The Emptiness of Oppression and Isolation

There are two main themes in Ecclesiastes 4:1-16: Oppression and Isolation.

1. We see oppression but we long for justice.

Examples of Oppression in Scripture

• Cheating one’s neighbor of something.
• Making unjust gain.
• Abusing power.
• Neglecting or harming the vulnerable.
• Denying people of rights and justice.
• Mass Genocide, Infanticide

We live in isolation but we were designed for community.

We weren’t meant to be alone. Gospel community offers:

• Help (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, Galatians 6:1-2)
• Comfort (Ecclesiastes 4:11, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
• Protection (Ecclesiastes 4:12)

The “One Another’s”

• Accept one another, – Romans 15:7
• Instruct one another – Romans 15:14
• Greet one another with a holy kiss. – 1 Corinthians 16:20
• Agree with one another – 1 Corinthians 1:10
• Serve one another – Galatians 5:13
• Bear with one another – Ephesians 4:2
• Be kind and compassionate to one another – Ephesians 4:32
• Forgive one another other – Ephesians 4:32
• Encourage one another – Hebrews 3:13
• Live in harmony with one another – 1 Peter 3:8
• Offer hospitality to one another – 1 Peter 4:9
• Carry one another’s burdens – Galatians 6:2
• Love one another – John 13:34
• Honor one another – Romans 12:10

Here at Hope Valley Church we put the “One Another’s” to action in our Hope Communities.

• UP: worship, devotion, bible study
• IN: Fellowship, encouragement, prayer
• OUT: mission, outreach, acts of service