Job 28
BSB1 “Surely there is a mine for silver and a place where gold is refined. 2 Iron is taken from the earth, and copper is smelted from ore. 3 Man puts an end to the darkness; he probes the farthest recesses for ore in deepest darkness. 4 Far from human habitation he cuts a shaft in places forgotten by the foot of man. Far from men he dangles and sways. 5 Food may come from the earth, but from below it is transformed as by fire. 6 Its rocks are the source of sapphires, containing flecks of gold. 7 No bird of prey knows that path; no falcon’s eye has seen it. 8 Proud beasts have never trodden it; no lion has ever prowled over it. 9 The miner strikes the flint; he overturns mountains at their base. 10 He hews out channels in the rocks, and his eyes spot every treasure. 11 He stops up the sources of the streams to bring what is hidden to light. 12 But where can wisdom be found, and where does understanding dwell? 13 No man can know its value, nor is it found in the land of the living. 14 The ocean depths say, ‘It is not in me,’ while the sea declares, ‘It is not with me.’ 15 It cannot be bought with gold, nor can its price be weighed out in silver. 16 It cannot be valued in the gold of Ophir, in precious onyx or sapphire. 17 Neither gold nor crystal can compare to it, nor jewels of fine gold be exchanged for it. 18 Coral and quartz are unworthy of mention; the price of wisdom is beyond rubies. 19 Topaz from Cush cannot compare to it, nor can it be valued in pure gold. 20 From where then does wisdom come, and where does understanding dwell? 21 It is hidden from the eyes of every living thing and concealed from the birds of the air. 22 Abaddon and Death say, ‘We have heard a rumor about it.’ 23 But God understands its way, and He knows its place. 24 For He looks to the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens. 25 When God fixed the weight of the wind and measured out the waters, 26 when He set a limit for the rain and a path for the thunderbolt, 27 then He looked at wisdom and appraised it; He established it and searched it out. 28 And He said to man, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom, and to turn away from evil is understanding.’"
Study Notes — Job 28
- 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 28
- Themes from Job 28
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Job 28
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
Job 28 begins by describing the efforts of humans to mine for precious metals and gems, highlighting their ingenuity and perseverance. However, Job notes that despite their ability to uncover hidden treasures, humans are unable to find wisdom. He describes wisdom as something that is beyond human reach, hidden from the eyes of all living creatures. Job then contrasts human ignorance with God's wisdom, stating that God understands the way to wisdom and that it is His alone to give. The chapter concludes with Job affirming that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that to depart from evil is understanding. Key verses include Job 28:1-11, which describe human ingenuity, and Job 28:12-28, which discuss the nature of wisdom and its relationship to God.
Context for the Chapter
Job 28 is part of the larger discussion between Job and his friends, who are attempting to understand the reason for Job's suffering. This chapter provides a philosophical and poetic interlude, in which Job explores the nature of wisdom and knowledge. The chapter's themes of wisdom, knowledge, and the fear of the Lord are central to the book of Job and have significant implications for the broader biblical narrative. In the context of the entire Bible, Job 28 contributes to the discussion on the nature of wisdom, which is also explored in Proverbs, Psalms, and other wisdom literature.
Heart Application
The principles outlined in Job 28 have significant implications for the Christian life. Believers are called to prioritize the fear of the Lord and to seek wisdom from God, recognizing the limitations of human knowledge. By embracing a lifestyle of wisdom and obedience, believers can deepen their relationship with God and live a more virtuous life. This involves applying the wisdom of God to everyday decisions and circumstances, and trusting in His sovereignty and goodness.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
Job 28 is a chapter that talks about wisdom and how it is more valuable than anything else. It says that humans can't find wisdom on their own, but God knows where it is and can give it to us. The chapter also says that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that we should try to understand and obey God. This is seen in Job 28:28, where Job notes that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and in Job 28:1-11, where humans are shown to be unable to find wisdom on their own.
