B. DISPUTING OFTEN FOLLOWS MURMURING...
      1. Those who murmur are likely to be the same ones who begin
         disputing with others
      2. All it accomplishes is ill will, and in many cases, unnecessary
         division
      3. Shall we dare destroy the unity for which Christ died on the
         cross to attain?

[We need to heed Paul's exhortation to "Work Out Your Own Salvation"...]

IV. SO YOU CAN SHINE AS LIGHTS IN THE WORLD (15-16)

   A. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST BE CHILDREN OF GOD WITHOUT FAULT...
      1. Which is possible only if we "become blameless and harmless"
      2. Which requires doing all things "without murmuring and
         disputing"
      3. Which can only happen if we allow God to "work in" us as we
         "work out" our own salvation; in other words...
         a. Allow God go forgive us in obedience to the gospel
         b. Allow God to strengthen us through His Word and prayer
         c. Allow God to change us in conformity to His Will

   B. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST BE "IN THE MIDST" OF CROOKED AND
      PERVERSE GENERATION...
      1. Lights are valuable only if they are used to dispel darkness
         - cf. Mt 5:14-15
      2. Though we are to "be separate" from the world (2Co 6:14-18),
         we must "not isolate" ourselves from it - cf. Jn 17:15,18;
         1Co 5:9-11
      3. We must associate with those in the world in order to be a
         positive influence

   C. TO SHINE AS LIGHTS, WE MUST "HOLD FAST" THE WORD OF LIFE...
      1. Some translations read "hold forth"
      2. Certainly we should do both...
         a. "hold fast" the Word of life (by our study and obedience to
            it) - 2Ti 2:15
         b. "hold forth" the Word of life (by offering it to those in
            the world) - Mk 16:15
      3. In both ways, we are to be like "The Statue Of Liberty"
         a. Showing the way
         b. Offering hope to those in need

[Acting as "lights in the world", we bring great joy to those who taught
us the Word of God (16).

Finally, Paul writes that as you "Work Out Your Own Salvation", it
should include...]

V. REJOICING IN YOUR SACRIFICES (17-18)

   A. WE MAY BE CALLED UPON TO SACRIFICE OURSELVES...
      1. It may be in service to our own faith, or in the service of the
         faith of others
      2. It may be a sacrifice of time, energy, money, or even life
         itself
      3. But it is for a good cause, and this is how Paul viewed his
         possible execution for the cause of Christ

   B. SUCH SACRIFICES CAN BE AN OCCASION FOR GLADNESS AND REJOICING!
      1. This is how Paul viewed it
      2. For he knew his sacrifices were in the cause of saving others
      3. And he knew that their salvation would ultimately bring him
         greater joy at Christ's coming - cf. 1Th 2:19-20
      4. Does not the prospect of seeing each other in the presence of
         the Lord at His coming...
         a. Make any sacrifice for one another worthwhile?
         b. Constitute good reason to be glad and rejoice in sacrificial
            service?

CONCLUSION

1. Such are some of the things involved in the salvation God offers

2. Are they included in YOUR efforts to "Work Out Your Own Salvation"?

3. As someone has suggested:  "Work as though it all depended upon you,
   but pray as though it all depended upon God"

4. Indeed we should, for as we work out our salvation, it is God who is
   working in us!

Are you doing YOUR part?

Executable Outlines, Copyright © Mark A. Copeland, 2011

From Jim McGuiggan... GOD AND WRATH

GOD AND WRATH

“Anger” is a response and not a constituent element of a person. Anger isn’t built into us as if it exists in some compartment waiting to express itself; it isn’t there every nanosecond of our existence. We may be cheerful one moment and angry the next; we may be angry for days or weeks but it is a response to some situation that doesn’t sit right with us.

Associated with anger are terms like displeasure, protest, rebuke—the kind of activities that are sometimes called “negative”. We don’t go around all the time displeased, protesting and rebuking because anger doesn’t exist where there is nothing to trigger it. Sometimes people are angry and we don’t know why (sometimes they don’t know why) but because we don’t know why doesn’t mean there isn’t a reason.

If A is angry we don’t expect her anger to result in sweet talk and gentleness though she may control her anger and speak amiably but then it isn’t her anger that is producing the friendly speech—it is something else. Because anger includes the notion of displeasure we don’t expect it to be associated with a pleasing response but when the situation is resolved the anger that exists because of the troubling situation disappears/dissipates.

Without entering into a linguistic debate we have reason to believe that God responds in what we call “anger” (an older word would be “wrath”). The human family has behaved and can behave in a way that displeases God and leads him to express himself in protest, rebuke and chastisement. His anger is not like ours in any of the tragic ways our can show itself. Our angry response can be vindictive, vengeful, over-the-top or something like that. That’s not because anger is a bad thing but because we are sinful people and we can abuse even things that are not bad. God’s anger is always warranted, is not spiteful or vengeful and always has an overarching redemptive purpose. [He deals with individuals, of course, but even when dealing with individuals he is working within his intention and purposes related to the human family as a family.]

We’re not to think of God as restless and ceaselessly foaming at the mouth, eager to blast the transgressors into oblivion; the kind that has to be bribed into a good mood or a kind attitude—Jesus has brought a final and glorious end to such thinking as he confirmed the OT witness to God’s commitment to humanity’s blessing in a new creation.

Rabbi Heschel has taught us that God’s wrath exists in order to destroy what generated the wrath to begin with. It isn’t a divine sulk or supernatural spite that lashes out at those who displease him. It is God working to uproot the trees of wickedness we plant within us or around us; uprooting them even when it brings us pain. It is God putting us to grief for our own individual sake and/or the sake of the family as a whole. Walter Moberly has taught us, the wrath may be experienced as mere retribution but it isn’t intended as mere retribution it has a redemptive purpose that is never to be severed from the welfare of the family as a family. [A disruptive child, refusing pleas and reasoning, may be sent to his room and experience it merely as punishment but he is being excluded 1) for the benefit of the other children and 2) in hope that he will experience a change of mind and cease his disruptive ways.]

It’s probably a mistake to speak of human repentance or Jesus’ saving life and death as “satisfying” the wrath of God because that suggests “wrath” has some kind of standard that must be met; it gives it a kind of autonomous existence—something that exists alongside God that must be placated. Wrath doesn’t exist apart from God! Wrath is God responding; God’s anger is God being angry. If we’re to satisfy anything we’re to satisfy God who is such a being that he has the capacity for anger at unrighteousness and has the capacity for seeking the redemption of the transgressors and not just their punishment.

Transgression is not external to the transgressor. Sin is a sinner expressing him/herself and when God deals with sin in an individual he must deal with the individual because sin is nothing other than the sinner in action—sins and sinners can and must be differentiated but when sins are being dealt with they must be dealt with “in” the sinner. [I recognize that “sin” is a much more complex reality than I’m sketching here but it’s nevertheless true that a surgeon who deals with a patient’s tumour doesn’t operate on the bench the patient lies on. Whatever else God does in working with a person’s sin he must work with the sinning person.]

God’s wrath is our assurance that oppression, abuse and immorality in all their forms are contrary to his character and will. The people who cannot be angered by anything are not more saintly because that’s true—they have something missing in them that should frighten and/or repulse us.

A person who would be perpetually wrath-filled would be a nightmare. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ is well illustrated by Jesus himself when sometimes we see him anger-filled and at other times we find him filled with joy and pleasure. The balance is there in perfection.

©2004 Jim McGuiggan. All materials are free to be copied and used as long as money is not being made.

