Text: Ecclesiastes 5:8-9
Theme: Power often leads to corruption, but God will hold the powerful accountable.
Application: Trusting God’s sovereignty over broken systems.
1. Injustice Can Cause Us to Doubt God
Injustice challenges our faith and can make us question God’s goodness.
The Teacher (Qoheleth) acknowledges the reality of oppression (Eccl. 3:16-18, 4:1-3).
Key Question: How do we reconcile a just God with a corrupt world?
2. Corruption in Human Power Structures
Eccl. 5:8-9 – Corruption is embedded in government and leadership.
Officials protect each other rather than upholding justice.
Biblical Example: The oppression of Israel under Pharaoh (Exodus 1:8-14).
3. God’s Justice Will Prevail
God sees all – No corruption escapes His notice (Prov. 15:3).
God will judge the wicked – (Eccl. 12:14, Ps. 73).
Jesus is the true King – His kingdom is one of righteousness and justice (Isa. 9:6-7).
4. How Should We Respond?
Do not lose faith – Trust in God’s sovereignty (Rom. 8:28).
Stand for justice – Speak up for the oppressed (Micah 6:8).
Fix your eyes on eternity – Earthly rulers are temporary, but God’s kingdom is forever (Dan. 2:44).
Reflection Questions:
How has injustice affected your faith?
How can you respond to injustice while trusting in God’s plan?
Where do you see God working, even in the midst of corruption?
🔹 Takeaway: Injustice is real, but God is still in control. He will judge the wicked and bring true justice. Stay faithful and trust in His perfect plan.
Bible Study Guide: Power and the Problem of Oppression
A 4-Day Study on Ecclesiastes 5:8-9
Theme: Power often leads to corruption, but God will hold the powerful accountable.
This study will help you reflect on the sermon, apply biblical truth to your life, and prepare your heart for next week’s message.
Day 1: Recognizing the Reality of Injustice
📖 Read: Ecclesiastes 5:8-9; Ecclesiastes 3:16-17
Reflection:
- Why does the Teacher (Qoheleth) tell us not to be surprised by injustice?
- How have you seen corruption in leadership and power structures in your own life?
- Does injustice ever make you question God’s goodness? Why or why not?
Hebrew Word Study:
- עָשֶׁק (ʿāšeq) – “Oppression”
- This word conveys the idea of unjust treatment, exploitation, or violent injustice.
- How does understanding this deepen your awareness of the severity of corruption?
🙏 Prayer Focus: Ask God to give you discernment when facing injustice and strength to trust His justice.
Day 2: Trusting in God’s Sovereignty Over Corrupt Systems
📖 Read: Psalm 73 (esp. vv. 2-3, 16-19); Ecclesiastes 7:29
Reflection:
- How did Asaph struggle with the prosperity of the wicked?
- What changed his perspective?
- How does this passage help you trust in God when injustice seems to prevail?
Hebrew Word Study:
- גָּבֹהַּ (gābōah) – “Lofty” or “Proud” (Eccl. 5:8)
- Often used to describe those in positions of authority who misuse power.
- How does pride contribute to injustice in leadership?
🙏 Prayer Focus: Pray for leaders to act justly and for your heart to remain steadfast in faith.
Day 3: Responding to Injustice with Righteousness
📖 Read: Micah 6:8; Proverbs 31:8-9; Romans 12:17-21
Reflection:
- What does God require of us when we see injustice?
- How can you “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” in your community?
- Why is it important to leave ultimate justice to God rather than taking vengeance?
Greek Word Study:
- Δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosýnē) – “Righteousness”
- This word means both justice and right living before God.
- How does pursuing righteousness combat injustice?
🙏 Prayer Focus: Ask God to give you wisdom in how to stand up for justice without losing faith in His sovereignty.
Day 4: Preparing for Next Week’s Message
📖 Read: Daniel 2:20-22; Revelation 21:1-5
Reflection:
- What does Daniel 2 teach about God’s authority over earthly rulers?
- How does the promise of Revelation 21 give hope for the future?
- What would change in your life if you fully trusted in God’s final justice?
Application Challenge:
This week, find one way to promote justice—whether through prayer, advocacy, or acts of kindness.
🙏 Prayer Focus: Thank God that He is the ultimate King who will establish perfect justice.
Final Thought:
This study helps us move from frustration with injustice to faith in God’s sovereignty. No corruption goes unnoticed by Him, and He will bring ultimate justice. Let’s trust in His plan while living righteously.
Next Steps:
- Write down one takeaway from this study.
- Share with someone how you’re learning to trust God in an unjust world.
- Pray for next week’s sermon and be ready to receive God’s word!