Voices from the Church
“Wisdom is the right use of knowledge, and the fear of the Lord is the beginning of it. To know God is to know wisdom, and to know wisdom is to know God.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The fear of the Lord is the foundation of all true wisdom, and it is the duty of every believer to cultivate this fear in their heart.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- The Limitations of Human Knowledge (Job 28:1-11) — Job describes the ingenuity and perseverance of humans in uncovering hidden treasures, but notes their inability to find wisdom.
- The Value of Wisdom (Job 28:12-19) — Job affirms that wisdom is more valuable than precious metals and gems, emphasizing its importance in the Christian life.
- The Relationship Between Wisdom and God (Job 28:20-27) — Job notes that God understands the way to wisdom and that it is His alone to give, highlighting the importance of seeking wisdom from God.
- The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom (Job 28:28) — Job affirms that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that to depart from evil is understanding.
- Conclusion (Job 28:28) — Job concludes by emphasizing the importance of fearing God and seeking wisdom from Him, rather than relying on human knowledge alone.
Core Doctrines
- The Sovereignty of God
- Job 28 emphasizes God's sovereignty over all things, including wisdom and knowledge. This doctrine is central to the Christian faith and has significant implications for understanding God's character and role in the world.
- The Limitations of Human Knowledge
- The chapter highlights the limitations of human knowledge and the need to seek wisdom from God, emphasizing the importance of humility and dependence on Him.
- The Importance of Wisdom
- Job 28 affirms the value of wisdom and its importance in the Christian life, noting that it is more valuable than precious metals and gems.
- The Fear of the Lord
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of fearing God as the foundation of wisdom, highlighting the need for believers to cultivate a deep reverence and awe for Him.
Lessons from Job 28
- The Importance of Humility — Job 28 teaches the importance of humility in recognizing the limitations of human knowledge and the need to seek wisdom from God.
- The Value of Wisdom — The chapter affirms the value of wisdom and its importance in the Christian life, highlighting the need to prioritize it above other things.
- The Role of the Fear of the Lord — Job 28 emphasizes the importance of fearing God as the foundation of wisdom, noting that it is the beginning of wisdom and understanding.
- The Need for Dependence on God — The chapter teaches the need for believers to depend on God for wisdom, rather than relying on human knowledge alone.
- The Application of Wisdom — Job 28 provides practical lessons for applying wisdom in everyday life, emphasizing the importance of obedience to God and a deep reverence for Him.
Themes from Job 28
- Wisdom and Knowledge — The chapter explores the nature of wisdom and knowledge, highlighting their importance in the Christian life and the need to seek them from God.
- The Fear of the Lord — Job 28 emphasizes the importance of fearing God as the foundation of wisdom, noting that it is the beginning of wisdom and understanding.
- The Limitations of Human Knowledge — The chapter highlights the limitations of human knowledge and the need to seek wisdom from God, emphasizing the importance of humility and dependence on Him.
- The Sovereignty of God — Job 28 affirms God's sovereignty over all things, including wisdom and knowledge, highlighting His role in the world and the need to trust in Him.
- The Importance of Obedience — The chapter teaches the importance of obedience to God as a key aspect of wisdom, noting that it is essential for deepening one's relationship with Him.
Questions for Meditation
- What are some ways that humans try to acquire wisdom and knowledge, and how do these efforts ultimately fall short?
- How does the fear of the Lord relate to wisdom, and what are some practical ways to cultivate this fear in your life?
- What are some areas in your life where you are relying on human knowledge rather than seeking wisdom from God, and how can you begin to seek His wisdom in these areas?
- How does the value of wisdom compare to other things that you consider valuable, and what are some ways to prioritize wisdom in your life?
