1. The Futility of Life?

2. 3: Power

3. Solomon ruled extensive lands

5. He had forced labourers It was an oppressive regime

6. Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

7. Solomon ruled extensive lands He had forced labourers It was an oppressive regime Huge building programme Centralisation of government Implication – near bankruptcy

8. Questions for discussion: Do you think Israel’s people were happy about the extent of Solomon’s power? Who created the obvious wealth? Do you think Solomon was proud of his achievements?

9. You need power only when you want to do something harmful. Otherwise, love is enough to get everything done.

10. How do we abuse power? At work, in relationships, at church Knowledge Money Influence Manipulation Shopping

11. Every time you spend money, you are casting a vote for the kind of world you want.

12. What should we be doing? Love Humility Service

13. When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.

14. Questions for personal reflection: Who among our family and friends do we constantly try to put down, even subconsciously? How can we as a community facilitate genuine love, humility and service? What would the world make of that? What kind of world do you really want? How do you show this in the way you live and spend?