Job, A Man of God

INTRODUCTION: Uz was most likely country of Idumea, Lam. 4:21, or at least bordering on Idumea (or the land of Edom). The land was called by the name of Uz, the son of Dishan, the son of Seir Gen. 36:28.

Us was north of Arabia, lying towards the Euphrates. It was here that the Chaldeans and Sabeans lived, who stole from him.

Job (meaning sorrowful, because he wept, greatly tried) was not only incredibly afflicted in life’s struggle to find answers, tormented in his body, the loss of family, but also in his mind and conscience, by the sharp temptation of his wife and friends. Their words and subtle arguing nearly brought him to despair.

They believed God was a sincere and fair judge, but a mortal enemy to anyone who had ceased to believe in Him. Therefore, Job would seek God without hope or help. These friends came to Job under pretense of providing some consolation, but actually grieved him as much as his afflictions did. Job constantly resisted their teaching and eventually was successful to prove his points.

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. I Cor. 3:19

Job maintained a good perspective, but maybe could have handled it better. His adversaries have an evil attitude, but they defend it craftily and with deception. Job held that God did not always punish men according to their sins, but that he had secret and sovereign judgments, of which man did not know the cause. Therefore, man could not reason against God in His judgment and wisdom, but he should be convicted and be changed.

Moreover, he was assured that God had not rejected him. However, through his great trials and afflictions Job shows himself as a desperate man, as one that could resist God, and this is his good cause, which he handled well.

The adversaries maintain that God punishes continually according to man’s sin, but their intention is evil. They worked at bringing Job to despair, and so they maintain an evil cause. Ezekiel commends Job as a just man, Ezekiel 14:14, Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord GOD.

And James sets out his patience for an example, James 5:11, Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.

PURPOSES AND BASIC TRUTHS

*To demonstrate that God is worthy of love apart from the blessings He provides

*To explain that God may allow suffering as a means to purify and strengthen a person in godliness

*To emphasize that man is unable to view life from God's vast perspective

*To explore the justice of God who treats the righteous with suffering

*To demonstrate to the evil angels (Satan) that God's practice of blessing the righteous is not a hindrance to the development of true righteousness

*To address Mankind's wrestling with affliction which defies human explanation

*God is in control even when He appears not to be

*We can trust God even when we have no explanation as to what is happening to us

*The reasons for suffering in a person's life are not necessarily related to human explanations of personal unrighteousness, but are within the scope of God's good and powerful providence resulting in the defeat of evil and glory to himself

The book falls naturally into three parts.

Prologue, written in prose (chapters1-2)

Dialogue itself, written in Hebrew poetry (chapters 3:1- 42:6)

There is the discussion between Job and his friends (chapters 3-31)

3 cycles of alternating speeches: Eliphaz begins (chapter 4), followed by Job, followed by Bildad, then Job, then Zophar, then Job. However, Zophar fails to respond in the third round, making the only exception to the order.

Then Elihu addressed the matter (chapters 32-37)

God closes the discussion with the epilogue, again written in prose (chapter 42:7-12)

Job’s Character and Testimony: Jobs qualities were noticed by the Lord

And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? 1:8; 2:3

But, they were also noticed by his greatest enemy: Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for nought? 1:9

Jobs life and testimony allowed him the privilege to be honored by the Lord to suffer, and be buffeted by Satan. The Lord knew that Job would be spiritually successful. This in itself is an incredible event.

The Qualities of Job, Job 1:1

A famous evangelist told the following incident: I have a friend who in a time of business recession lost his job, a sizable fortune, and his beautiful home. To add to his sorrow, his precious wife died; yet he tenaciously held to his faith -- the only thing he had left. One day when he was out walking in search of employment, he stopped to watch some men who were doing stonework on a large church. One of them was chiseling a triangular piece of rock. 'Where are you going to put that?' he asked. The workman said, 'Do you see that little opening up there near the spire? Well, I'm shaping this stone down here so that it will fit in up there.' Tears filled my friend's eyes as he walked away, for the Lord had spoken to him through that laborer whose words gave new meaning to his troubled situation. Daily Bread

God Is Right in All His Judgments

Deuteronomy 32:4 He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.

Psalm 18:30, As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.

So, how can we be perfect and upright. We are able to be complete in our mind and heart through the grace of Christ, as well as living within the realm of God’s design. That design is to be perfect, even as our Father which is in heaven Is perfect.

