Job 15

Chapter Summary

In Job 15, Eliphaz delivers his second speech, where he condemns Job's words as empty and devoid of wisdom (Job 15:2-3). He argues that Job's suffering is a result of his own sin, and that he should repent and turn to God (Job 15:5-6, 20). Eliphaz also shares his own experiences and observations, claiming that the wicked will ultimately be punished and that the righteous will prosper (Job 15:17-35). However, despite Eliphaz's attempts to provide wisdom, his words ultimately fall short of providing the comfort and understanding that Job needs. This chapter highlights the limitations of human wisdom and the importance of seeking guidance from God.

Context for the Chapter

This chapter is part of the larger narrative of the book of Job, which explores the themes of suffering, sin, and redemption. The book of Job is a wisdom literature book that raises important questions about the nature of God, humanity, and the universe. In the larger biblical narrative, the book of Job is often seen as a precursor to the Christian gospel, highlighting the universal need for humanity to be redeemed from its sinful state. This chapter, in particular, sets the stage for the subsequent speeches of Job's friends, which will ultimately lead to God's intervention and the revelation of His character and wisdom.

Heart Application

This chapter reminds us of the importance of approaching others with empathy and compassion, rather than judgment and condemnation. It also underscores the limitations of human wisdom and the importance of seeking guidance from God. As we reflect on this chapter, we are encouraged to seek God's wisdom and guidance in our own lives, and to approach others with the love and compassion of Christ.

What Does This Chapter Mean?

This chapter is about Eliphaz's second response to Job, where he tries to provide wisdom and insight into Job's situation. However, his words ultimately fall short of providing true understanding and comfort. The chapter highlights the limitations of human wisdom and the importance of seeking guidance from God. As seen in Job 15:14, humanity is sinful and in need of redemption, which is a fundamental aspect of the Christian gospel.

Voices from the Church

“The wisdom of the wise is foolishness with God. It is not the wisdom of the learned, nor the speculations of the philosophers, that can bring us to the knowledge of God, but the simplicity of faith, and the humility of a contrite heart.”

— Charles Spurgeon

“The greatest wisdom is to know that we are not wise, and that true wisdom comes from above. It is a great folly to pretend to be wise, and to trust in our own understanding, when we are but fools in the sight of God.”

— John Calvin

Outline for Preaching

1. Introduction to Eliphaz's Second Speech (Job 15:1-6) — Eliphaz condemns Job's words as empty and devoid of wisdom, and argues that Job's suffering is a result of his own sin.
2. Eliphaz's Argument for Job's Suffering (Job 15:7-16) — Eliphaz shares his own experiences and observations, claiming that the wicked will ultimately be punished and that the righteous will prosper.
3. The Description of the Wicked (Job 15:17-35) — Eliphaz describes the wicked as those who are corrupt and deceitful, and argues that they will ultimately be punished for their sins.
4. Conclusion to Eliphaz's Second Speech (Job 15:36) — Eliphaz concludes his speech by arguing that Job's suffering is a result of his own sin, and that he should repent and turn to God.
5. Reflection and Application (Job 15:1-36) — This chapter reminds us of the importance of seeking God's wisdom and guidance in our lives, and approaching others with empathy and compassion.

Core Doctrines

Total Depravity

This chapter highlights the total depravity of humanity, as seen in Job 15:14, where it is stated that humanity is inherently sinful and incapable of achieving righteousness through its own efforts.

Redemption

The concept of redemption is implicit in this chapter, as Eliphaz's words highlight the need for humanity to be redeemed from its sinful state.

The Sovereignty of God

This chapter underscores the sovereignty of God, as seen in Job 15:25, where it is stated that God will not withdrawn His anger until He has executed and accomplished the intents of His anger.

The Importance of Faith

This chapter reminds us of the importance of faith in our lives, as seen in Job 15:22, where it is stated that the wicked will go to the realm of the dead, and will not find any comfort or solace in their suffering.

Lessons from Job 15

1. The Importance of Empathy and Compassion — This chapter reminds us of the importance of approaching others with empathy and compassion, rather than judgment and condemnation.
2. The Limitations of Human Wisdom — This chapter underscores the limitations of human wisdom and the importance of seeking guidance from God.
3. The Universality of Sin — This chapter highlights the universality of sin and the need for humanity to be redeemed from its sinful state.
4. The Sovereignty of God — This chapter reminds us of the sovereignty of God and the importance of trusting in His wisdom and guidance.
5. The Importance of Faith — This chapter reminds us of the importance of faith in our lives, particularly in the midst of suffering and uncertainty.

