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"A threefold cord is not quickly broken"

Text: Ecclesiastes 4:12

THE WISDOM OF GOOD COMPANY

Being a loner is not a great choice. This was an observation that became even more obvious to Solomon. He went on to advocate the idea of seeking good company.

“Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm;
But how can one be warm alone?
Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him.
And a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”
Ecclesiastes 4:11-12

1. “Again, if two lie down together, they will keep warm; but how can one be warm alone?”

a) The reference to “two” lying down

i) It can refer to siblings.

ii) It can also refer to spouses.

b) The scenario in mind

i) A bitterly cold winter.

ii) Two can huddle and find some warmth.

c) Being alone

i) No warmth would be generated.

ii) Being cold and lonely is not a great proposition.

2. “Though one may be overpowered by another, two can withstand him”

a) The scenario changes.

b) If an enemy were to attack, the individual may be easily defeated.

c) But if there are people who are:

i) Brothers-in-arms

ii) Family members

Together, they would be able to resist the enemy more effectively!

3. “And a threefold cord is not quickly broken”

a) In context, this is a reference to

i) Friends.

ii) Family.

b) In application

i) It is sometimes applied to a family.

ii) Some apply it to a husband, a wife and the Lord.

This is not altogether impossible, but this is not the focus of Solomon at all.

c) A cord

i) It is a reference to a rope.

ii) A rope (cord) made up of a single strand is not strong.

iii) A rope made up of two stands interwoven would be much stronger.

iv) A rope that is made up of three strands, would be very strong indeed!

The meaning of this imagery is clear. Wisdom suggests that we should not choose the path of a loner. Instead, we should be cultivating good friendship with others. Even if it is a family relationship, cultivation is necessary!