Noah: These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God. Genesis 6:9

Abraham: And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. Genesis 17:1

Hezekiah: I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. 2 Kings 20:3

Zacharias: ...Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. Luke 1:5-6

Asa: 1 King 15:14 But the high places were not removed: nevertheless Asa's heart was perfect with the LORD all his days.

THE WAY OF LIFE PROVIDED BY THE LORD IS TO BE PERFECT AND UPRIGHT “The possibility of being perfect (mature in attitude) and upright living (living out the actions we know are godly), is only possible due to the perfect work of Christ in our lives, and the continuous action of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God.” DEM

God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect. 2 Samuel 22:33

That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:17

To Be Perfect We Must Reflect Christ in Our Lives And Be Like Christ: Luke 6:40 The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master.

Phil. 3:15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

It Is a Constant Challenge to Walk Perfectly with the Lord. It is the prayer of every father for his children to walk perfectly and uprightly before God.

1 Chronicles 28:9 And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever.

1 Chron. 29:19 And give unto Solomon my son a perfect heart, to keep thy commandments, thy testimonies, and thy statutes, and to do all these things, and to build the palace, for the which I have made provision.

It Is a Personal Choice To Walk With The Lord, Under The Direction Of His Word: My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. 23:11

Doth not he see my ways, and count all my steps? If I have walked with vanity, or if my foot hath hasted to deceit; Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity. 31:4-6

In Order to Fear God, We must Also Walk Uprightly (With Sincerity): Psalm 11:7 For the righteous LORD loveth righteousness; his countenance doth behold the upright.

Psalm 8:23 I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine iniquity.

Joy Is a Benefit of Being Upright and Sincere: Psalm 32:11 Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.

Peace Is a Benefit of Being Upright and Sincere: Psalm 37:37 Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.

There Is a Great Contrast in the Scripture Between Being Upright and Wicked:

Proverbs 11:3 The integrity of the upright shall guide them: but the perverseness of transgressors shall destroy them.

Proverbs 11:6 The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in their own naughtiness.

Proverbs 11:11 By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked.

Proverbs 11:20 They that are of a froward heart are abomination to the LORD: but such as are upright in their way are his delight.

Proverbs 12:6 The words of the wicked are to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall deliver them.

Proverbs 13:6 Righteousness keepeth him that is upright in the way: but wickedness overthroweth the sinner.

1:1 Continued Job’s Character: A Way of Life, Understanding and Responsibility

THE WAY OF LIFE PROVIDED BY THE LORD IS TO BE PERFECT AND UPRIGHT

perfect and upright - The possibility of being perfect (mature in attitude) and upright living (living out the actions we know are godly), is only possible due to the perfect work of Christ in our lives, and the continuous action of the Holy Spirit through the Word of God. DEM

THE WAY OF UNDERSTANDING IS FOR THOSE WHO ARE PERFECT AND UPRIGHT

and one that feared God, -

A Proper Fear of God Keeps Us from Eventual Sin: By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil. Prov. 16:6

Prov. 14:16 A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident

If we fear God, our actions are an indicator of that fear. We cannot say we fear God and then continue in our sin, or association with sin and evil.

Neh. 5:9 Also I said, It is not good that ye do: ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach of the heathen our enemies?

Neh. 5:15 But the former governors that had been before me were chargeable unto the people, and had taken of them bread and wine, beside forty shekels of silver; yea, even their servants bare rule over the people: but so did not I, because of the fear of God.

Gen. 48:18 And Joseph said unto them the third day, This do, and live; for I fear God:

Without the Fear of God People Act with Impunity: Gen. 20:11 And Abraham said, Because I thought, Surely the fear of God is not in this place; and they will slay me for my wife's sake.

Psalm 36:1 The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes.

Romans 3:12-18 They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Their throat is an open sepulchre; with their tongues they have used deceit; the poison of asps is under their lips: Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:

Their feet are swift to shed blood: Destruction and misery are in their ways: And the way of peace have they not known: There is no fear of God before their eyes.

Godly Men, Who Fear God, Can Rule Properly:

2 Sam. 23:3 The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.

2 Chron. 19:9 And he charged them, saying, Thus shall ye do in the fear of the LORD, faithfully, and with a perfect heart. (Jehoshaphat speaking to Judah)

Others Begin to Fear God When They the Power of God in the Lives of His Children:

2 Chron. 20:29 And the fear of God was on all the kingdoms of those countries, when they had heard that the LORD fought against the enemies of Israel.

2 Chron. 20: 10 And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that were round about Judah, so that they made no war against Jehoshaphat.

