Synopses & Reviews
IS THIS ALL THERE IS TO LIFE?
Is there really nothing new under the sun? Is life really just a meaningless and empty journey to nothingness, as the atheist would have us believe? Since the days of Solomon--and before--men and women have wondered: Is this all life is about? Is it just an endless pursuit after things that never satisfy? Where can I find lasting contentment and joy?
In this inspiring exploration of Ecclesiastes, beloved Bible teacher Ray Stedman guides you through this ancient book of biblical wisdom to demonstrate that the answer is and always has been this: Contentment and joy are gifts of God. They come to people who take life daily, whatever it may bring, from the hand of a loving Father.
The record is plain for all to see, says Stedman. Life without God is dull and empty. Life with Him is full and satisfying. Even the tears and pain have meaning and value when we see that the purpose behind it all is the increase of our joy.
Synopsis
Since the days of Solomon, men and women have wondered, 'Is this all life is about?' 'Is it just a mindless pursuit after things that never satisfy?' Ray Stedman guides readers through the book of Ecclesiastes to demonstrate that contentment and joy are gifts from God. They come to people who each day take life--whatever it may bring--from the hand of a loving Father.
About the Author
Dr. Ray C. Stedman (1917-1992) grew up in the rugged cowboy country of Montana. Abandoned by his father when he was a young boy and emotionally cut-off from his mother, Ray had a ruggedly independent upbringing. Yet, through faith, he matured into one the great pastors, expositors, and spiritual leaders of the twentieth century. Todays church is filled with pastors and leadersmen like David Roper, Charles Swindoll, and Luis Palauwho consider him their mentor and lifelong friend. Ray was a mans man, who ended up being the father of four daughters. He and his family lived through the turbulent era of the 1960s and the Jesus Movement, a time of turmoil and heartache for Ray and his wife, Elaine, and a remarkable time of growth and expansion in his own ministry. Biblical teaching (exposition) was Rays calling and his passion, and he motivated people by the power of the preaching of the Word of God. He also inspired and taught many through the written word. With over nineteen books to his credit, from Spiritual Warfare to his insightful commentary Adventuring Through the Bible, Stedmans published works span the experiences of Christian life. His book Body Life had tremendous impact on the church in the twentieth century. Ray Stedmans preeminent goal was to be a faithful steward of the gifts God had given him. (Taken from the cover of Portrait of IntegrityThe Life of Ray C. Stedman by Mark S. Mitchell)