Many thanks to brother Ed Healy, for allowing me to post from his website, the abiding word.com.

From Ben Fronczek... Acts 27 Paul’s Encouragement

Acts 27 Paul’s Encouragement

Acts 27  Paul’s Encouragement

Question? Have you ever been to the point where you actually feared for your life; when in a situation, you thought that you may actually die? Maybe some of you have. Maybe when you were in a really bad car accident, or maybe when at one time you got really, really sick. Maybe on one of those occasions you thought, ‘This is it, I may die here!’ I have to admit, even though I’ve had a few accidents and have gotten pretty sick a number of times, I have never got to that point where I thought that my life might be over. Like a lot of you, I’ve experienced heart shaking, traumatic events that shook me to the core: Like when our first son died a week or so before he entered the world; or when my dad died unexpectedly at the age of 67.  Those events really got me shook up. Most of us probably have had one or more of those bad experiences that shake us up and bring us to our knees.  On those occasions we didn’t need any prophets of doom and gloom complaining around us, rather we need to be comforted. And after it’s all said and done, and those situations or events have passed by, and most of the hurt is gone, eventually, you can talk to others about your experience.  Somehow God can use our experience to help others when they are in distress. As one studies the life of Apostle Paul, you read that this man had his share of life shaking, traumatic events. I’m sure that more than once he thought that his life was over.  (see: 2 Corinthians. 11:22-27) But as a result of those experiences, rather than becoming a bitter old man, we read that he learned to encourage others and taught others to do the same. Concerning this matter he wrote something very profound to those in the Corinthian church;  

Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-7. “ Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,  who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.  For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ.  If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer.  And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.”

Paul was a guy who not only experience some traumatic events in his life, he probably thought he was at the brink of death on some of those occasions. (Like when he was stoned and left for dead (Acts 14:19)) And in those situations where did Paul find comfort? We read that the Lord comforted him over and over. He found that the Lord’s comfort not only helped him personally, he learned that the comfort that he personally  received also blessed and comforted others. As we continue on in our study of the book of Acts, we will see an example of how Paul was not only comforted in a difficult and trying situation, we’ll also see how it comforted others as well.

A little background before we read our text in Acts 27: In previous chapters we read that when Paul went to worship at the Temple in Jerusalem he was arrested by the Romans after a riot began to develop. Some Jews from Asia stirred a crowd after making some false accusations about him. The Jews wanted to kill him but after a trial before Governor Festus, rather that going back to Jerusalem to stand trial before the Jews, as a Roman citizen Paul claimed his right to make his appeal before Caesar. Henceforth, Festus send Paul to Rome.  Having been sent to Italy by way of sea, in Chapter 27 we read that things started out all right, but then the weather started going downhill quickly. And this is where our story picks up today:

Read: Acts 27:13-44 (Click on link to read)

Here we see that Paul does not seem too upset about the dire situation they were in. Believe me when I say, that their ships were nowhere are as sea worthy as ships are today. The prospect of that boat sinking was very likely; yet Paul seemed quite calm. I think that there are a couple of reasons for this peaceful state of mind:

#1. Probably in Paul’s mind he had been through far worst situations

#2. We read that an angel of the Lord appeared to him and lets him know that everything was going to be OK, because the Lord wanted him to go Rome.

So what does Paul do? He in turn encourages and comforts those on the ship with him with the comfort that he himself received from the Lord.

So as we read back in 2 Corinthians 1, Paul lets us know that there are two things that can happen when we encounter those life shaking events:

#1. As a believer, you can find comfort in God. And that comfort and peace of mind comes when we learn to trust Him. It doesn’t  matter how bad the situations is. God is in control and probably has a plan in mind for you and your life. And that can be reassuring to a believer.

#2. The 2^nd thing Paul lets us know in 2 Cor. is that you can be a blessing to others by comforting them with the comfort that you yourself have received from the Lord.

People who are upset will feel better if they see your confidence, your assurance, and your trust in the Lord. Never underestimate that power that flows in you and through you to them.

Those men on that boat were afraid. The storm was so bad they hadn’t even eaten in 14 day (vs 33) because of the dire situation they were in. And because of Paul’s confidence and strength, and prayer, it said that they were all encourages and had something to eat.

William Arthur Ward once said:
 “Flatter me, and I may not believe you. Criticize me, and I may not like you. Ignore me, and I may not forgive you. Encourage me, and I will not forget you.”

In this day and age people are hungry for encouragement.
We need to understand that Christian encouragement is a profound thing: I love 

 Philippians 2:1-4  which says, ^“ If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion,  then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.  Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.  Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

In the book of Hebrews it talks about us making encouragement a daily habit: 

In Heb 3:12-13 the author writes:  ^“See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.”

And in Heb. Chapter 10:23-25 he writes, ^“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Encouragement will produce results. Don’t under estimate it’s power.

In closing, let me close by sharing two illustrations with you:

- Marion Gilbert wrote this in Reader’s Digest, February, 1994,

‘One morning I opened the door to get the newspaper and was surprised to see a strange little dog with our paper in his mouth. Delighted with this unexpected “delivery service,” I fed him some treats. The following morning I was horrified to see the same dog sitting in front of our door, wagging his tail, surrounded by eight newspapers. I spent the rest of that morning returning the papers to their owners.’

 - An elderly widow, restricted in her activities, was eager to serve Christ. After praying about this, she realized that she could bring blessing to others by playing the piano. The next day sheplaced this small ad in the Oakland Tribune: “Pianist will play hymns by phone daily for those who are sick and despondent–the service is free.” The notice included the number to dial. When people called, she would ask, “What hymn would you like to hear?” Within a few months her playing had brought cheer to several hundred people. Many of them freely poured out their hearts to her, and she was able to help and encourage them. (Unknown)

You may have had to suffer some bad times in the past, and you may not have liked it very much. But if you let Him, God can use you and your experiences to comfort and encourage another. Your most trying and difficult circumstance in life may have prepared you to give comfort and encouragement to scores of people who may come your way. My challenge this week is for you choose to be an encourager in a time of so much doom and gloom.  Pray about being a source of comfort and encouragement to others. And as you talk with others, do so with love, and let them know where your strength and comes from as Paul did on that ship so long ago.

From Gary... Bible Reading and Study October 20

Bible Reading and Study   

October 20

The World English Bible

Oct. 20

Ecclesiastes 1-4

Ecc 1:1 The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem:

Ecc 1:2 "Vanity of vanities," says the Preacher; "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity."

Ecc 1:3 What does man gain from all his labor in which he labors under the sun?

Ecc 1:4 One generation goes, and another generation comes; but the earth remains forever.

Ecc 1:5 The sun also rises, and the sun goes down, and hurries to its place where it rises.

Ecc 1:6 The wind goes toward the south, and turns around to the north. It turns around continually as it goes, and the wind returns again to its courses.

Ecc 1:7 All the rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full. To the place where the rivers flow, there they flow again.

Ecc 1:8 All things are full of weariness beyond uttering. The eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.

Ecc 1:9 That which has been is that which shall be; and that which has been done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.

Ecc 1:10 Is there a thing of which it may be said, "Behold, this is new?" It has been long ago, in the ages which were before us.

Ecc 1:11 There is no memory of the former; neither shall there be any memory of the latter that are to come, among those that shall come after.

Ecc 1:12 I, the Preacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem.

Ecc 1:13 I applied my heart to seek and to search out by wisdom concerning all that is done under the sky. It is a heavy burden that God has given to the sons of men to be afflicted with.

Ecc 1:14 I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and behold, all is vanity and a chasing after wind.