Those Who Fear God Desire to Develop a Greater Sense of His Presence and Holiness:

2 Cor. 7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

I John 3:3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

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JOB’S SPIRITUAL LIFE, JOB 1:1-5

*Job Had a Proper Basis for His Spiritual Life (1:1) Perfect and Upright, Feared God, Eschewed evil.

*In the midst of spiritual wealth, there are dangers (1:3) His substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and a very great household;

Deut. 8:17-18 And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.

2 Chron. 1:11-12 And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king: Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.

*In the midst of personal honor and glory, there are dangers (1:3) - “greatest of all the men of the east.”

Job 21:13 They spend their days in wealth, and in a moment go down to the grave.

Job 31:25 If I rejoiced because my wealth was great, and because mine hand had gotten much;

Ps. 49:6 They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;

Prov. 18:11 The rich man's wealth is his strong city, and as an high wall in his own conceit.

1 Cor. 10:24 Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth.

*Job’s children seem to have left him out of their feasting (1:4) ...”in their houses...and sent and called for their three sisters to eat and to drink with them.” -

Eccl. 5:19 Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.

*Job, apparently did not know what was going on in his children’s homes (1:4) “It may be that my sons have sinned...” - he apparently left them to themselves, giving them some freedom, but his interest in them was their spiritual lives. He may have limited his involvement so that would learn. Its too bad that he did seem have his children worship with him.

*Job sanctified them (1:5) when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, he prayed for his children, sacrificed for them, consecrating them God. I can hear him praying, “Lord, touch the lives of my children. Make them see that you are the sole purpose for living. Let them have a party and feast, but protect their lives. Show them your greatness, and keep them from sin.”

*Job had a spiritual priority and burden for his family (1:5) and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all: Job’s devotional life was important to him and he knew that prayer and example were important ways for them to see the right way to live their lives.

*Job Knew the Nature of the Human Heart, Including His Own (1:5) “...It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts...”

*Job Realized the Necessity to Be Constant in His Spiritual Life (1:5) “...Thus did Job continually.”

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THE CONTEST

Satan and His Host, Although Active on the Earth, Still must Report to God - 1:6-7

There is a specific time that they must report - 1:6; 2:1

“was a day”

Apparently, the angels and Satan are accountable to God - 1:6; 2:2

“...present themselves”

“Whence cometh thou” 2:2

“Satan answered the Lord” 1:7; 2:2

The host of Satan do not act alone - 1:6; 2:1 “Satan came also among them”

Satan has a desire to seek out people to torment and tempt - 1:6; 2:2

“Going to and fro in the earth”

“Walking up and down in it”

I Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

2 Cor. 12:7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

Observations:

You would think that Satan, as smart as he is, knows that the Lord has the power in the universe. Why fight against God.

You must come to the conclusion that Satan must act, due to his nature, out of hatred for God and God’s children. Mark 4:15 And these are they by the way side, where the word is sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.

Satan acts in a malicious and wicked manner, even though he understands he cannot defeat God Himself.

Satan, although he cannot defeat God, desires to disrupt the activities and destroy the testimony of God’s Children.

1Thess. 2:18 Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan hindered us.

THE COMBATANTS - 1:8; 2:3

The Lord knows His children’s testimony and character - 1:8; 2:3

And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job

that there is none like him in the earth

a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil?

THE CONFRONTATION - 1:9-12; 2:4-6

Satan questions God’s knowledge and wisdom

Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for nought? - 1:9

Satan knows that the Lord has a hedge of protection round His children - 1:10

Hast not thou made an hedge about him

and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side?

thou hast blessed the work of his hands

and his substance is increased in the land.

Satan wanted to take away his wealth, thinking that it would affect Job - 1:11

But put forth thine hand now, and touch all that he hath... curse thee...

Satan wanted to test Job in the physical Body - 2:4-5

Skin for skin, yea, all that a man hath will he give for his life. 2:4

touch his bone and his flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face. 2:5

Satan does not care who he destroys spiritually to accomplish his task - 2:3

although thou movedst me against him, to destroy him without cause.

And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat Luke 22:31

Acts 5:3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land?

THE CONDITIONS - 1:12; 2:4-6

God set the standard, remember He is in control - 1:12

he is in thine hand; but save his life. 2:6

THE CASUALTIES - 1:13-19; 2:7-9

Apparently, Job’s children were still partying and drinking - 1:13

The oxen were taken and the servants were killed - 1:14-15

Fire destroyed his sheep, servants - 1:16

The Chaldeans stole the camels and killed the servants - 1:17

His children were killed when their house fell down during a wind storm - 1:18-19

Job suffered boils over his entire body - 2:7

Job scrapped his boils to break them and sat down in a pile of ashes - 2:78

Job’s wife challenged his integrity and gave poor advice - 2:9

THE CONFESSION

Job’s immediate response was worship - 1:20

Then Job arose, and rent his mantle

and shaved his head,

and fell down upon the ground, and worshiped

Mt 4:10 Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

Job’s attitude was that everything belongs to God - 1:21

And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return

the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away;

Blessed be the name of the LORD.

