Partnership

By Ed Pilapil Jr.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 • February 11, 2024 • English Service 10:00 AM

Sermon Introduction

Ecclesiastes is considered one of the wisdom books. But unlike Proverbs, it has a sarcastic tone coupled with realism. If Proverbs started with the fear of the Lord, Ecclesiastes would end with the fear of the Lord. The text is about working with others; it is about working with allies or partners. However, the principles in the text can be applied to marriage, whose designer is God.

Ed Pilapil Jr.
Senior Pastor

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

9 Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil. 10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! 11 Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? 12 And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Notes

Two are Better
It might be evident to some that two are better than one. This is true in the context of work as well as in the context of life. In life, the most sacred of partnerships are husband and wife. It is better to be united and share in the rewards of complementary labor thanto be married and not share at all.
9 Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their toil (Ecclesiastes 4:9).
Application: If we apply this to marriage, two people must work together to make it work. Both must share in the labor to build and strengthen their relationship. It takes effort from both parties, not one, but two. In due time, they will share in the reward. May we also bring to the consciousness of all that marriage is not just a physical and emotional union; it should be a partnership filled with godly purpose.
Benefits of Two
Aside from sharing in the rewards, there are other benefits of two stewards working together. Stewards of what? Stewards of each other. If one fails, the other can and must help. But who would take responsibility if one is alone?
10 For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up! 11 Again, if two lie together, they keep warm, but how can one keep warm alone? (Ecclesiastes 4:10-11).
Application: If we apply this to marriage, husband and wife should lift each other. It is not wise for husband and wife to ignore each other when one is having difficulty. Each should find a way to connect and uplift the other. However, the text is not about marriage, although it can be applied to marriage. The text is a general statement that it is not good to be alone.
Three is Better
In establishing a defense, two are better than one against attacks. But three is much better. There will always be external forces that can destroy individuals, but such forces will not quickly prosper when there are more defenders.
12 And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken (Ecclesiastes 4:12).
Application: If we apply this to marriage, husband and wife must submit to God. If they do not, there is no credible defense against all the forces that may attack. They should be a three-fold cord with God that cannot be easily broken.

Again, the text is about something other than marriage, although we can apply it there. The principle should be applied in ministry, business, career, and every worthy endeavor. People who fear God and submit to the Holy Scriptures should work together for the glory of God. The community must protect each other from false doctrines and forces seeking to destroy.

Reflection & Discussion

Why are two better than one?
What is the best defense against attackers, according to the text?
How does the text apply to marriage?