Ecc 1:15 That which is crooked can't be made straight; and that which is lacking can't be counted.

Ecc 1:16 I said to myself, "Behold, I have obtained for myself great wisdom above all who were before me in Jerusalem. Yes, my heart has had great experience of wisdom and knowledge."

Ecc 1:17 I applied my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly. I perceived that this also was a chasing after wind.

Ecc 1:18 For in much wisdom is much grief; and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.

Ecc 2:1 I said in my heart, "Come now, I will test you with mirth: therefore enjoy pleasure;" and behold, this also was vanity.

Ecc 2:2 I said of laughter, "It is foolishness;" and of mirth, "What does it accomplish?"

Ecc 2:3 I searched in my heart how to cheer my flesh with wine, my heart yet guiding me with wisdom, and how to lay hold of folly, until I might see what it was good for the sons of men that they should do under heaven all the days of their lives.

Ecc 2:4 I made myself great works. I built myself houses. I planted myself vineyards.

Ecc 2:5 I made myself gardens and parks, and I planted trees in them of all kinds of fruit.

Ecc 2:6 I made myself pools of water, to water from it the forest where trees were reared.

Ecc 2:7 I bought male servants and female servants, and had servants born in my house. I also had great possessions of herds and flocks, above all who were before me in Jerusalem;

Ecc 2:8 I also gathered silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and of the provinces. I got myself male and female singers, and the delights of the sons of men--musical instruments, and that of all sorts.

Ecc 2:9 So I was great, and increased more than all who were before me in Jerusalem. My wisdom also remained with me.

Ecc 2:10 Whatever my eyes desired, I didn't keep from them. I didn't withhold my heart from any joy, for my heart rejoiced because of all my labor, and this was my portion from all my labor.

Ecc 2:11 Then I looked at all the works that my hands had worked, and at the labor that I had labored to do; and behold, all was vanity and a chasing after wind, and there was no profit under the sun.

Ecc 2:12 I turned myself to consider wisdom, madness, and folly: for what can the king's successor do? Just that which has been done long ago.

Ecc 2:13 Then I saw that wisdom excels folly, as far as light excels darkness.

Ecc 2:14 The wise man's eyes are in his head, and the fool walks in darkness--and yet I perceived that one event happens to them all.

Ecc 2:15 Then said I in my heart, "As it happens to the fool, so will it happen even to me; and why was I then more wise?" Then said I in my heart that this also is vanity.

Ecc 2:16 For of the wise man, even as of the fool, there is no memory for ever, seeing that in the days to come all will have been long forgotten. Indeed, the wise man must die just like the fool!

Ecc 2:17 So I hated life, because the work that is worked under the sun was grievous to me; for all is vanity and a chasing after wind.

Ecc 2:18 I hated all my labor in which I labored under the sun, seeing that I must leave it to the man who comes after me.

Ecc 2:19 Who knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool? Yet he will have rule over all of my labor in which I have labored, and in which I have shown myself wise under the sun. This also is vanity.

Ecc 2:20 Therefore I began to cause my heart to despair concerning all the labor in which I had labored under the sun.

Ecc 2:21 For there is a man whose labor is with wisdom, with knowledge, and with skillfulness; yet he shall leave it for his portion to a man who has not labored for it. This also is vanity and a great evil.

Ecc 2:22 For what has a man of all his labor, and of the striving of his heart, in which he labors under the sun?

Ecc 2:23 For all his days are sorrows, and his travail is grief; yes, even in the night his heart takes no rest. This also is vanity.

Ecc 2:24 There is nothing better for a man than that he should eat and drink, and make his soul enjoy good in his labor. This also I saw, that it is from the hand of God.

Ecc 2:25 For who can eat, or who can have enjoyment, more than I?

Ecc 2:26 For to the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy; but to the sinner he gives travail, to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him who pleases God. This also is vanity and a chasing after wind.

Ecc 3:1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven:

Ecc 3:2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

Ecc 3:3 a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;

Ecc 3:4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

Ecc 3:5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

Ecc 3:6 a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;

Ecc 3:7 a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

Ecc 3:8 a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.

Ecc 3:9 What profit has he who works in that in which he labors?

Ecc 3:10 I have seen the burden which God has given to the sons of men to be afflicted with.

Ecc 3:11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in their hearts, yet so that man can't find out the work that God has done from the beginning even to the end.

Ecc 3:12 I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice, and to do good as long as they live.

Ecc 3:13 Also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy good in all his labor, is the gift of God.

Ecc 3:14 I know that whatever God does, it shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, nor anything taken from it; and God has done it, that men should fear before him.

Ecc 3:15 That which is has been long ago, and that which is to be has been long ago: and God seeks again that which is passed away.

Ecc 3:16 Moreover I saw under the sun, in the place of justice, that wickedness was there; and in the place of righteousness, that wickedness was there.

Ecc 3:17 I said in my heart, "God will judge the righteous and the wicked; for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work."

Ecc 3:18 I said in my heart, "As for the sons of men, God tests them, so that they may see that they themselves are like animals.

Ecc 3:19 For that which happens to the sons of men happens to animals. Even one thing happens to them. As the one dies, so the other dies. Yes, they have all one breath; and man has no advantage over the animals: for all is vanity.

Ecc 3:20 All go to one place. All are from the dust, and all turn to dust again.

Ecc 3:21 Who knows the spirit of man, whether it goes upward, and the spirit of the animal, whether it goes downward to the earth?"

Ecc 3:22 Therefore I saw that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his works; for that is his portion: for who can bring him to see what will be after him?

Ecc 4:1 Then I returned and saw all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold, the tears of those who were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter.

Ecc 4:2 Therefore I praised the dead who have been long dead more than the living who are yet alive.

Ecc 4:3 Yes, better than them both is him who has not yet been, who has not seen the evil work that is done under the sun.

Ecc 4:4 Then I saw all the labor and achievement that is the envy of a man's neighbor. This also is vanity and a striving after wind.

Ecc 4:5 The fool folds his hands together and ruins himself.

Ecc 4:6 Better is a handful, with quietness, than two handfuls with labor and chasing after wind.

Ecc 4:7 Then I returned and saw vanity under the sun.

Ecc 4:8 There is one who is alone, and he has neither son nor brother. There is no end to all of his labor, neither are his eyes satisfied with wealth. For whom then, do I labor, and deprive my soul of enjoyment? This also is vanity, yes, it is a miserable business.

Ecc 4:9 Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.

Ecc 4:10 For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow; but woe to him who is alone when he falls, and doesn't have another to lift him up.

Ecc 4:11 Again, if two lie together, then they have warmth; but how can one keep warm alone?

Ecc 4:12 If a man prevails against one who is alone, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Ecc 4:13 Better is a poor and wise youth than an old and foolish king who doesn't know how to receive admonition any more.

Ecc 4:14 For out of prison he came forth to be king; yes, even in his kingdom he was born poor.

Ecc 4:15 I saw all the living who walk under the sun, that they were with the youth, the other, who succeeded him.

Ecc 4:16 There was no end of all the people, even of all them over whom he was--yet those who come after shall not rejoice in him. Surely this also is vanity and a chasing after wind.

 

The Composite Bible

The World English Bible

Darby's Translation

Young's Literal Translation

The Composite Bible is a effort to understand the Bible by considering it from different perspectives and different levels of literalcy. First, read the World English Bible (the least literal-black text) for comprehension of the text. Next, read both the World English Bible with the Darby Translation (more literal-blue text)to make comparisons and lastly, read all three versions (Young's is the most literal translation- red text) at one time to obtain an overview of the text. Doing this will make you think about what the Scriptures are actually saying and avoid reading in a superficial manner.