Job was fully aware that the Lord makes no mistakes - 1:22

In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.

Job understood it was God’s wisdom and sovereignty must prevail - 2:10

What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?

In all this did not Job sin with his lips.

THREE PROPER ATTITUDES WHICH REFLECT CHRIST IN OUR LIVES

Our first response to adversity should not be to remove it, but to allow it to reveal our true weaknesses. 2 Corinthians 12:9

Our second response to adversity should not be to focus on outward circumstances, but to realize that we are dealing with unseen spiritual forces. Ephesians 6:12

Our third response to adversity should not be to live for Christ in our own efforts, but to realize that Christ must live in us through the power of His Holy Spirit. Galatians 2:20

BIBLICAL PURPOSES FOR TRIALS and DIFFICULTIES?

1. They God's way of getting our attention! Romans 8:28-29

Cares of this world., plans, goals, projects; problems, pressures; strength is drained

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Matt. 11:28-30

2. They are assurance that God loves us! Heb. 12:6-7 For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?

3. It drives to a point of self-examination! I Cor. 11:31-32; Psalm 139:23-24

Examine our hearts and confess sin - He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy. Prov. 28:13

Regular observance of the Lord's Supper - I Cor. 11:28

Self-examination must take place in God's Word - Eph. 6:2-3

Have we done evil to those who have done good to us? - Prov. 17:13

4. They stimulate us to conquer pride! Contention strife, conflict - But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. James 4:6-7

5. Trials reminds us of our weaknesses and absolute dependence upon God - 2 Cor. 12:7-10

6. Trials drive us to our knees - Psalm 3:17-18 The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles. The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.

7. Difficulties remind us that life is a spiritual warfare! I Peter 5:8; Eph. 6:11-18

8. Trials and Adversity purify our faith! - And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Romans 5:3-8; Heb. 11:13; 11:33-40

9. Trials challenge us to test our labors and work! every spiritual house is tested - Matt. 7:24-27

10. Tribulation allows us to evaluate friendship - Prov. 17:17 A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

11. Adversity is God's call to identify with Christ! - Phil. 3:8-11 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

12. Trails prepare us to comfort others! II Cor. 1:3-5; 4:8-10,12,16

*God does not permit adversity for the purpose of defeating us, but for our benefit!

HOW TO AVOID UNNECESSARY ADVERSITY

*Recognize the danger of the tongue! James 3:4-6

*David's concern for his tongue - Psalm 15:1-3; 34:12-13; 140:1-3

HOW TO AVOID THE DISCIPLINE OF THE LORD - Hebrews 12:12-24

1. listen carefully! WHY? McCain - "Lest your spiritual limping becomes a leg out of joint"

2. Don't be despondent when confronted with God's discipline!

3. Encourage yourself in the Lord and "lift up" (set upright, restore to straightness or set dislocated bones). cf. Isaiah 35:3-4

4. Make necessary corrections in your life so that healing occurs. Recovery from God's discipline occurs when correction takes place. Prov. 2:20; 3:5-6 WHY? "lest that which is lame be turned out of the way"/

5. let it be healed

6. restore hindered relationships

7. look diligently

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Job 2:7-13 Job’s Integrity and His Friends

JOB’S INTEGRITY (2:7-10)

*His Circumstance Was Beyond Description (2:7-8)

So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with sore boils from the sole of his foot unto his crown. And he took him a potsherd to scrape himself withal; and he sat down among the ashes.

*His Wife Apparently Recognized His Integrity (2:9)

Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity?

*His Wife Did Not Stand by Him in His Trial (2:9)

“...curse God, and die.”

*Job Understood God’s Greatness (2:10) “...What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.”

JOB’S THREE FRIENDS - 2:11-13

*They Apparently Cared for Job and His Family -

“heard...they came”...

“for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him.”

“they lifted up their voice, and wept;”

“and they rent every one his mantle,”

“and sprinkled dust upon their heads toward heaven.”

“So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights,”

“and none spake a word unto him: for they saw that his grief was very great.”

