Job 22
BSB1 Then Eliphaz the Temanite replied: 2 “Can a man be of use to God? Can even a wise man benefit Him? 3 Does it delight the Almighty that you are righteous? Does He profit if your ways are blameless? 4 Is it for your reverence that He rebukes you and enters into judgment against you? 5 Is not your wickedness great? Are not your iniquities endless? 6 For you needlessly demanded security from your brothers and deprived the naked of their clothing. 7 You gave no water to the weary and withheld food from the famished, 8 while the land belonged to a mighty man, and a man of honor lived on it. 9 You sent widows away empty-handed, and the strength of the fatherless was crushed. 10 Therefore snares surround you, and sudden peril terrifies you; 11 it is so dark you cannot see, and a flood of water covers you. 12 Is not God as high as the heavens? Look at the highest stars, how lofty they are! 13 Yet you say: ‘What does God know? Does He judge through thick darkness? 14 Thick clouds veil Him so He does not see us as He traverses the vault of heaven. ‘ 15 Will you stay on the ancient path that wicked men have trod? 16 They were snatched away before their time, and their foundations were swept away by a flood. 17 They said to God, ‘Depart from us. What can the Almighty do to us?’ 18 But it was He who filled their houses with good things; so I stay far from the counsel of the wicked. 19 The righteous see it and are glad; the innocent mock them: 20 ‘Surely our foes are destroyed, and fire has consumed their excess.’ 21 Reconcile now and be at peace with Him; thereby good will come to you. 22 Receive instruction from His mouth, and lay up His words in your heart. 23 If you return to the Almighty, you will be restored. If you remove injustice from your tents 24 and consign your gold to the dust and the gold of Ophir to the stones of the ravines, 25 then the Almighty will be your gold and the finest silver for you. 26 Surely then you will delight in the Almighty and lift up your face to God. 27 You will pray to Him, and He will hear you, and you will fulfill your vows. 28 Your decisions will be carried out, and light will shine on your ways. 29 When men are brought low and you say, ‘Lift them up!’ then He will save the lowly. 30 He will deliver even one who is not innocent, rescuing him through the cleanness of your hands."
Study Notes — Job 22
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Job 22
- Themes from Job 22
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Job 22
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
In Job 22, Eliphaz delivers his second speech, condemning Job's supposed sin and advising him to seek God's favor. Eliphaz tells Job that if he is pure and upright, God will bless him and restore his fortunes (Job 22:23-30). However, Job's friends do not understand the true nature of his suffering, and their counsel is misguided. The chapter highlights the theme of the book, which is the question of why the righteous suffer. Eliphaz's speech is a representation of the common human tendency to blame the victim and assume that suffering is always a result of sin. Key verses in this chapter include Job 22:2-3, where Eliphaz accuses Job of sinning, and Job 22:21-22, where Eliphaz advises Job to seek God's favor.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the book of Job, which is a wisdom literature book in the Old Testament. The book of Job is a theological treatise on the question of why the righteous suffer, and it explores the nature of God, the character of humanity, and the problem of evil. The chapter is situated in the midst of a series of speeches by Job's friends, who are trying to advise him on how to respond to his suffering. The book of Job is a precursor to the gospel message, which is that Christ's suffering on the cross was not a result of his sin, but rather a demonstration of God's love for humanity.
Heart Application
The chapter reminds us that our understanding of God's ways is limited, and that we should not jump to conclusions about why someone is suffering. Instead, we should seek to comfort and support those who are suffering, and trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. We should also fear God and turn away from evil, seeking to live a life that is pleasing to him.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about Eliphaz's second speech to Job, where he accuses Job of sinning and tells him to seek God's favor. However, Eliphaz's advice is misguided, and the chapter highlights the theme of the book, which is the question of why the righteous suffer. In Job 22:21, Eliphaz advises Job to submit to God and be at peace with him, but this verse also highlights the misconception that prosperity is always a direct result of righteousness.
Voices from the Church
“The book of Job is a reminder that God's ways are not our ways, and that his thoughts are not our thoughts. We should trust in his sovereignty and goodness, even when we do not understand why he allows suffering.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and it is a necessary attitude for true understanding of God's ways. We should seek to fear God and turn away from evil, seeking to live a life that is pleasing to him.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Eliphaz's Introduction (Job 22:1-4) — Eliphaz introduces his second speech, condemning Job's supposed sin and advising him to seek God's favor.