Ecclesiastes

Ecclesiastes 1 1

The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem:

The words of the Preacher, the son of David, king in Jerusalem.

Words of a preacher, son of David, king in Jerusalem:

Ecclesiastes 1 2

"Vanity of vanities," says the Preacher; "Vanity of vanities, all is vanity."

Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities! all is vanity.

Vanity of vanities, said the Preacher, Vanity of vanities: the whole [is] vanity.

Ecclesiastes 1 3

What does man gain from all his labor in which he labors under the sun?

What profit hath man of all his labour wherewith he laboureth under the sun?

What advantage [is] to man by all his labour that he laboureth at under the sun?

Ecclesiastes 1 4

One generation goes, and another generation comes; but the earth remains forever.

[One] generation passeth away, and [another] generation cometh, but the earth standeth for ever.

A generation is going, and a generation is coming, and the earth to the age is standing.

Ecclesiastes 1 5

The sun also rises, and the sun goes down, and hurries to its place where it rises.

The sun also riseth, and the sun goeth down, and hasteth to its place where it ariseth.

Also, the sun hath risen, and the sun hath gone in, and unto its place panting it is rising there.

Ecclesiastes 1 6

The wind goes toward the south, and turns around to the north. It turns around continually as it goes, and the wind returns again to its courses.

The wind goeth towards the south, and turneth about towards the north: it turneth about

continually, and the wind returneth again to its circuits.

Going unto the south, and turning round unto the north, turning round, turning

round, the wind is going, and by its circuits the wind hath returned.

Ecclesiastes 1 7

All the rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full. To the place where the rivers flow, there they flow again.

All the rivers run into the sea, yet the sea is not full: unto the place whither the rivers

go, thither they go again.

All the streams are going unto the sea, and the sea is not full; unto a place whither

the streams are going, thither they are turning back to go.

Ecclesiastes 1 8

All things are full of weariness beyond uttering. The eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor the ear filled with hearing.

All things are full of toil; none can express it. The eye is not satisfied with seeing, nor

the ear filled with hearing.

All these things are wearying; a man is not able to speak, the eye is not satisfied by seeing, nor filled is the ear from hearing.

Ecclesiastes 1 9

That which has been is that which shall be; and that which has been done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun.

That which hath been is that which shall be; and that which hath been done is that

which will be done: and there is nothing new under the sun.

What [is] that which hath been? it [is] that which is, and what [is] that which

hath been done? it [is] that which is done, and there is not an entirely new thing

under the sun.

Ecclesiastes 1 10

Is there a thing of which it may be said, "Behold, this is new?" It has been long ago, in the ages which were before us.

Is there a thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new? It hath been already in the ages

which were before us.

There is a thing of which [one] saith: `See this, it [is] new!` already it hath been in

the ages that were before us!

Ecclesiastes 1 11

There is no memory of the former; neither shall there be any memory of the latter that are to come, among those that shall come after.

There is no remembrance of former things; neither shall there be remembrance of things

that are to come with those who shall live afterwards.

There is not a remembrance of former [generations]; and also of the latter that

are, there is no remembrance of them with those that are at the last.

Ecclesiastes 1 12

I, the Preacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem.

I, the Preacher, was king over Israel in Jerusalem.

I, a preacher, have been king over Israel in Jerusalem.

Ecclesiastes 1 13

I applied my heart to seek and to search out by wisdom concerning all that is done under the sky. It is a heavy burden that God has given to the sons of men to be afflicted with.

And I applied my heart to seek and search out by wisdom concerning all that is done

under the heavens: this grievous occupation hath God given to the children of men to

weary themselves therewith.

And I have given my heart to seek and to search out by wisdom concerning all that

hath been done under the heavens. It [is] a sad travail God hath given to the sons

of man to be humbled by it.

Ecclesiastes 1 14

I have seen all the works that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity and a chasing after wind.

I have seen all the works that are done under the sun, and behold, all is vanity and

pursuit of the wind.

I have seen all the works that have been done under the sun, and lo, the whole [is]

vanity and vexation of spirit!

Ecclesiastes 1 15

That which is crooked can`t be made straight; and that which is lacking can`t be counted.

That which is crooked cannot be made straight; and that which is wanting cannot be

numbered.

A crooked thing [one] is not able to make straight, and a lacking thing is not able

to be numbered.

Ecclesiastes 1 16

I said to myself, "Behold, I have obtained for myself great wisdom above all who were before me in Jerusalem. Yes, my heart has had great experience of wisdom and knowledge."

I communed with mine own heart, saying, Lo, I have become great and have acquired

wisdom more than all they that have been before me over Jerusalem; and my heart hath

seen much of wisdom and knowledge.

I -- I spake with my heart, saying, `I, lo, I have magnified and added wisdom above

every one who hath been before me at Jerusalem, and my heart hath seen

abundantly wisdom and knowledge.

Ecclesiastes 1 17

I applied my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly. I perceived that this also was a chasing after wind.

And I applied my heart to the knowledge of wisdom, and to the knowledge of madness and

folly: I perceived that this also is a striving after the wind.

And I give my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly: I have known

that even this [is] vexation of spirit;

Ecclesiastes 1 18

For in much wisdom is much grief; and he who increases knowledge increases sorrow.

For in much wisdom is much vexation, and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.

for, in abundance of wisdom [is] abundance of sadness, and he who addeth

knowledge addeth pain.`

Ecclesiastes 2 1

I said in my heart, "Come now, I will test you with mirth: therefore enjoy pleasure;" and, behold, this also was vanity.

I said in my heart, Come now, I will try thee with mirth, therefore enjoy pleasure. But

behold, this also is vanity.

I said in my heart, `Pray, come, I try thee with mirth, and look thou on gladness;`

and lo, even it [is] vanity.

Ecclesiastes 2 2

I said of laughter, "It is foolishness;" and of mirth, "What does it accomplish?"

I said of laughter, Madness! and of mirth, What availeth it?

Of laughter I said, `Foolish!` and of mirth, `What [is] this it is doing?`

Ecclesiastes 2 3

I searched in my heart how to cheer my flesh with wine, my heart yet guiding me with wisdom, and how to lay hold of folly, until I might see what it was good for the sons of men that they should do under heaven all the days of their lives.

I searched in my heart how to cherish my flesh with wine, while practising my heart

with wisdom; and how to lay hold on folly, till I should see what was that good for the

children of men which they should do under the heavens all the days of their life.

I have sought in my heart to draw out with wine my appetite, (and my heart

leading in wisdom), and to take hold on folly till that I see where [is] this -- the

good to the sons of man of that which they do under the heavens, the number of

the days of their lives.

Ecclesiastes 2 4

I made myself great works. I built myself houses. I planted myself vineyards.

I made me great works; I builded me houses; I planted me vineyards;

I made great my works, I builded for me houses, I planted for me vineyards.

Ecclesiastes 2 5

I made myself gardens and parks, and I planted trees in them of all kinds of fruit.

I made me gardens and parks, and I planted trees in them of every kind of fruit;

I made for me gardens and paradises, and I planted in them trees of every fruit.

Ecclesiastes 2 6

I made myself pools of water, to water therefrom the forest where trees were reared.

I made me ponds of water, to water therewith the wood, where the trees are reared.

I made for me pools of water, to water from them a forest shooting forth trees.

