The Whole Duty of Youth Also

Minister:
Date: PM
Text: Ecclesiastes 12:13
  1. The idea.
    1. “The words of the wise” (11) consists of the “acceptable words” of the preacher: “even words of truth” (10).
      1. Much study of many books all by itself is a “weariness” because is only results in temporary value and pride.
      2. The “conclusion” or summary is drawn from learning the end, sum or goal of everything.
    2. The heart of the issue is the fear of Jehovah.
      1. To “fear” is to tremble, i.e., hard beating of the heart evidenced in especially the trembling of the body’s limbs.
      2. Involved is an immediate drawing back and a turning away but also an attraction so stay and keep looking.
    3. Always implied in the fear of Jehovah is a constant grasp of man’s spiritual insignificance and depravity.
  2. The elements of the fear of Jehovah.
    1. An ever increasingly correct understanding of God, His holy character, His mighty works, purposes and ways.
      1. We cannot see Him physically, but we do have His revelation of Him in creation, Scriptures, and in His Son.
      2. This correct understanding includes the revelation of His unconditional love to be our Friend and Father.
      3. This results in “filial fear,” a childlike awe.
    2. A pervasive awareness of His presence.
      1. Are aware that He is not far from us, for it is in Him that we live and move and have our being (Acts 17).
      2. It is to be constantly aware of His presence.
    3. This results in a constraining sense of our obligations to Him: “and keep His commandments.”
      1. Thus any professed fear of God which does not obey Him is a fake.
      2. It is such respect for God that we unquestioningly obey His revealed will.
  3. Applications.
    1. This is “the whole duty of man” is literally, “for this, all men.”
      1. This is universal in its application – it concerns all mankind, youth and children and adults.
      2. While it is the duty of all, only grace can make the knowledge lead to the fear of Jehovah.
    2. The responsibility to fear God is a summary of what man should always have in mind.
    3. Powerful and striking is the last word: God will bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing – did we fear God?