- Eliphaz's Accusation (Job 22:5-9) — Eliphaz accuses Job of sinning, citing his supposed mistreatment of the poor and vulnerable.
- Eliphaz's Advice (Job 22:21-22) — Eliphaz advises Job to seek God's favor and turn away from sin, promising that prosperity will come to him if he does.
- Eliphaz's Conclusion (Job 22:23-30) — Eliphaz concludes his speech, reiterating his advice to Job and warning him of the consequences of not seeking God's favor.
- Theological Implications (Job 22:1-30) — The chapter has significant theological implications, challenging the common human tendency to blame the victim and assume that suffering is always a result of sin.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign and that his ways are not our ways. We should trust in his sovereignty and goodness, even when we do not understand why he allows suffering.
- The Fear of the Lord
- The fear of the Lord is a key concept in the book of Job, and it refers to a deep respect and reverence for God's power and majesty. We should seek to fear God and turn away from evil, seeking to live a life that is pleasing to him.
- The Problem of Evil
- The chapter highlights the problem of evil, which is a central question in the book of Job. The book challenges the common human tendency to blame the victim and assume that suffering is always a result of sin.
- The Gospel Message
- The chapter is a precursor to the gospel message, which is that Christ's suffering on the cross was not a result of his sin, but rather a demonstration of God's love for humanity.
Lessons from Job 22
- The Importance of Fearing God — The chapter reminds us that the fear of the Lord is a necessary attitude for true wisdom and understanding. We should seek to fear God and turn away from evil, seeking to live a life that is pleasing to him.
- The Danger of Misconceptions — The chapter highlights the danger of misconceptions about God's ways and the nature of suffering. We should be careful not to jump to conclusions about why someone is suffering, and instead seek to comfort and support them.
- The Significance of Trusting in God's Sovereignty — The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign and that his ways are not our ways. We should trust in his sovereignty and goodness, even when we do not understand why he allows suffering.
- The Importance of Seeking God's Favor — The chapter emphasizes the importance of seeking God's favor and turning away from sin. We should seek to live a life that is pleasing to God, and trust in his goodness and sovereignty.
- The Gospel Message — The chapter is a precursor to the gospel message, which is that Christ's suffering on the cross was not a result of his sin, but rather a demonstration of God's love for humanity.
Themes from Job 22
- The Theme of Suffering — The chapter highlights the theme of suffering, which is a central question in the book of Job. The book challenges the common human tendency to blame the victim and assume that suffering is always a result of sin.
- The Theme of the Fear of the Lord — The fear of the Lord is a key concept in the book of Job, and it refers to a deep respect and reverence for God's power and majesty. We should seek to fear God and turn away from evil, seeking to live a life that is pleasing to him.
- The Theme of God's Sovereignty — The chapter reminds us that God is sovereign and that his ways are not our ways. We should trust in his sovereignty and goodness, even when we do not understand why he allows suffering.
- The Theme of the Gospel Message — The chapter is a precursor to the gospel message, which is that Christ's suffering on the cross was not a result of his sin, but rather a demonstration of God's love for humanity.
- The Theme of Trusting in God's Goodness — The chapter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's goodness and sovereignty, even when we do not understand why he allows suffering. We should seek to live a life that is pleasing to God, and trust in his goodness and sovereignty.
Questions for Meditation
- What is Eliphaz's main argument in his second speech to Job?
- How does Eliphaz's speech reflect the common human tendency to blame the victim and assume that suffering is always a result of sin?
- What is the significance of the fear of the Lord in the book of Job?
- How does the chapter challenge the common human tendency to blame the victim and assume that suffering is always a result of sin?