Ecclesiastes 2 7

I bought men-servants and maid-servants, and had servants born in my house. I also had great possessions of herds and flocks, above all who were before me in Jerusalem;

I acquired servants and maidens, and had servants born in my house; also I had great

possessions of herds and flocks, above all that had been in Jerusalem before me.

I got men-servants, and maid-servants, and sons of the house were to me; also, I had

much substance -- herd and flock -- above all who had been before me in Jerusalem.

Ecclesiastes 2 8

I also gathered silver and gold for myself, and the treasure of kings and of the provinces. I got myself men-singers and women-singers, and the delights of the sons of men -- musical

instruments, and that of all sorts.

I gathered me also silver and gold, and the peculiar treasure of kings and of the

provinces; I got me men-singers and women-singers, and the delights of the children of

men, a wife and concubines.

I gathered for me also silver and gold, and the peculiar treasure of kings and of

the provinces. I prepared for me men-singers and women-singers, and the

luxuries of the sons of man -- a wife and wives.

Ecclesiastes 2 9

So I was great, and increased more than all who were before me in Jerusalem. My wisdom also remained with me.

And I became great, and increased more than all that had been before me in Jerusalem:

also my wisdom remained with me.

And I became great, and increased above every one who had been before me in

Jerusalem; also, my wisdom stood with me.

Ecclesiastes 2 10

Whatever my eyes desired, I didn`t keep from them. I didn`t withhold my heart from any joy, for my heart rejoiced because of all my labor, and this was my portion from all my labor.

And whatsoever mine eyes desired I kept not from them: I withheld not my heart from

any joy; for my heart rejoiced in all my labour, and this was my portion from all my

labour.

And all that mine eyes asked I kept not back from them; I withheld not my heart

from any joy, for my heart rejoiced because of all my labour, and this hath been my

portion, from all my labour,

Ecclesiastes 2 11

Then I looked at all the works that my hands had worked, and at the labor that I had labored to do; and, behold, all was vanity and a chasing after wind, and there was no profit under the sun.

Then I looked on all the works that my hands had wrought, and on the labour that it had

cost me to do [them]; and behold, all was vanity and pursuit of the wind, and there was no

profit under the sun.

and I have looked on all my works that my hands have done, and on the labour that

I have laboured to do, and lo, the whole [is] vanity and vexation of spirit, and

there is no advantage under the sun!

Ecclesiastes 2 12

I turned myself to consider wisdom, madness, and folly: for what can the king`s successor do? Just that which has been done long ago.

And I turned myself to behold wisdom, and madness, and folly; for what shall the man [do]

that cometh after the king? -- that which hath already been done.

And I turned to see wisdom, and madness, and folly, but what [is] the man who

cometh after the king? that which [is] already -- they have done it!

Ecclesiastes 2 13

Then I saw that wisdom excels folly, as far as light excels darkness.

And I saw that wisdom excelleth folly, as light excelleth darkness.

And I saw that there is an advantage to wisdom above folly, like the advantage of

the light above the darkness.

Ecclesiastes 2 14

The wise man`s eyes are in his head, and the fool walks in darkness -- and yet I perceived that one event happens to them all.

The wise man`s eyes are in his head, and the fool walketh in darkness; but I myself also

perceived that one event happeneth to them all.

The wise! -- his eyes [are] in his head, and the fool in darkness is walking, and I

also knew that one event happeneth with them all;

Ecclesiastes 2 15

Then said I in my heart, "As it happens to the fool, so will it happen even to me; and why was I then more wise?" Then said I in my heart that this also is vanity.

And I said in my heart, As it happeneth to the fool so will it happen even to me; and why

was I then so wise? Then I said in my heart that this also is vanity.

and I said in my heart, `As it happeneth with the fool, it happeneth also with me,

and why am I then more wise?` And I spake in my heart, that also this [is] vanity:

Ecclesiastes 2 16

For of the wise man, even as of the fool, there is no memory for ever, seeing that in the days to come all will have been long forgotten. Indeed, the wise man must die just like the fool!

For there shall be no remembrance of the wise more than of the fool for ever; because

everything is already forgotten in the days which come. And how dieth the wise even as

the fool?

That there is no remembrance to the wise -- with the fool -- to the age, for that

which [is] already, [in] the days that are coming is all forgotten, and how dieth

the wise? with the fool!

Ecclesiastes 2 17

So I hated life, because the work that is worked under the sun was grievous to me; for all is

vanity and a chasing after wind.

And I hated life; for the work that is wrought under the sun was grievous unto me; for all

is vanity and pursuit of the wind.

And I have hated life, for sad to me [is] the work that hath been done under the

sun, for the whole [is] vanity and vexation of spirit.

Ecclesiastes 2 18

I hated all my labor in which I labored under the sun, seeing that I must leave it to the man who comes after me.

And I hated all my labour wherewith I had been toiling under the sun, because I should

leave it unto the man that shall be after me.

And I have hated all my labour that I labour at under the sun, because I leave it to

a man who is after me.

Ecclesiastes 2 19

Who knows whether he will be a wise man or a fool? Yet he will have rule over all of my labor in which I have labored, and in which I have showed myself wise under the sun. This also is vanity.

And who knoweth whether he will be a wise [man] or a fool? yet shall he have rule over all

my labour at which I have laboured, and wherein I have been wise under the sun. This

also is vanity.

And who knoweth whether he is wise or foolish? yet he doth rule over all my

labour that I have laboured at, and that I have done wisely under the sun! this

also [is] vanity.

Ecclesiastes 2 20

Therefore I began to cause my heart to despair concerning all the labor in which I had labored under the sun.

Then I went about to cause my heart to despair of all the labour wherewith I had

laboured under the sun.

And I turned round to cause my heart to despair concerning all the labour that I

laboured at under the sun.

Ecclesiastes 2 21

For there is a man whose labor is with wisdom, with knowledge, and with skillfulness; yet he shall leave it for his portion to a man who has not labored therein. This also is vanity and a great evil.

For there is a man whose labour hath been with wisdom, and with knowledge, and with

skill, and who leaveth it to a man that hath not laboured therein, to be his portion. This

also is vanity and a great evil.

For there is a man whose labour [is] in wisdom, and in knowledge, and in equity,

and to a man who hath not laboured therein he giveth it -- his portion! Even this

[is] vanity and a great evil.

Ecclesiastes 2 22

For what has a man of all his labor, and of the striving of his heart, in which he labors under the sun?

For what will man have of all his labour and of the striving of his heart, wherewith he

hath wearied himself under the sun?

For what hath been to a man by all his labour, and by the thought of his heart that

he laboured at under the sun?

Ecclesiastes 2 23

For all his days are sorrows, and his travail is grief; yes, even in the night his heart takes no

rest. This also is vanity.

For all his days are sorrows, and his travail vexation: even in the night his heart taketh

no rest. This also is vanity.

For all his days are sorrows, and his travail sadness; even at night his heart hath

not lain down; this also [is] vanity.

Ecclesiastes 2 24

There is nothing better for a man than that he should eat and drink, and make his soul enjoy good in his labor. This also I saw, that it is from the hand of God.

There is nothing good for man, but that he should eat and drink, and that he should make

his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.

There is nothing good in a man who eateth, and hath drunk, and hath shewn his

soul good in his labour. This also I have seen that it [is] from the hand of God.

Ecclesiastes 2 25

For who can eat, or who can have enjoyment, more than I?

For who can eat, or who be eager, more than I?

For who eateth and who hasteth out more than I?

Ecclesiastes 2 26

For to the man who pleases him, God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy; but to the sinner he

gives travail, to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him who pleases God. This also is vanity and a chasing after wind.