Eliphaz the Temanite, Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite

All three had advice to give Job. Although some of things they said were true, much of their teaching and advice was wrong. God’s view is clearly seen in 42:7-8

And it was so, that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath. Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job.

Eliphaz the Temanite: Most likely a native of Teman, in Idumea. He challenged Job regarding special sins as the cause of his present sufferings. He spoke with strong language, but trying to teach the infinite purity and majesty of God (Job 4:12-21; Job 15:12-16).

“Eliphaz claimed to have been given secret knowledge through a special revelation from God (Job 4:12-16), and that he had learned much from personal experience (Job 4:8). He argued that suffering is a direct result of sin, so if Job would only confess his sin, his suffering would end.

Eliphaz saw suffering as a result of God's punishment. Therefore, suffering should be a good thing which would bring us back to God. In some cases, of course, this may be true (Galatians 6:7,8) Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

Eliphaz made several wrong assumptions:

(1) a good and innocent person never suffers

(2) those who suffer are being punished for their past sins

(3) Job, because he was suffering, had done something wrong in the sight of God.

Eliphaz first sat with Job for seven days. When he spoke he told Job that cause of his suffering was personal sin. His advice was to bring his cause to God (5:8) for some resolution. Job answered him by telling Eliphaz to take back his false accusations (6:29)

4:7-8 Part of what Eliphaz said was true, but the way in which it was present, made it false. Those who promote sin will eventually be punished. Even the innocent and good suffer on occasion.

Notes for 4:12,13 - Eliphaz claimed that his vision was given by God, bu that contradicts what the Lord had to say in Job 42:7 - And it was so, that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath.

Eliphaz’s message is summarized in Job 4:17. Shall mortal man be more just than God? shall a man be more pure than his maker?

Man should not question God's motives, actions or wisdom. Eliphaz expressed his own opinions. His conclusion in Job 5:8-9 I would seek unto God, and unto God would I commit my cause:

Which doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number:

He did not understand Job and his suffering. Never limit God to your perspective and finite understanding of life.

Bildad the Shuhite: Son of contention - probably as belonging to Shuah, a district in Arabia, in which Shuah, the sixth son of Abraham by Keturah, settled (Gen 25:2). He took part in each of the three controversies into which Job's friends entered with him, and delivered three speeches, very severe and stern in their tone, although less violent than those of Zophar.

Bidad sat with Job for seven days. Bildad accused Job of refusing to admit his sin, so he was still suffering. He challenged Job in 8:2, How long wilt thou speak these things? and how long shall the words of thy mouth be like a strong wind? Job’s response to Bildad was tell me what charges you have against me (Job 10:1-2): My soul is weary of my life; I will leave my complaint upon myself; I will speak in the bitterness of my soul. I will say unto God, Do not condemn me; shew me wherefore thou contendest with me.

Zophar the Naamathite: rising early, crown - possibly from Arabia. Little is known about Naamah.

He also sat in silence for seven days with Job. Zophar taught that Job deserved even more suffering than he was experiencing. He challenged Job to get rid of his sin (11:13-14). If thou prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands toward him; If iniquity be in thine hand, put it far away, and let not wickedness dwell in thy tabernacles.

Job answered Zophar, telling him basically that he would be justified before God (13:18): Behold now, I have ordered my cause; I know that I shall be justified.

Elihu the Buzite: (Job 32-37) Explained Job’s suffering was to mold and to train him. He wanted Job to listen to wisdom and be silent (33:33) If not, hearken unto me: hold thy peace, and I shall teach thee wisdom. Job gave no response to Elihu regarding his teaching.

God: (38-41) God confronted Job with the need to be content, but did not explain the reason for Job’s pain and suffering. Do you still want to argue with God Almighty? (40:1-2) Moreover the LORD answered Job, and said, Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him? he that reproveth God, let him answer it.

Job answered God (42:3-5) I was talking about thing that were far beyond my personal understanding. Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. Hear, I beseech thee, and I will speak: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee.

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Job’s Circumstance and Understanding - Job 3:20-23

Introduction: After all that Job has experienced in the destruction of all that he owned, and the death of all his children, and the poor response of his only living relative (wife) - now Job responds, telling how he feels about his circumstance (3:1-19).

Job then tells what God can do (3:20-23), prior to Eliphaz beginning his lecture to Job.

JOB’S FEELINGS ABOUT HIS CIRCUMSTANCE (3:1-19)

Job Cursed the Day - 3:1-3 ...and cursed his day....Let the day perish wherein I was born...the night...There is a man child conceived. Let that day be darkness; let not God regard it from above, neither let the light shine upon it. Cf. 10:18-19

Job wanted the day hidden from history - 3:5-6 ...let a cloud dwell upon it; let the blackness of the day terrify it. As for that night, let darkness seize upon it; let it not be joined unto the days of the year, let it not come into the number of the months.