- What are some ways that you can apply the principles of Job 28 to your daily life, and how can you use this chapter to deepen your relationship with God?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. The Limitations of Human Knowledge (Job 28:1-11)
| 28:1 | Job describes the efforts of humans to mine for precious metals and gems, highlighting their ingenuity and perseverance. |
| 28:2 | He notes that humans are able to uncover hidden treasures, but are unable to find wisdom. |
| 28:3 | Job emphasizes the darkness and depths of human knowledge, highlighting its limitations. |
| 28:4 | He describes the dangers and difficulties of human endeavors, noting the risks and challenges involved. |
| 28:5 | Job notes that humans are able to bring forth bread from the earth, but are unable to find wisdom. |
| 28:6 | He describes the sapphires and gold that can be found in the earth, but notes that wisdom is more valuable. |
| 28:7 | Job notes that the path to wisdom is unknown to humans, and that they are unable to find it. |
| 28:8 | He describes the pride and arrogance of humans, noting their inability to recognize their limitations. |
| 28:9 | Job emphasizes the importance of humility in recognizing the limitations of human knowledge. |
| 28:10 | He notes that humans are able to do many things, but are unable to find wisdom. |
| 28:11 | Job concludes by emphasizing the limitations of human knowledge and the need to seek wisdom from God. |
2. The Value of Wisdom (Job 28:12-19)
| 28:12 | Job asks where wisdom can be found, and notes that it is not to be found among humans. |
| 28:13 | He emphasizes the value of wisdom, noting that it is more valuable than precious metals and gems. |
| 28:14 | Job notes that the deep says, 'It is not in me,' and that the sea says, 'It is not with me.' |
| 28:15 | He describes the gold and crystal that can be found in the earth, but notes that wisdom is more valuable. |
| 28:16 | Job notes that wisdom cannot be purchased with gold or precious stones. |
| 28:17 | He emphasizes the value of wisdom, noting that it is more valuable than gold and precious stones. |
| 28:18 | Job notes that the price of wisdom is above rubies. |
| 28:19 | He concludes by emphasizing the value of wisdom and its importance in the Christian life. |
3. The Relationship Between Wisdom and God (Job 28:20-27)
| 28:20 | Job notes that wisdom comes from afar, and that it is not to be found among humans. |
| 28:21 | He emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom from God, noting that it is His alone to give. |
| 28:22 | Job notes that destruction and death say, 'We have heard a rumor of it.' |
| 28:23 | He describes God's understanding of the way to wisdom, and notes that it is His alone to give. |
| 28:24 | Job notes that God looks to the ends of the earth and sees everything under the heavens. |
| 28:25 | He describes God's wisdom and power, noting that He is the one who weighs the winds and waters. |
| 28:26 | Job notes that God made a decree for the rain, and that He is the one who brings forth the mist from the ends of the earth. |
| 28:27 | He concludes by emphasizing God's wisdom and power, noting that He is the one who understands the way to wisdom. |
4. The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Wisdom (Job 28:28)
| 28:28 | Job affirms that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that to depart from evil is understanding. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theme of Job 28?
The main theme of Job 28 is the nature of wisdom and knowledge, and how they relate to God and humanity. As seen in Job 28:1-11, humans are unable to find wisdom on their own, and must seek it from God.
How does Job describe the limitations of human knowledge?
Job describes the limitations of human knowledge by noting that humans are unable to find wisdom, despite their ingenuity and perseverance. This is seen in Job 28:1-11, where Job highlights the darkness and depths of human knowledge.
What is the value of wisdom according to Job?