For he giveth to a man that is good in his sight wisdom, and knowledge, and joy; but to

the sinner he giveth travail to gather and to heap up, that he may give to him that is

good in God`s sight. This also is vanity and pursuit of the wind.

For to a man who [is] good before Him, He hath given wisdom, and knowledge, and

joy; and to a sinner He hath given travail, to gather and to heap up, to give to the

good before God. Even this [is] vanity and vexation of spirit.

Ecclesiastes 3 1

For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven:

To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens:

To everything -- a season, and a time to every delight under the heavens:

Ecclesiastes 3 2

A time to be born, And a time to die; A time to plant, And a time to pluck up that which is

planted;

A time to be born, and a time to die; A time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is

planted;

A time to bring forth, And a time to die. A time to plant, And a time to eradicate

the planted.

Ecclesiastes 3 3

A time to kill, And a time to heal; A time to break down, And a time to build up;

A time to kill, and a time to heal; A time to break down, and a time to build up;

A time to slay, And a time to heal, A time to break down, And a time to build up.

Ecclesiastes 3 4

A time to weep, And a time to laugh; A time to mourn, And a time to dance;

A time to weep, and a time to laugh; A time to mourn, and a time to dance;

A time to weep, And a time to laugh. A time to mourn, And a time to skip.

Ecclesiastes 3 5

A time to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones together; A time to embrace, And a

time to refrain from embracing;

A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; A time to embrace, and

a time to refrain from embracing;

A time to cast away stones, And a time to heap up stones. A time to embrace, And a

time to be far from embracing.

Ecclesiastes 3 6

A time to seek, And a time to lose; A time to keep, And a time to cast away;

A time to seek, and a time to lose; A time to keep, and a time to cast away;

A time to seek, And a time to destroy. A time to keep, And a time to cast away.

Ecclesiastes 3 7

A time to tear, And a time to sew; A time to keep silence, And a time to speak;

A time to rend, and a time to sew; A time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

A time to rend, And a time to sew. A time to be silent, And a time to speak.

Ecclesiastes 3 8

A time to love, And a time to hate; A time for war, And a time for peace.

A time to love, and a time to hate; A time of war, and a time of peace.

A time to love, And a time to hate. A time of war, And a time of peace.

Ecclesiastes 3 9

What profit has he who works in that in which he labors?

What profit hath he that worketh from that wherein he laboureth?

What advantage hath the doer in that which he is labouring at?

Ecclesiastes 3 10

I have seen the burden which God has given to the sons of men to be afflicted with.

I have seen the travail that God hath given to the sons of men to toil in.

I have seen the travail that God hath given to the sons of man to be humbled by it.

Ecclesiastes 3 11

He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in their hearts, yet so that man can`t find out the work that God has done from the beginning even to the end.

He hath made everything beautiful in its time; also he hath set the world in their heart,

so that man findeth not out from the beginning to the end the work that God doeth.

The whole He hath made beautiful in its season; also, that knowledge He hath put

in their heart without which man findeth not out the work that God hath done

from the beginning even unto the end.

Ecclesiastes 3 12

I know that there is nothing better for them than to rejoice, and to do good as long as they live.

I know that there is nothing good for them but to rejoice and to do well in their life;

I have known that there is no good for them except to rejoice and to do good

during their life,

Ecclesiastes 3 13

Also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy good in all his labor, is the gift of God.

yea also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy good in all his labour, it is the gift of God.

yea, even every man who eateth and hath drunk and seen good by all his labour, it [is] a gift of God.

Ecclesiastes 3 14

I know that whatever God does, it shall be forever. Nothing can be added to it, nor anything

taken from it; and God has done it, that men should fear before him.

I know that whatever God doeth, it shall be for ever; there is nothing to be added to it,

nor anything to be taken from it; and God doeth [it], that [men] should fear before him.

I have known that all that God doth is to the age, to it nothing is to be added, and

from it nothing is to be withdrawn; and God hath wrought that they do fear

before Him.

Ecclesiastes 3 15

That which is has been long ago, and that which is to be has been long ago: and God seeks again that which is passed away.

That which is was long ago, and that which is to be hath already been; and God bringeth

back again that which is past.

What is that which hath been? already it is, and that which [is] to be hath already

been, and God requireth that which is pursued.

Ecclesiastes 3 16

Moreover I saw under the sun, in the place of justice, that wickedness was there; and in the

place of righteousness, that wickedness was there.

And moreover I saw under the sun, that in the place of judgment, wickedness was there;

and in the place of righteousness, wickedness was there.

And again, I have seen under the sun the place of judgment -- there [is] the

wicked; and the place of righteousness -- there [is] the wicked.

Ecclesiastes 3 17

I said in my heart, "God will judge the righteous and the wicked; for there is a time there for every purpose and for every work."

I said in my heart, God will judge the righteous and the wicked; for there is a time there

for every purpose and for every work.

I said in my heart, `The righteous and the wicked doth God judge, for a time [is] to

every matter and for every work there.`

Ecclesiastes 3 18

I said in my heart, "As for the sons of men, God tests them, so that they may see that they

themselves are like animals.

I said in my heart, It is thus with the children of men, that God may prove them, and that

they should see that they themselves are but beasts.

I said in my heart concerning the matter of the sons of man that God might

cleanse them, so as to see that they themselves [are] beasts.

Ecclesiastes 3 19

For that which happens to the sons of men happens to animals. Even one thing happens to them. As the one dies, so the other dies. Yes, they have all one breath; and man has no advantage over the animals: for all is vanity.

For what befalleth the children of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as

the one dieth, so dieth the other, and they have all one breath; and man hath no pre-

eminence above the beast: for all is vanity.

For an event [is to] the sons of man, and an event [is to] the beasts, even one event

[is] to them; as the death of this, so [is] the death of that; and one spirit [is] to all,

and the advantage of man above the beast is nothing, for the whole [is] vanity.

Ecclesiastes 3 20

All go to one place. All are from the dust, and all turn to dust again.

All go unto one place: all are of the dust, and all return to dust.

The whole are going unto one place, the whole have been from the dust, and the

whole are turning back unto the dust.

Ecclesiastes 3 21

Who knows the spirit of man, whether it goes upward, and the spirit of the animal, whether it goes downward to the earth?"

Who knoweth the spirit of the children of men? Doth it go upwards? and the spirit of the

beasts, doth it go downwards to the earth?

Who knoweth the spirit of the sons of man that is going up on high, and the spirit

of the beast that is going down below to the earth?

Ecclesiastes 3 22

Therefore I saw that there is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his works; for that is his portion: for who can bring him to see what will be after him?

And I have seen that there is nothing better than that man should rejoice in his own

works; for that is his portion; for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?

And I have seen that there is nothing better than that man rejoice in his works,

for it [is] his portion; for who doth bring him in to look on that which is after

Ecclesiastes 4 1

Then I returned and saw all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and, behold, the tears of those who were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter.

And I returned and saw all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold, the

tears of the oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors was

power, and they had no comforter.

And I have turned, and I see all the oppressions that are done under the sun, and

lo, the tear of the oppressed, and they have no comforter; and at the hand of their

oppressors [is] power, and they have no comforter.

Ecclesiastes 4 2

Therefore I praised the dead who have been long dead more than the living who are yet alive.

Then I praised the dead who are already dead more than the living who are yet alive;

And I am praising the dead who have already died above the living who are yet alive.

Ecclesiastes 4 3

Yes, better than them both is him who has not yet been, who has not seen the evil work that is done under the sun.

and more fortunate than both is he who hath not yet been, who hath not seen the evil

work that is done under the sun.

