Job Chapter 4: Eliphaz's Rebuke
A study of Eliphaz's initial response to Job's suffering, focusing on his accusations and arguments.
1. Eliphaz's Initial Accusation
1.1 Remembering Job's Past Ministry
Verses: Job 4:3-4
- Eliphaz begins by acknowledging Job's past ministry to others.
- He reminds Job that he has strengthened the weak and upheld those who were falling.
1.2 The Sting of Hypocrisy?
Verses: Job 4:5-6
- Eliphaz questions how Job can now be overwhelmed by his own suffering.
- He suggests that Job's righteousness should be his confidence and hope.
2. Eliphaz's Argument from Revelation
2.1 The Doctrine of Retribution
Verses: Job 4:7-9
- Eliphaz asserts that the innocent do not perish, and the upright are not destroyed.
- He implies that Job's suffering is a result of some hidden sin.
2.2 A Disturbing Vision
Verses: Job 4:12-16
- Eliphaz describes how he received a secret revelation in the night.
- This revelation emphasizes the limitations and frailty of humanity before the Almighty.
2.3 The Frailty of Man
Verses: Job 4:17-19
- The spirit asks if mortal man can be more just than God.
- It emphasizes that even angels are not perfect in God's sight.
3. Eliphaz's Judgment
3.1 The Consequences of Folly
Verses: Job 4:20-21
- Eliphaz concludes that humans are easily crushed and perish without wisdom.
- He suggests that Job's troubles may be due to a lack of understanding.