According to Job, wisdom is more valuable than precious metals and gems. As seen in Job 28:12-19, Job emphasizes the value of wisdom and its importance in the Christian life.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Job 28:1 → Proverbs 2:6 | Both passages describe the importance of seeking wisdom from God, rather than relying on human knowledge alone. |
| 2 | Job 28:12 → Psalm 111:10 | Both passages affirm that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that it is essential for deepening one's relationship with God. |
| 3 | Job 28:20 → Isaiah 40:28 | Both passages describe God's wisdom and power, noting that He is the one who understands the way to wisdom. |
| 4 | Job 28:23 → Romans 11:33 | Both passages describe God's wisdom and knowledge, noting that they are beyond human understanding. |
| 5 | Job 28:25 → Psalm 104:24 | Both passages describe God's wisdom and power, noting that He is the one who created the world and all that is in it. |
| 6 | Job 28:26 → Jeremiah 10:13 | Both passages describe God's wisdom and power, noting that He is the one who controls the weather and the natural world. |
| 7 | Job 28:27 → 1 Corinthians 1:20 | Both passages describe God's wisdom and knowledge, noting that they are beyond human understanding and that He is the one who understands the way to wisdom. |
| 8 | Job 28:28 → Proverbs 9:10 | Both passages affirm that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that it is essential for deepening one's relationship with God. |
| 9 | Job 28:1-11 → Ecclesiastes 1:16-18 | Both passages describe the limitations of human knowledge and the importance of seeking wisdom from God. |
| 10 | Job 28:12-19 → Proverbs 3:13-18 | Both passages describe the value of wisdom and its importance in the Christian life, noting that it is more valuable than precious metals and gems. |
Sermons on Job 28
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Internship Program Study Part 2 (Wayne Grudem's Systematic Theology p.15 - 25) by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural and historical context in which we live, especially for those who have a hunger to know and prea |
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(Guidelines) Revelation by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing that the words of Scripture are inspired by God. He shares a story about a girl who received praise for her sin |
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Recovery of the Lords Name - Part 4 of 6 by T. Austin-Sparks | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Gideon from the book of Judges and relates it to the letter to the Philippians. The preacher emphasizes that God calls specific |
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God's Way and How to Find It by C.H. Mackintosh | C.H. Mackintosh preaches about the unspeakable mercy of God in providing a clear pathway for His redeemed ones to walk in with certainty and calmness. It is the privilege of every |
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The Happiness of Drawing Near to God by Thomas Watson | Thomas Watson preaches on the importance and benefits of drawing near to God, emphasizing that it is good for believers to seek closeness with Him. He delves into the nature of our |
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An Humble Inquiry Into, and Prospect Of, the Infinite Wisdom of God, in the Constitution of the Person of Christ by John Owen | John Owen explores the infinite wisdom of God in the incarnation of Christ, emphasizing that this divine mystery is essential for the redemption of humanity. He highlights that God |
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Religion the Highest Wisdom, and Sin the Greatest Madness and Folly by Samuel Davies | Samuel Davies preaches about the importance of true wisdom, highlighting the fear of the LORD as the beginning of wisdom and the necessity of following His commandments for good un |
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Get Understanding by Anton Bosch | Anton Bosch emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom and understanding above material possessions, highlighting how often we prioritize acquiring things over gaining true unders |
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Proverbs 9:10 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith emphasizes that the fear of the Lord is the foundational starting point for wisdom, urging believers to recognize the importance of reverential awe towards God. He disc |
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Proverbs 1:7 by Chuck Smith | Chuck Smith emphasizes that the fear of the Lord is foundational to all true knowledge and wisdom, explaining that this fear is rooted in reverence, awe, and a proper understanding |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Job 28
Matthew Henry's commentary on Job 28 emphasizes the importance of seeking wisdom from God, rather than relying on human knowledge alone. He notes that true wisdom is a gift from God, and that it is essential for deepening one's relationship with Him. Henry also emphasizes the value of wisdom, noting that it is more valuable than precious metals and gems. He concludes by affirming that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that it is essential for gaining true understanding and knowledge. As seen in Job 28:1-11, humans are unable to find wisdom on their own, and must seek it from God. This is a key principle in the Christian life, and one that is essential for living a life that honors God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Limitations of Human Knowledge
Job 28:1-11 highlights the ingenuity and perseverance of humans in uncovering hidden treasures, but also notes their inability to find wisdom. This contrast emphasizes the limitations of human knowledge and the need to seek wisdom from God.
The Value of Wisdom
Job affirms that wisdom is more valuable than precious metals and gems (Job 28:12-19), emphasizing its importance in the Christian life. This value is rooted in wisdom's ability to lead to a deeper relationship with God and a more virtuous life.
The Relationship Between Wisdom and Obedience
Job 28:28 notes that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and that to depart from evil is understanding. This relationship highlights the importance of obedience to God in gaining true wisdom and understanding.