And better than both of them [is] he who hath not yet been, in that he hath not

seen the evil work that hath been done under the sun.

Ecclesiastes 4 4

Then I saw all of labor and of achievement that is the envy of a man`s neighbor. This also is

vanity and a striving after wind.

And I saw all labour, and all success of work, that it is man`s jealousy of his neighbour.

This also is vanity and pursuit of the wind.

And I have seen all the labour, and all the benefit of the work, because for it a man

is the envy of his neighbour. Even this [is] vanity and vexation of spirit.

Ecclesiastes 4 5

The fool folds his hands together and ruins himself.

The fool foldeth his hands together, and eateth his own flesh.

The fool is clasping his hands, and eating his own flesh:

Ecclesiastes 4 6

Better is a handful, with quietness, than two handfuls with labor and chasing after wind.

Better is a handful with quietness, than both hands full with labour and pursuit of the wind.

`Better [is] a handful [with] quietness, than two handfuls [with] labour and

vexation of spirit.`

Ecclesiastes 4 7

Then I returned and saw vanity under the sun.

And I returned and saw vanity under the sun.

And I have turned, and I see a vain thing under the sun:

Ecclesiastes 4 8

There is one who is alone, and he has neither son nor brother. There no end to all of his labor, neither are his eyes satisfied with wealth. For whom then, do I labor, and deprive my soul of enjoyment? This also is vanity, yes, it is a miserable business.

There is one [alone] and without a second; also he hath neither son nor brother: yet is

there no end of all his labour, neither is his eye satisfied with riches, and [he saith not],

For whom then am I labouring, and depriving my soul of good? This also is vanity and a

grievous occupation.

There is one, and there is not a second; even son or brother he hath not, and there

is no end to all his labour! His eye also is not satisfied with riches, and [he saith

not], `For whom am I labouring and bereaving my soul of good?` This also is

vanity, it is a sad travail.

Ecclesiastes 4 9

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their labor.

Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.

The two [are] better than the one, in that they have a good reward by their labour.

Ecclesiastes 4 10

For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow; but woe to him who is alone when he falls, and

doesn`t have another to lift him up.

For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow; but woe to him that is alone when he

falleth, and who hath not another to lift him up!

For if they fall, the one raiseth up his companion, but wo to the one who falleth

and there is not a second to raise him up!

Ecclesiastes 4 11

Again, if two lie together, then they have warmth; but how can one keep warm alone?

Again, if two lie together, then they have warmth; but how can one alone be warm?

Also, if two lie down, then they have heat, but how hath one heat?

Ecclesiastes 4 12

If a man prevails against one who is alone, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

And if a [man] overpower the one, the two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is

not quickly broken.

And if the one strengthen himself, the two stand against him; and the threefold

cord is not hastily broken.

Ecclesiastes 4 13

Better is a poor and wise youth than an old and foolish king who doesn`t know how to receive admonition any more.

Better is a poor but wise youth than an old and foolish king, who knoweth no more how to

be admonished.

Better is a poor and wise youth than an old and foolish king, who hath not known

to be warned any more.

Ecclesiastes 4 14

For out of prison he came forth to be king; yes, even in his kingdom he was born poor.

For out of the prison-house he came forth to reign, although he was born poor in his kingdom.

For from a house of prisoners he hath come out to reign, for even in his own

kingdom he hath been poor.

Ecclesiastes 4 15

I saw all the living who walk under the sun, that they were with the youth, the other, who

succeeded him.

I saw all the living that walk under the sun, with the child, the second, that should stand

up in his stead.

I have seen all the living, who are walking under the sun, with the second youth

who doth stand in his place;

Ecclesiastes 4 16

There was no end of all the people, even of all them over whom he was -- yet those who come after shall not rejoice in him. Surely this also is vanity and a chasing after wind.

[There is] no end of all the people, of all that stood before them; those however that come

after shall not rejoice in him. Surely this also is vanity and a striving after the wind.

there is no end to all the people, to all who were before them; also, the latter

rejoice not in him. Surely this also is vanity and vexation of spirit.

Study Questions

All the works done under the sun are? 1:14
 
Solomon realized his labor was? 2:10
 
There is nothing better than to be wise? True or False?
 
A threefold cord is not quickly ___________? 4:12

 The World English Bible

 

Oct. 20

Colossians 1

Col 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

Col 1:2 to the saints and faithful brothers in Christ at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Col 1:3 We give thanks to God the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

Col 1:4 having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which you have toward all the saints,

Col 1:5 because of the hope which is laid up for you in the heavens, of which you heard before in the word of the truth of the Good News,

Col 1:6 which has come to you; even as it is in all the world and is bearing fruit and growing, as it does in you also, since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth;

Col 1:7 even as you learned of Epaphras our beloved fellow servant, who is a faithful servant of Christ on our behalf,

Col 1:8 who also declared to us your love in the Spirit.

Col 1:9 For this cause, we also, since the day we heard this, don't cease praying and making requests for you, that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,

Col 1:10 that you may walk worthily of the Lord, to please him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

Col 1:11 strengthened with all power, according to the might of his glory, for all endurance and perseverance with joy;

Col 1:12 giving thanks to the Father, who made us fit to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light;

Col 1:13 who delivered us out of the power of darkness, and translated us into the Kingdom of the Son of his love;

Col 1:14 in whom we have our redemption, the forgiveness of our sins;

Col 1:15 who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.

Col 1:16 For by him all things were created, in the heavens and on the earth, things visible and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and for him.

Col 1:17 He is before all things, and in him all things are held together.

Col 1:18 He is the head of the body, the assembly, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

Col 1:19 For all the fullness was pleased to dwell in him;

Col 1:20 and through him to reconcile all things to himself, by him, whether things on the earth, or things in the heavens, having made peace through the blood of his cross.

Col 1:21 You, being in past times alienated and enemies in your mind in your evil works,

Col 1:22 yet now he has reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and without blemish and blameless before him,

Col 1:23 if it is so that you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the Good News which you heard, which is being proclaimed in all creation under heaven; of which I, Paul, was made a servant.

Col 1:24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and fill up on my part that which is lacking of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the assembly;

Col 1:25 of which I was made a servant, according to the stewardship of God which was given me toward you, to fulfill the word of God,

Col 1:26 the mystery which has been hidden for ages and generations. But now it has been revealed to his saints,

Col 1:27 to whom God was pleased to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory;

Col 1:28 whom we proclaim, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus;

Col 1:29 for which I also labor, striving according to his working, which works in me mightily.

 

The Composite Bible

The World English Bible

Darby's Translation

Young's Literal Translation

The Composite Bible is a effort to understand the Bible by considering it from different perspectives and different levels of literalcy. First, read the World English Bible (the least literal-black text) for comprehension of the text. Next, read both the World English Bible with the Darby Translation (more literal-blue text)to make comparisons and lastly, read all three versions (Young's is the most literal translation- red text) at one time to obtain an overview of the text. Doing this will make you think about what the Scriptures are actually saying and avoid reading in a superficial manner.

Colossians

Colossians 1 1

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus through the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

Paul, apostle of Christ Jesus, by God`s will, and Timotheus the brother,

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Timotheus the brother,

Colossians 1 2

To the saints and faithful brothers in Christ [who are] at Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God, our Father, and the Lord, Jesus Christ.

to the holy and faithful brethren in Christ which [are] in Colosse. Grace to you and peace

from God our Father [and Lord Jesus Christ].

to the saints in Colossae, and to the faithful brethren in Christ: Grace to you, and

peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ!

