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  NOTHING MORE TO SAY
  by Theodore Epp
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Summary: Job's suffering was a result of his contempt for God, but
ultimately led him to realize God's care and sovereignty.

Topics: "God's Sovereignty", "Suffering"
Scripture References: Job 40:1

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DESCRIPTION
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Theodore Epp discusses Job's confrontation with God, emphasizing how
Job's arguments against God's justice stemmed from his misunderstanding
of divine sovereignty and care. After God reveals His majesty through
nature, Job recognizes his own vileness and chooses silence, realizing
that he cannot question God's righteousness. Epp encourages believers to
trust in God's purpose during suffering, understanding that it can be a
form of discipline rather than punishment, ultimately shaping them into
Christ's image. The sermon highlights the importance of listening to God
and acknowledging His love amidst trials.

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CONTENT
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Job 40:1-5

Job had contended with God. He had argued against God's dealing with
him, which was the root of his problem. He, the creature, had sat in
judgment against God, the Creator. He had even accused God of doing the
wrong thing.

Now God had spoken to Job and made His presence known. From nature He
had emphasized very obvious lessons so that Job could not fail to catch
the moral principles involved. No wonder Job replied that he was vile.

How could Job really answer God after this revelation of God's care for
His creatures? Job realized how contemptible he had been in speaking as
he did of the Lord. He had thought the Lord cruel and unjust; in reality
God had shown His love to Job. Job decided all he could do was put his
hand on his mouth, say nothing more and just listen to God.

How do we face times of suffering? Do we wonder after a long period of
testing if God really cares? We seek for love and care, and God in His
grace is ready and willing to love us and care for us; but above all we
must remember that God has permitted this testing and has a purpose in
it. God is both sovereign and righteous; therefore, He always does what
is right.

When a believer does wrong, he may suffer for the wrong done. On the
other hand, much suffering in the life of a believer is for discipline,
not punishment. Through such suffering God molds him into the image of
His Son (see Rom. 8:28,29).

"Now we know that what things so ever the law saith, it saith to them
who are under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the
world may become guilty before God" (Rom. 3:19).

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/theodore-epp/nothing-more-to-say/
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