From the editor

After 15 years at Tenth Presbyterian Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Philip Ryken accepted the call to become the next president of Wheaton College. He will begin his new position on July 1, 2010. We have featured several of Ryken's sermons throughout the years on PreachingToday.com, and we're excited to bring yet another your way this week—a probing look at Ecclesiastes.

Introduction

To mark the 300th birthday of Philadelphia's most famous citizen, the Philadelphia Orchestra commissioned Daniel Kellogg to write a new work of music in honor of Benjamin Franklin. When his commission was announced at a public preview of the orchestra's 2006 season, the composer asked the audience for a few suggestions. What word would they use to describe a work of music that was appropriate for Mr. Franklin?

"Revolutionary," someone answered, thinking of Franklin's central role in freeing the United States from English tyranny. "Electric!" shouted another member of the audience, thinking of the famous experiment with the kite, the key, and the bolt of lightning. But the man who drew the biggest laugh told Mr. Kellogg to make sure that his composition was "profitable." After all, what would be more in keeping with the entrepreneurial spirit of Benjamin Franklin than making a little money?

Many of Franklin's most famous maxims promote good, honest capitalism. He commented on the worth of money: "Nothing but money is sweeter than honey." He praised the virtue of hard work: "Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise." He encouraged people to be frugal: "Beware of small expenses; a small leak will sink a great ship." Then there is his most famous proverb: "A penny saved is a penny earned." As ...

Philip Ryken is president of Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois.