What lessons can we learn from Solomon's accumulation of "male and female slaves"? Text Under Review Ecclesiastes 2:7: “I bought male and female slaves, and I had slaves who were born in my house…” Earthly Success Cannot Satisfy the Heart • Solomon’s ownership of people stands alongside his houses, vineyards, and treasures (Ecclesiastes 2:4–8). • After listing these triumphs, he confesses, “Everything was futile” (Ecclesiastes 2:11). • Lesson: Material gains—even the most extravagant—leave an empty space only God can fill (Luke 12:15; Matthew 16:26). Unrestrained Power Leads to Oppression • Deuteronomy 17:16–17 warned Israel’s kings not to “multiply” horses, wives, or silver—checks against tyranny. • Solomon multiplied all three, including slaves, showing how authority untethered to God’s limits oppresses others (Proverbs 14:31). • Lesson: Influence is stewarded, not exploited; leaders remain accountable to the Lord (Micah 6:8). God’s Law Protects Human Dignity • Israelite servitude was to be temporary and humane (Exodus 21:2; Leviticus 25:39–43). • Solomon’s vast, permanent labor force flaunted these safeguards (1 Kings 9:20–22). • Lesson: When God’s commands are sidelined, dignity erodes; obeying Scripture safeguards the vulnerable. A Contrast Pointing to a Greater King • Jesus declared, “Something greater than Solomon is here” (Matthew 12:42). • Whereas Solomon accumulated servants, Jesus “came not to be served, but to serve” (Mark 10:45). • Lesson: Solomon’s failure underscores our need for Christ, the perfect, servant-hearted King. Personal Application: Choosing Servant-Hearted Living • Let success drive us to generosity, not domination (1 John 3:17). • Use authority—at home, work, church—to lift others rather than control them (Ephesians 6:9). • Find contentment in Christ, not in possessions or status (Philippians 4:11-13). |
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