When Humans Act Like Beasts

Pastor Ben's sermon from Ecclesiastes 3:16–4:3 explains “life under the sun” as life without God, where wickedness appears even in justice and righteousness, power is misused, and oppression leaves people without comfort. Solomon’s observations include that humans can act like “beasts,” die, and be forgotten, and that power dynamics combined with selfishness produce ongoing systems of oppression that can make death seem preferable to life. The message contrasts this with Jesus’ kingdom mission (Luke/Isaiah) to bring good news to the poor and liberty to the oppressed, calling believers to notice and interrupt oppression, avoid participating in oppressive systems (including through employment), focus on their own power, and use attention, voice, spending, and relational sacrifice to care for the vulnerable.