- What is the theological significance of the chapter, and how does it relate to the gospel message?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Eliphaz's Introduction (Job 22:1-4)
| Job 22:1 | Eliphaz introduces his second speech, condemning Job's supposed sin and advising him to seek God's favor. |
| Job 22:2 | Eliphaz accuses Job of sinning, citing his supposed mistreatment of the poor and vulnerable. |
| Job 22:3 | Eliphaz tells Job that his supposed sin has caused his suffering, and that he needs to repent and turn to God. |
| Job 22:4 | Eliphaz concludes his introduction, emphasizing the importance of fearing God and turning away from evil. |
2. Eliphaz's Accusation (Job 22:5-9)
| Job 22:5 | Eliphaz accuses Job of sinning, citing his supposed mistreatment of the poor and vulnerable. |
| Job 22:6 | Eliphaz tells Job that he has taken pledges from his brothers, and that he has not given food to the hungry. |
| Job 22:7 | Eliphaz accuses Job of not giving water to the thirsty, and of not clothing the naked. |
| Job 22:8 | Eliphaz tells Job that he has not helped the fatherless, and that he has not aided the widow. |
| Job 22:9 | Eliphaz concludes his accusation, emphasizing the importance of fearing God and turning away from evil. |
3. Eliphaz's Advice (Job 22:21-22)
| Job 22:21 | Eliphaz advises Job to submit to God and be at peace with him, promising that prosperity will come to him if he does. |
| Job 22:22 | Eliphaz tells Job to receive instruction from God's mouth, and to lay up his words in his heart. |
4. Eliphaz's Conclusion (Job 22:23-30)
| Job 22:23 | Eliphaz concludes his speech, reiterating his advice to Job and warning him of the consequences of not seeking God's favor. |
| Job 22:24 | Eliphaz tells Job that if he returns to the Almighty, he will be blessed and his prosperity will return. |
| Job 22:25 | Eliphaz advises Job to cast away the filth of his hands, and to put away the wickedness that is in his tents. |
| Job 22:26 | Eliphaz tells Job that then he will lift up his face to God, and he will see his face with joy. |
| Job 22:27 | Eliphaz promises Job that he will make his prayer to him, and he will hear him, and he will fulfill his vows. |
| Job 22:28 | Eliphaz tells Job that he will also decide on a matter, and it will be established for him, and light will shine on his ways. |
| Job 22:29 | Eliphaz advises Job to humble himself, and he will save the lowly, and he will bring down the haughty. |
| Job 22:30 | Eliphaz concludes his speech, emphasizing the importance of fearing God and turning away from evil. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main argument of Eliphaz's second speech to Job?
Eliphaz argues that Job's suffering is a result of his sin, and that he needs to repent and turn to God in order to experience prosperity. However, this argument is misguided, and the chapter highlights the theme of the book, which is the question of why the righteous suffer. (Job 22:2-3, Job 22:21-22)
What is the significance of the fear of the Lord in the book of Job?
The fear of the Lord is a key concept in the book of Job, and it refers to a deep respect and reverence for God's power and majesty. We should seek to fear God and turn away from evil, seeking to live a life that is pleasing to him. (Job 22:21, Job 28:28)
How does the chapter challenge the common human tendency to blame the victim and assume that suffering is always a result of sin?
The chapter challenges this tendency by highlighting the theme of suffering, which is a central question in the book of Job. The book reminds us that our understanding of God's ways is limited, and that we should not jump to conclusions about why someone is suffering. Instead, we should seek to comfort and support those who are suffering, and trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. (Job 22:1-30)
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Job 22:1 → Psalm 119:120 | The fear of the Lord is a key concept in both Job 22:1 and Psalm 119:120, where it is described as a necessary attitude for true wisdom and understanding. |
| 2 | Job 22:2 → Proverbs 10:2 | The concept of righteousness and sin is central to both Job 22:2 and Proverbs 10:2, where it is emphasized that righteousness leads to life, but sin leads to death. |
| 3 | Job 22:21 → Isaiah 55:7 | The idea of submitting to God and being at peace with him is a key concept in both Job 22:21 and Isaiah 55:7, where it is described as a necessary step towards experiencing God's favor and prosperity. |
| 4 | Job 22:22 → Matthew 5:6 | The concept of receiving instruction from God's mouth and laying up his words in one's heart is central to both Job 22:22 and Matthew 5:6, where it is emphasized that true righteousness comes from seeking God's will and living according to his word. |
| 5 | Job 22:23 → Romans 5:1 | The idea of being at peace with God is a key concept in both Job 22:23 and Romans 5:1, where it is described as a result of justification by faith. |
| 6 | Job 22:24 → 2 Corinthians 9:6 | The concept of casting away the filth of one's hands and putting away the wickedness that is in one's tents is central to both Job 22:24 and 2 Corinthians 9:6, where it is emphasized that true generosity and kindness come from a pure heart. |