Colossians 1 3

We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ continually [when] praying for you,

We give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, always praying for you,

Colossians 1 4

having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which you have toward all the saints,

having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and the love which ye have towards all the

saints,

having heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love that [is] to all the saints,

Colossians 1 5

because of the hope which is laid up for you in the heavens, whereof you heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel,

on account of the hope which [is] laid up for you in the heavens; of which ye heard before

in the word of the truth of the glad tidings,

because of the hope that is laid up for you in the heavens, which ye heard of before

in the word of the truth of the good news,

Colossians 1 6

which has come to you; even as it is also in all the world bearing fruit and increasing, as it does in you also, since the day you heard and knew the grace of God in truth;

which are come to you, as [they are] in all the world, [and] are bearing fruit and

growing, even as also among you, from the day ye heard [them] and knew indeed the

grace of God, in truth:

which is present to you, as also in all the world, and is bearing fruit, as also in

you, from the day in which ye heard, and knew the grace of God in truth;

Colossians 1 7

even as you learned of Epaphras our beloved fellow-servant, who is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf,

even as ye learned from Epaphras our beloved fellow-bondman, who is a faithful minister

of Christ for you,

as ye also learned from Epaphras, our beloved fellow-servant, who is for you a

faithful ministrant of the Christ,

Colossians 1 8

who also declared to us your love in the Spirit.

who has also manifested to us your love in [the] Spirit.

who also did declare to us your love in the Spirit.

Colossians 1 9

For this cause, we also, since the day we heard this, haven`t ceased to pray and make requests for you, that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,

For this reason *we* also, from the day we heard [of your faith and love], do not cease

praying and asking for you, to the end that ye may be filled with the full knowledge of

his will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding,

Because of this, we also, from the day in which we heard, do not cease praying for

you, and asking that ye may be filled with the full knowledge of His will in all

wisdom and spiritual understanding,

Colossians 1 10

to walk worthily of the Lord, to please him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

[so as] to walk worthily of the Lord unto all well-pleasing, bearing fruit in every good

work, and growing by the true knowledge of God;

to your walking worthily of the Lord to all pleasing, in every good work being

fruitful, and increasing to the knowledge of God,

Colossians 1 11

strengthened with all power, according to the might of his glory, to all patience and

perseverance with joy;

strengthened with all power according to the might of his glory unto all endurance and

longsuffering with joy;

in all might being made mighty according to the power of His glory, to all

endurance and long-suffering with joy.

Colossians 1 12

giving thanks to the Father, who made us fit to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light;

giving thanks to the Father, who has made us fit for sharing the portion of the saints in light,

Giving thanks to the Father who did make us meet for the participation of the

inheritance of the saints in the light,

Colossians 1 13

who delivered us out of the power of darkness, and translated us into the kingdom of the Son of his love;

who has delivered us from the authority of darkness, and translated [us] into the

kingdom of the Son of his love:

who did rescue us out of the authority of the darkness, and did translate [us] into

the reign of the Son of His love,

Colossians 1 14

in whom we have our redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our sins;

in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins;

in whom we have the redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of the sins,

Colossians 1 15

who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation.

who is image of the invisible God, firstborn of all creation;

who is the image of the invisible God, first-born of all creation,

Colossians 1 16

For in him were all things created, in the heavens and on the earth, things visible and things invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers; all things have been created through him, and to him.

because by him were created all things, the things in the heavens and the things upon

the earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones, or lordships, or principalities,

or authorities: all things have been created by him and for him.

because in him were the all things created, those in the heavens, and those upon

the earth, those visible, and those invisible, whether thrones, whether lordships,

whether principalities, whether authorities; all things through him, and for

him, have been created,

Colossians 1 17

He is before all things, and in him all things are held together.

And *he* is before all, and all things subsist together by him.

and himself is before all, and the all things in him have consisted.

Colossians 1 18

He is the head of the body, the assembly, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.

And *he* is the head of the body, the assembly; who is [the] beginning, firstborn from

among the dead, that *he* might have the first place in all things:

And himself is the head of the body -- the assembly -- who is a beginning, a first-

born out of the dead, that he might become in all [things] -- himself -- first,

Colossians 1 19

For all the fullness was pleased to dwell in him;

for in him all the fulness [of the Godhead] was pleased to dwell,

because in him it did please all the fulness to tabernacle,

Colossians 1 20

and through him to reconcile all things to himself, having made peace through the blood of his cross. Through him, I say, whether things on the earth, or things in the heavens.

and by him to reconcile all things to itself, having made peace by the blood of his cross --

by him, whether the things on the earth or the things in the heavens.

and through him to reconcile the all things to himself -- having made peace

through the blood of his cross -- through him, whether the things upon the earth,

whether the things in the heavens.

Colossians 1 21

You, being in past times alienated and enemies in your mind in your evil works,

And you, who once were alienated and enemies in mind by wicked works, yet now has it

reconciled

And you -- once being alienated, and enemies in the mind, in the evil works, yet

now did he reconcile,

Colossians 1 22

yet now he has reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and

without blemish and blameless before him,

in the body of his flesh through death; to present you holy and unblamable and

irreproachable before it,

in the body of his flesh through the death, to present you holy, and unblemished,

and unblameable before himself,

Colossians 1 23

if it is so that you continue in the faith, grounded and steadfast, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which was preached in all creation under heaven; of which I, Paul, was made a servant.

if indeed ye abide in the faith founded and firm, and not moved away from the hope of

the glad tidings, which ye have heard, which have been proclaimed in the whole

creation which [is] under heaven, of which *I* Paul became minister.

if also ye remain in the faith, being founded and settled, and not moved away from

the hope of the good news, which ye heard, which was preached in all the

creation that [is] under the heaven, of which I became -- I Paul -- a ministrant.

Colossians 1 24

Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and fill up on my part that which is lacking of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body`s sake, which is the assembly;

Now, I rejoice in sufferings for you, and I fill up that which is behind of the tribulations

of Christ in my flesh, for his body, which is the assembly;

I now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and do fill up the things lacking of the

tribulations of the Christ in my flesh for his body, which is the assembly,

Colossians 1 25

of which I was made a servant, according to the stewardship of God which was given me toward you, to fulfill the word of God,

of which *I* became minister, according to the dispensation of God which [is] given me

towards you to complete the word of God,

of which I -- I did become a ministrant according to the dispensation of God, that

was given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God,

Colossians 1 26

the mystery which has been hidden for ages and generations. But now it has been revealed to his saints,

the mystery which [has been] hidden from ages and from generations, but has now been

made manifest to his saints;

the secret that hath been hid from the ages and from the generations, but now

was manifested to his saints,

Colossians 1 27

to whom God was pleased to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, who is Christ in you, the hope of glory;

to whom God would make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among

the nations, which is Christ in you the hope of glory:

to whom God did will to make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this

secret among the nations -- which is Christ in you, the hope of the glory,

Colossians 1 28

whom we proclaim, admonishing every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ;

whom *we* announce, admonishing every man, and teaching every man, in all wisdom, to

the end that we may present every man perfect in Christ.

whom we proclaim, warning every man, and teaching every man, in all wisdom,

that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus,

Colossians 1 29

for which I also labor, striving according to his working, which works in me mightily.

Whereunto also I toil, combating according to his working, which works in me in power.

for which also I labour, striving according to his working that is working in me

in power.

Study Questions

What have we been delivered from? 1:13
 
Who is the head of the body? 1:12-18 (especially vs. 14)