Job could see no joy that would come from his birth - 3:7-9 Lo, let that night be solitary, let no joyful voice come therein. Let them curse it that curse the day...Let the stars of the twilight thereof be dark; let it look for light, but have none; neither let it see the dawning of the day:

Job was sorry for the efforts of his mother - 3:10-12 Because it shut not up the doors of my mother's womb, nor hid sorrow from mine eyes. Why died I not from the womb? why did I not give up the ghost when I came out of the belly? Why did the knees prevent me? or why the breasts that I should suck?

Job thought it would better to have died with rest of mankind, rather than be born - 3:13-19

For now should I have lain still and been quiet, I should have slept: then had I been at rest, With kings and counsellors of the earth...with princes that had gold, who filled their houses with silver...as infants which never saw light...the wicked cease from troubling...the weary be at rest... prisoners rest together...The small and great are there; and the servant is free from his master.

JOB’S UNDERSTANDING OF GOD’S HEART (3:20-23)

Understanding is given as a gift to those who suffer (3:20) Wherefore is light given to him that is in misery, and life unto the bitter in soul;

God’s wisdom leaves us on this earth, but we desire something better (3:21)

We long for death during great suffering, but it does not come (3:21b-22)

We question why we gain knowledge during suffering (3:23) Why is light given to a man whose way is hid - Isn’t there some other way to learn the lessons?

We recognize that God has protected him from death, during suffering (3:23) and whom

God hath hedged in?

JOB’S REALIZED THAT SUFFERING IS PART OF LIFE (3:24-25)

Suffering can occur at any time in life (3:24) For my sighing cometh before I eat, and my roarings are poured out like the waters.

Often, suffering centers around our greatest fears (3:25) For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me. Cf. Job 1:5

We can no nothing to prevent suffering except trust (3:26) I was not in safety, neither had I rest, neither was I quiet; yet trouble came.

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What Is Man Compared To God - Job 9:1-35

The Question of a Lifetime (9:1-2) I know it is so of a truth: but how should man be just with God? The Lord is infinitely just and holy. Can a man approach this holiness and justice? The obvious answer is NO!

Romans 3:10-12 As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one.

We cannot attain to the height and breadth of God’s greatness. How can we approach God? How can we enter into His presence. What do we have to offer the God of the universe? The answer is NOTHING! We cannot justify ourselves before a holy God. We cannot bring ourselves up to His level of majesty and greatness.

The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good. The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God. They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one. Ps 14:1-3

For he hath looked down from the height of his sanctuary; from heaven did the LORD behold the earth; Ps. 102:19

The Question of Comparison (9:3-13) Physical Realm

9:3 We cannot answer back to God

9:4 We cannot fight against His power and strength and prosper or win

9:5-9 His power is awesome and unimaginable in the earth and the universe

9:10-11 His wisdom is beyond our comprehension

9:12 He chooses to bless or take away

9:13 If God will not withdraw his anger or we will perish

The Question of Man’s Knowledge (9:14-18) Mental Realm

9:14 We are not more intelligent than God, nor can argue our point successfully with God

9:15 Even when we are living right we cannot talk back, but we can pray

9:16 It is beyond my imagination to think that He would even converse with me

9:17-18 He discipline and punish if He chooses to do so

The Question of Personal Ability (9:20-24) Human Ability to Speak

9:19-20 My own evaluation is different that God’s evaluation of my ability to speak

9:21 My own imperfections are obvious, even when I see myself as perfect

9:22-23 God is just, and all men suffer

9:24 The world is not just, but the Lord is righteous and just

The Question of Personal Sin (9:25-29) Our True Condition

9:25-26 We only live so long and die. It is never enough time to live.

9:27-28 Man is never just. Men will hold us in contempt and guilty before God

9:29 Why waste time in a vain effort to please God. If I be wicked, why then labour I in vain?

The Question Answered with Truth (9:30-33) The Real Need of Our Lives

9:30-31 We can make a vain attempt to be clean, but it is only God who can cleanse

9:32 Our proclamation of judgment is not the same. We do not reason with God about the end.

9:33 No other advocate can stand between us and God and render a different verdict

The Question Has An Answer (9:34-35) A True Evaluation

9:34 Pray for His mercy and pardon from this miserable life and sin

9:35 Perfect love casts out fear and we can approach God with confidence.

