Job - Part 1
Job's devotion to God is tested as he is asked to consider giving up his children, revealing the importance of submitting to God's will.
John Piper explores the profound trial of Job as he grapples with the heart-wrenching possibility of sacrificing his children for the sake of God's greater purpose. Job's deep love for his children is juxtaposed with his desire to obey God's will, leading him to a moment of intense emotional struggle. Piper emphasizes the tension between human attachment and divine wisdom, illustrating Job's willingness to submit to God's decree despite his anguish. The sermon highlights the depth of Job's faith and the ultimate call to trust in God's plan, even when it seems incomprehensible.
Full Transcript
That morning, early, Job had gone alone with sheep and knife at dawn to make his sacrifice. And while he prayed, God put his heart on trial. O man of God, today again you seek the precious lives of ten young souls.
Now tell me with your heart, would you be willing, Job, to part with all your children, if in my deep counsel I should judge that by such severing more good would be, and you would know far more of me? Job trembled at the voice and fell before the bleeding lamb. Compel me not, O God, to make this choice between the wisdom of your voice and these ten treasures of my life. Far better I should take this knife and mingle lamb's blood with my own than put my children on this stone.
O God, have mercy on my seed. I yield to what you have decreed.
Sermon Outline
- Job's Sacrifice and Prayer
- Job's devotion to God
- God's testing of Job's heart
Key Quotes
“Compel me not, O God, to make this choice between the wisdom of your voice and these ten treasures of my life.” — John Piper
“Far better I should take this knife and mingle lamb's blood with my own than put my children on this stone.” — John Piper
Application Points
- We must be willing to submit to God's will, even when it's difficult or painful.
- Our devotion to God should be unwavering, even in the face of difficult choices.
- We can trust in God's sovereignty and know that He is working all things for our good.