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These are the words of a wise and a bold preacher. He was wise in seeing that which men in general did not see; and he was bold in speaking so plainly that which was contrary to the general opinion.

I. THE VANITY OF EARTHLY THINGS. "All is vanity;" that is, all things are so in themselves, when not used aright, when not employed to God's glory, or to the benefit of those around us, or in reference to our future and everlasting welfare. We may proceed to a practical illustration and use of this declaration.

1. Let us suppose the case of riches, as being the main object of a man's desire, and the acquirement of them the great business of his life. Nay, let us suppose him to succeed — to acquire great wealth — to establish his house. But if this man be without religion, what is it all more than vanity? It is possible that all this time he may never have thought about his soul; his soul which is more valuable than all the world. To what purpose will it be when his end shall come? What will his wealth do for him in the day of account? "Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days," and what is it? It is vanity, a vapour, emptiness! And what is to become of his wealth? He must "leave it unto the man that shall be after him; and who knoweth whether he shall be a wise man or a fool?"

2. As to human learning. It is true that learning, and ingenuity, and wit may be made very subservient to many important purposes; but if it be apart from true religion, what doth it profit? Let us suppose a man to be stored with all science, and philosophy, with the knowledge of all history, and of every art. But if he have not the knowledge of Christ; if, withal, he is "sensual not having the spirit," what matters it? We have seen men endowed with extraordinary talents, great in research, quick in understanding, penetrating in intellect, rich in all the stores of recondite wisdom, versed in history, and as far as we can judge, possessing all knowledge; but where is the meekness of the Christian? where is docility, gentleness, and love?

3. As to the pleasures of life. Let a man have all the pleasure arising from intercourse with polished society, from rational conversation, from good and instructive books, from travelling at home and abroad, from various domestic recreations, according to his own peculiar turn of mind; yet, what does all this profit if he be destitute of true religion; if he be living to himself rather than to God? But we say, what will all this avail, if its votary or possessor be destitute of true religion here, and miserable and undone in another world!

4. We might go on to consider eminence of station, and elevated rank, and reputation, and extensive power, and commanding influence, and all beside that men are accustomed to seek after, and which they make so many sacrifices to obtain; and what are they all apart from true religion? "Vanity of vanities." Suppose a man to have gained all The reputation and dignity in the world, what will it avail if he be destitute of the "one thing needful," if he have not Sought the honour that cometh from God?

II. WHAT IS OUR CHIEF GOOD?

1. I would direct your attention to those true riches, the unsearchable riches of Christ.

2. I would recommend to you that heavenly wisdom by which you will be made wise unto salvation, which will teach you to discharge your social duties aright, and which will conduct you in safety through all the difficulties of life.

3. I would allure you to those pleasures which are for evermore.

4. I would lead you to that honour and praise which cometh from God, and which fadeth not away.

(J. Maude.)

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KJV: Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity.

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