Surely I Would Speak to the Almighty Job 13:1-14

The World Thinks They Have Great Knowledge, but Job Speaks with God (13:1-3)

1 Lo, mine eye hath seen all this, mine ear hath heard and understood it.

2 What ye know, the same do I know also: I am not inferior unto you.

3 Surely I would speak to the Almighty, and I desire to reason with God.

Job 23:3 Oh that I knew where I might find him! that I might come even to his seat!

Job 31:35 Oh that one would hear me! behold, my desire is, that the Almighty would answer me, and that mine adversary had written a book.

The World Has a Distorted View and Cannot See the Truth (13:4-5)

4 But ye are forgers of lies, ye are all physicians of no value.

5 O that ye would altogether hold your peace! and it should be your wisdom.

I Cor. 2:6-10 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.

I Cor. 6:14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

The World Needs the Truth of God and God Will Search Them out (13:6-9)

6 Hear now my reasoning, and hearken to the pleadings of my lips.

7 Will ye speak wickedly for God? and talk deceitfully for him?

8 Will ye accept his person? will ye contend for God?

9 Is it good that he should search you out? or as one man mocketh another, do ye so mock him?

Mark 2:17 When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.

Rom. 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

2 Pet. 3:9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

The World’s Philosophy Will Be Judged Because it Lacks Truth (13:10-12)

10 He will surely reprove you, if ye do secretly accept persons.

11 Shall not his excellency make you afraid? and his dread fall upon you?

12 Your remembrances are like unto ashes, your bodies to bodies of clay.

Prov. 12:17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.

Prov. 12:19 The lip of truth shall be established for ever: but a lying tongue is but for a moment.

Prov. 14:22 Do they not err that devise evil? but mercy and truth shall be to them that devise good.

Prov. 16:6 By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.

The World Does Not Want God’s People to Speak the Truth (13:13)

13 Hold your peace, let me alone, that I may speak, and let come on me what will.

The Needs To Trust God With Their Lives (13:14)

14 Wherefore do I take my flesh in my teeth, and put my life in mine hand?

God Is Always Right, Absolutely Job 13:15

13:15 Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.

INTRODUCTION: There should be a stark contrast between God’s people and the thinking of the world, or even worldly Christians.

Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

Luke 16:10-11 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?

2 Cor. 1:9-11 But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead: Who delivered us from so great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet deliver us;

The World’s View Is Characterized in the Scripture

Job 8:13-14 So are the paths of all that forget God; and the hypocrite's hope shall perish: Whose hope shall be cut off, and whose trust shall be a spider's web.

Job 15:31 (Eliphaz) Let not him that is deceived trust in vanity: for vanity shall be his recompence.

Isa. 30:1-3 Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt! Therefore shall the strength of Pharaoh be your shame, and the trust in the shadow of Egypt your confusion.

Jer. 7:8 Behold, ye trust in lying words, that cannot profit.

Psalm 49:6-7 They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;

None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:

God’s People Should Be Characterized by Complete and Open Trust in God

Ps. 2:12 Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.

Ps. 4:5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.

Ps. 5:11-12 But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee. For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.

Ps. 9:10 And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, LORD, hast not forsaken them that seek thee.

Ps. 19:2-3 The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. I will call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.

Ps. 37:4-7 Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.

Ps. 56:3-5 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me. Every day they wrest my words: all their thoughts are against me for evil.

Ps. 62:6-8 6 He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.

Two great examples of great trust and faith

David: I Samuel 17:40-46 (Goliath)

Psalm 23:4 (death)

2 Samuel 22:1-31 (after deliverance from Saul)

Daniel: Daniel 6:16-23

Job 23:8-12 God’s Choice - Our Choice

The Lord Works Without Our Knowledge and Permission (23:8-9)

Ps. 36:6 Thy righteousness is like the great mountains; thy judgments are a great deep: O LORD, thou preservest man and beast.

Eccles. 3:11 He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.

Man’s Attempts to Find out God’s Infinite Ways Are Unsearchable: Behold, I go forward, backward, left hand, right hand...

Job 9:10 Which doeth great things past finding out; yea, and wonders without number.

Rom. 11:33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!

The Lord Reveals Himself in His Own Time (It Takes Faith to Endure): he is not there, I cannot perceive him, I cannot behold him...he hideth himself, I cannot see him:

Job 11:7 Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?

Eccles. 8:17 Then I beheld all the work of God, that a man cannot find out the work that is done under the sun: because though a man labour to seek it out, yet he shall not find it; yea further; though a wise man think to know it, yet shall he not be able to find it.

