OUTLINE OF ECCLESIASTES

1. Introduction (1:1-11)
   Statement of theme and purpose (1:1-3)
   Continuous cycle of life and events (1:4-11)

2. An examination of temporal things (1:12-3:22)
   Wisdom as life's goal (1:12-18)
   Pleasure as an objective (2:1-11)
   The paradox of wisdom (2:12-23)
   God's wisdom and purpose in creation (2:24-3:15)
   Man's accountability to God (3:16-22)

3. An analysis of man's economic relationship (4:1-7:29)
   Life of the oppressed is vain (4:1-16)
   Vanity of religion and riches (5:1-17)
   Capacity to enjoy is God-given (5:18-6:12)
   Temperance practical in all things (7:1-19)
   Man has fallen from original state (7:20-29)

4. The limitations of man's wisdom (8:1-12:14)
   Man's analysis limited to this life (8:1-17)
   Life is designed for man's enjoyment (9:1-12)
   Wisdom is practical and beneficial (9:13-10:20)
   Advice to youth (11:1-12:7)
   Conclusion -- fear God (12:8-14)