| 7 | Job 22:25 → Psalm 37:3 | The idea of trusting in God and doing good is a key concept in both Job 22:25 and Psalm 37:3, where it is described as a necessary step towards experiencing God's favor and prosperity. |
| 8 | Job 22:26 → Hebrews 12:2 | The concept of lifting up one's face to God and seeing his face with joy is central to both Job 22:26 and Hebrews 12:2, where it is emphasized that true joy and peace come from fixing one's eyes on Jesus. |
| 9 | Job 22:27 → John 15:7 | The idea of making one's prayer to God and hearing from him is a key concept in both Job 22:27 and John 15:7, where it is emphasized that true prayer comes from a heart that is abiding in Christ. |
| 10 | Job 22:30 → James 4:10 | The concept of humbling oneself and being exalted by God is central to both Job 22:30 and James 4:10, where it is emphasized that true humility comes from a heart that is submissive to God's will. |
Sermons on Job 22
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Job: An Epic in Brokenness) 2. Where Job Went Wrong by Roy Hession | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of Job and explores where Job went wrong in his understanding of God's moral philosophy. The speaker explains that the ancient Orien |
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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. |
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The Beatitudes the Seventh Beatitude by A.W. Pink | A.W. Pink expounds on the seventh Beatitude, 'Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God,' emphasizing that true peacemaking goes beyond mere peaceke |
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The Way Which Wicked Men Have Trodden by Edward Payson | Edward Payson preaches about the importance of considering the old way that wicked men have trodden, leading to destruction, as highlighted in Job 22:15-17 and Matthew 7:13. He des |
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Prayerful Digestion of God's Word by A.W. Tozer | A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true faith is not achieved through forced belief or sheer willpower, but rather through a genuine acquaintance with God via the Scriptures. He highlights |
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Return From Backsliding by C.H. Spurgeon | C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the necessity of returning to God after experiencing the consequences of sin and backsliding. He highlights that sin can lead to spiritual ruin and that tr |
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On Becoming Acquainted With God by Charles Finney | Charles Finney emphasizes the necessity of becoming intimately acquainted with God, urging believers to move beyond mere knowledge to a deep, personal relationship with Him. He out |
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Our Sins Infinite in Number and Enormity. by Edward Payson | Edward Payson preaches about the infinite wickedness and iniquities of humanity, emphasizing that every individual, regardless of outward appearances, is guilty of numerous sins in |
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Our Daily Homily - Job Part 2 by F.B. Meyer | F.B. Meyer explores the profound themes of justice and divine knowledge in the Book of Job, emphasizing the connection between wrongdoing and its consequences. He highlights that w |
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Fatherly Chastisement by A.W. Tozer | Greek Word Studies for Assurance (5287) explores the concept of 'hupostasis' as a solid, unshakable confidence in God, representing the essence or substance that underlies our fait |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Job 22
In this chapter, Eliphaz delivers his second speech, condemning Job's supposed sin and advising him to seek God's favor. However, Eliphaz's speech is misguided, and it reflects the common human tendency to blame the victim and assume that suffering is always a result of sin. The chapter highlights the theme of suffering, which is a central question in the book of Job. The book reminds us that our understanding of God's ways is limited, and that we should not jump to conclusions about why someone is suffering. Instead, we should seek to comfort and support those who are suffering, and trust in God's sovereignty and goodness. As Matthew Henry notes, 'We must not think that God's ways are our ways, nor his thoughts our thoughts.' (Job 22:1-30) Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Eliphaz's Misconception
Eliphaz's speech reveals his misconception that suffering is always a result of sin, and that prosperity is always a direct result of righteousness. This misconception is challenged throughout the book of Job, and it is a reminder that our understanding of God's ways is limited.
The Theme of Suffering
The chapter highlights the theme of suffering, which is a central question in the book of Job. The book challenges the common human tendency to blame the victim and assume that suffering is always a result of sin.
The Importance of Fearing God
The chapter emphasizes the importance of fearing God, which is a key concept in the book of Job. The fear of the Lord is a deep respect and reverence for God's power and majesty, and it is a necessary attitude for true wisdom and understanding.