The Lord Knows the Outcome of Our Trials and Sufferings (23:10a) But he knoweth the way that I take...

Ps. 139:1-3 To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David. O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.

The Lord Will Reward Us as We Are Faithful and Obedient (23:10-12a)

I Pet. 1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

A Realization of God’s Sovereign Wisdom Brings Great Understanding and Reward:

23:10b when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

Zech. 13:9 And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God.

A Faithful and Obedient Servant, During Trials, Is a Necessary Ingredient to Spiritual Success: 23:11-12a My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips...

Ps. 17:3 Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing; I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.

Job’s Attitude Reflected His View of God’s Truth (23:12b) I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.

Matt. 4:4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

Luke 8:21 And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.

Rom. 10:17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

1 Thess. 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.

Recognizing God’s Labor For Man - Job 24:1, 23-24

Introduction: Job, answering Eliphaz, said that nothing is hidden from the Lord. Why is it that man cannot see the hand of God in his life? Man sees only the staples of life as necessary for himself: food, clothing, housing. Every man for himself. Everyone else is inconsequential. It’s a dog eat dog world. Push, push, push for more. Make all you can, while you can.

In all his work for himself, the Lord is working to reveal to mankind the Lord’s purpose and plan for living. After reading Job’s description of man, and God’s desire to reveal Himself to man, you have to ask yourself, “Why is it that man cannot see what the Lord has done, or the end of his own feeble attempts to reason out life?

24:1 Why, seeing times are not hidden from the Almighty, do they that know him not see his days?

Job then lists the failures of man, at the very same time that God is acting on their behalf to reveal Himself to them.

Man Steals the Land and Property of His Neighbor (24:2-3)

24:2 Some remove the landmarks

24:2 they violently take away flocks, and feed thereof.

24:3 They drive away the ass of the fatherless, they take the widow's ox for a pledge.

Man Has No Compassion for the Poor and Needy (24:4-6)

24:4 They turn the needy out of the way

24:4 the poor of the earth hide themselves together.

24:5 Behold, as wild asses in the desert, go they forth to their work

24:5 rising betimes for a prey: the wilderness yieldeth food for them... children.

24:7 They cause the naked to lodge without clothing...have no covering in the cold.

24:8 They are wet...showers of the mountains, and embrace the rock for want of a shelter.

24:9 They pluck the fatherless from the breast, and take a pledge of the poor.

24:10 They cause him to go...without clothing, and they take away the sheaf from...hungry

24:21 He evil entreateth the barren that beareth not: and doeth not good to the widow.

Man Labors with All His Might to Gain That Which Cannot Bring Happiness (24:11-12)

24:11 Which make oil within their walls, and tread their winepresses, and suffer thirst.

24:12 Men groan from out of the city, and the soul of the wounded crieth out

Man Fights Against the Truth to Maintain His Own Philosophy of Living (24:13)

24:13 They are of those that rebel against the light

24:13 they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the paths thereof.

Man Lives in Immorality Thinking Nobody Will Know about it (24:14-17)

24:14 The murderer rising with the light killeth the poor and needy

24:14 and in the night is as a thief.

24:15 The eye also of the adulterer waiteth for the twilight, saying, No eye shall see me...

24:16 In the dark they dig through houses...they had marked for themselves in the daytime:

24:16 they know not the light.

24:17 For the morning is to them even as the shadow of death

24:17 if one know them, they are in the terrors of the shadow of death.

24:18 He is swift as the waters; their portion is cursed in the earth

24:18 he beholdeth not the way of the vineyards.

Man Will Receive Judgment from the God for His Actions (24:19-22)

24:19 Drought and heat consume the snow waters

24:19 so doth the grave those which have sinned.

24:20 The womb shall forget him

24:20 the worm shall feed sweetly on him

24:20 he shall be no more remembered; and wickedness shall be broken as a tree.

Man Uses Other Men to Accomplish His Wicked Deeds (24:22-23)

24:22 He draweth also the mighty with his power

24:22 he riseth up, and no man is sure of life.

What Has Man Achieved by All His Labors? (24:23-25)

24:23 Though it be given him to be in safety, whereon he resteth

24:23 yet his eyes are upon their ways.

24:24 They are exalted for a little while, but are gone and brought low

24:24 they are taken out of the way as all other, and cut off as the tops of the ears of corn.

Who Can Challenge the Logic and Reasoning of Job? (24:25)

24:25 And if it be not so now, who will make me a liar, and make my speech nothing worth?