A simple girl working in a vineyard, browned by the sun and convinced she is no beauty, catches the eye of the king himself. That scene opens a new series on the Song of Songs (Song of Songs 1), the biblical poem about love and intimacy that preachers so often pass over in silence. The message asks what should genuinely draw us to another person, and why real love refuses to be rushed. Listen, whatever stage of relationship you find yourself in today.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In Song of Songs 1 the woman is first captivated by the king's name, not his looks. What did a name signify in that culture, and what does this detail reveal about what drew her to him?
- The woman describes herself as "dark", yet later says "I am a rose of Sharon, a lily of the valleys". According to the text and the sermon, what changed the way she saw herself?
- The sermon says that true love draws its strength from character. How can you tell what is superficial in another person from what really matters, and what role does the opinion of people close to you play?
- The woman refuses to wander veiled among the shepherds' flocks and does not give up her morals to win a man. What does her attitude teach you in a world that encourages quick conquest?
- The verse "do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires" stops the story right where a film would show a love scene. Why do you think true love cannot be rushed?
- Who can you speak words of delight, appreciation or tenderness to this week, the way the king spoke to his beloved, and how do you plan to do it?
