Book of Job – Bible Study 24
Just for your thoughts
Book of Job – Bible Study 24
The three friends who heard about Job’s sudden losses and his physical suffering came to comfort him. But those who came to comfort him ended up engaging in multiple rounds of debate with Job.
Eliphaz, who spoke first, did not initially accuse Job very harshly. He first acknowledges that Job is a good man. However, he indirectly suggests that “if God is punishing, there must be some sin behind it.”
He also advises, “God is disciplining you; therefore accept it” (Job 5:17).
When he speaks a second time, he accuses Job even more severely than before. He claims that Job has considered his devotion useless and has stopped praying, and that no human can ever be righteous before God, concluding that Job must be guilty (Job 15:4, 14).
All these are general accusations.
But in chapter 22, he brings many baseless personal accusations against Job.
The other two friends, Bildad and Zophar, did not make such personal accusations against Job.
Eliphaz imagines and claims sins that Job never committed (Job 22:6–9):
He took unjust pledges from his brothers.
He stripped the clothing of the naked person.
He did not give water to the thirsty.
He did not give food to the hungry.
He sent widows away empty-handed.
He oppressed the fatherless.
Finally, he makes an unfounded accusation: “Your iniquity is great” (Job 22:5).
Without understanding Job’s suffering and losses, and instead of comforting him, this attitude of personal accusation is extremely cruel.
These are not friends who comfort; they are those who wound the hearts of friends. In the name of comfort, they pour out accusations and condemnations on the wounded without sensing their pain.
Even today, in our spiritual world, spiritual counterfeits like Eliphaz are still around.
They become stumbling blocks to faithful believers who are going through suffering. Instead of strengthening the spiritual life of believers in trials, they become obstacles that weaken and shake it.
They are of no benefit to the church or to believers.
They are not assets to anyone.
They are liabilities to everyone.
They are not useful to anyone; rather, they are seen only as a burden.
Therefore, believers must be cautious about those who come to comfort them. Many times, instead of strengthening our faith, they may end up becoming those who question our integrity.
Believers, be watchful of those who are like Eliphaz!