SPIRITUAL CONCLUSION

Spiritual Conclusion
By Pastor R.A. Woods

Text: Ecclesiastes 12:13 (KJV)
13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14
Intro: Conclusion: termination or end of. Solomon, the son of David, the richest man that ever lived, when he assumed the kingdom, didn't ask God for riches, power, houses and land. He asked God to give him the wisdom to go in and to come out, to lead God's people. God was so impressed with Solomon's request, that he not only gave him wisdom, but blessed him with riches untold. As you read through the chapters in Ecclesiastes, you will find that he had experiences that brought problems to his life.

Vanity: Emptiness. (All is vanity and vexation of the spirit)

There is nothing wrong with having nice things! There is nothing wrong with having riches, material things, position, etc. The problem in them is when we allow them to own us instead of us owning them, also allowing these things to become more important than God. So that brings us to an all important conclusion, which is spiritual in nature. What is it that we can do that really matters in life, thats fulfilling and satisfying? The answer is fulfill our duty to God, not only that, but our whole duty. (complete duty)

Illustration: Day Of Judgment And Daily Work
Once in New England, a strange darkness fell at noon time. The birds started their evening songs, chickens went to roost, and cows returned from pasture. The Connecticut State Legislature was in session and it was suggested that they should adjourn, as the Day of Judgment had come. One of the legislators took the floor and said: "I am against adjournment. The Day of Judgment is either approaching or it is not. If it is not, there is no cause for adjournment. If it is, I choose to be found doing my duty. Let candles be brought in!"
Later, the poet Whittier wrote about this incident. And there he stands in memory to this day, erect, self-poised, a rugged face half seen against a background of unnatural dark--a witness to the ages as they pass that simple duty hath no place for fear.

I. Fear God

A.Fear: to stand in awe or reverence. (to look at with respect)

1. Proverbs 9:10 (KJV)
10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

2. Hebrews 10:31 (KJV)
31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

a. It's a fearful thing to know that you have not accepted Jesus Christ as your personal savior, that you have not repented of your sins and made peace with God.

b. It's a fearful thing to know that we are going to answer for every deed done in our bodies.

c. 2 Corinthians 5:10-11 (KJV)
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God,' and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.

II. Keep His Commandments (It's all founded and based on love)

A. Commandments: Is an order or directive.
1. John 14:15 (KJV)
15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.

2. John 15:10 (KJV)
10 If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.

1. When you really love God, his commandments are not grievous, they don't irritate you to do them. Real love will motivate you to obey God, and fulfill his will for your life.

Conclusion: The conclusion of the matter is that it's your duty to fear God, keep his commandments.