Themes from Job 15

1. The Theme of Sin and Redemption — This chapter highlights the theme of sin and redemption, as seen in Job 15:14, where it is stated that humanity is inherently sinful and incapable of achieving righteousness through its own efforts.
2. The Theme of Human Wisdom and Limitations — This chapter underscores the theme of human wisdom and limitations, as seen in Job 15:2-3, where Eliphaz condemns Job's words as empty and devoid of wisdom.
3. The Theme of Suffering and Comfort — This chapter explores the theme of suffering and comfort, as seen in Job 15:11, where Eliphaz argues that the wicked will ultimately be punished and that the righteous will prosper.
4. The Theme of God's Sovereignty and Wisdom — This chapter reminds us of the theme of God's sovereignty and wisdom, as seen in Job 15:25, where it is stated that God will not withdrawn His anger until He has executed and accomplished the intents of His anger.
5. The Theme of Faith and Trust — This chapter reminds us of the importance of faith and trust in our lives, particularly in the midst of suffering and uncertainty.

Questions for Meditation

1. What are some ways in which Eliphaz's words fall short of providing true understanding and comfort to Job?
2. How does this chapter highlight the limitations of human wisdom and the importance of seeking guidance from God?
3. What are some ways in which we can apply the lessons of this chapter to our own lives, particularly in terms of approaching others with empathy and compassion?
4. How does the concept of sin and redemption relate to the Christian gospel, and what are some ways in which we can share this message with others?
5. What are some ways in which we can cultivate a deeper understanding of God's sovereignty and wisdom in our lives, particularly in the midst of suffering and uncertainty?

Detailed Chapter Outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Cross References

Sermons on Job 15

	Sermon	Description
	The Holiness of God - Part 1 by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the holiness of God and the need for reverence and sanctification in His presence. He refers to the story of Moses encountering God at the b
	The Threefold Sin of Society by Harold Vaughan	In this sermon, the speaker addresses the decline of integrity and morality in society, specifically in the United States. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's cultu
	The Comforts of God Job 15:11 by William MacDonald	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of transformation and the comfort that God provides during times of sorrow. The sermon begins by referencing the transformation of
	Ministry From Job by William MacDonald	In this sermon, the preacher shares the story of a missionary family in Peru who faced a tragic incident. Despite being attacked by bullets, miraculously, none of them hit the miss
	Distress of Job - Part 2 by W.F. Anderson	The video is a sermon on the book of Job in the Bible. It begins by describing the structure of the book, with a prologue and three cycles of speeches between Job and his friends.
	The Mischief of Sin by Thomas Watson	Thomas Watson preaches about the mischief of sin, highlighting God's mercy in saving Christians from persisting in sin and the consequences of unrepentant sinners storing up wrath
	Inbred Sin by Samuel Alexander Danford	Samuel Alexander Danford preaches about the sinful nature of man inherited from Adam, emphasizing the impossibility of producing purity from impurity and the continuous evil in man
	Thou Restrainest Prayer Before God. by F.B. Meyer	F.B. Meyer emphasizes the critical importance of prayer in the life of a believer, highlighting how Job's friends mistakenly assumed his suffering was due to secret sin, while many
	To Fill Heaven With Hells by Thomas Brooks	Thomas Brooks emphasizes the grave condition of wicked men who willingly indulge in sin, illustrating how their hearts are hardened and their consciences seared. He warns that such
	Attributes of God #9 "The Holiness of God" by A.W. Tozer	A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound holiness of God, illustrating that His purity and moral excellence are beyond human comprehension. He reflects on the fallen nature of humanity,

Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Job 15

In this chapter, we see Eliphaz's second speech, where he attempts to provide wisdom and insight into Job's situation. However, his words ultimately fall short of providing true understanding and comfort. Eliphaz's speech is characterized by his attempt to impart wisdom, but his words are empty and devoid of true understanding. The chapter highlights the limitations of human wisdom and the importance of seeking guidance from God. As Matthew Henry writes, 'The greatest wisdom is to know that we are not wise, and that true wisdom comes from above.' This chapter reminds us of the importance of approaching others with empathy and compassion, and of seeking guidance from God in all aspects of our lives. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →

What Do You Notice?