Job 1

Job 1 Commentary

by Brad Boyles

The entire book of Job explores tough themes and deep theological questions. Namely, it seeks to answer the ancient question we still hear so often today – “If God is so good, why does he allow suffering?”

The story of Job probably took place around the Patriarchal Period (roughly 2000 BC). This would place the events right around the time of Abraham. The name Job is found in Near Eastern texts and is identified as a wise and somewhat legendary man. Scholars are unsure if this book is speaking to a real person or is using a fictional character to describe a spiritual lesson. Whatever the case, it is consistent with the rest of Scripture which teaches us about our suffering in relationship to God.

In the opening scene, we get a glimpse of this “legendary man.” In many ways, he parallels Solomon with his wealth, family, status, wisdom, and character. Job is described in verse 3 as “the greatest of all the men of the east.” This is similar to how Solomon was described in 1 Kings 4:30 – “Solomon’s wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the sons of the east and all the wisdom of Egypt.”

Job would rise early in the morning to offer sacrifices to the Lord for his children. In today’s terms, this would be similar to parents who rise early in the morning to go into prayer for their children. He was a wise, faithful, and prosperous man. He loved the Lord and he loved his family. He was what people today would call a “good person.”

In verse 6, we get a fascinating conversation between God and Satan. Essentially, Satan’s “theology” is that the only reason Job loves God is because he’s been blessed with all this stuff. It’s an interesting thought, because there are many churches and pastors today who claim that if you are faithful to God he will give you a bunch of stuff. That was about to be challenged. In fact, God is the one who volunteers Job for the task!

The LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered My servant Job? For there is no one like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, fearing God and turning away from evil.”

Job 1:8 NASB

It is here that we get a glimpse of this constant theme which will be developed over several chapters. Can saving faith be destroyed in those who are truly God’s children? Is Job’s faith rooted in God Himself or in what God can give him? Satan certainly thinks he can thwart the faith of Job, and it was not the first time (leading angels to rebel with him in Revelation 12) and it would not be the last either (see Peter and the disciples being “sifted” in Luke 22).

How should we read this chapter? Does it lead us to question where mercy and compassion are found or does it lead us to just the opposite – that true mercy is found within suffering? These are all questions this book will explore and answer as we continue chapter by chapter.