Through The Bible - English - 18 (Job-2) by Zac Poonen
Summary
The speaker uses the Book of Job as an illustration, noting that it deals with the individual rather than a nation. He emphasizes that criticism from fellow believers can be more painful and damaging than opposition from unbelievers. The sermon warns against speaking truth without proper motive, stressing that God judges the spirit behind our words, not just their outward correctness.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
What did God say about Job's preachers?God expressed anger toward Eliphaz and his two friends in chapter 42, declaring that what they said about Him was not right.Job 42:7
Eliphaz: The preacher of visions and supernatural experiencesEliphaz represents preachers who try to bring authority to their words by citing secret visions and supernatural encounters rather than the written word of God.
Bildad: The defender of traditionBildad represents a gentler type of accuser who relies heavily on the traditions of the fathers and refuses to rock the boat or change church practices.
Zophar: The self-appointed angry criticZophar represents self-appointed sensors and fiery critics who attack others harshly without any divine anointing or blessing on their lives.
Elihu: The knowledgeable teacher without deep sufferingElihu teaches correct concepts but lacks the personal experience of deep waters, showing how ministers with knowledge alone can remain shallow.
How Job answered the repeated accusationsThroughout the lengthy discussions, Job's friends persistently claimed that his suffering was the direct result of sin, which Job firmly rejected.
Job's wisdom on the prosperity of the wickedJob refutes the simplistic theology of his friends by pointing out that wicked people often live to a good old age, grow wealthy, and enjoy their families in peace.
Job's hidden spiritual prideDespite being an exceptionally godly and helpful man, Job held onto pride in his own righteousness, which necessitated God taking him through trial to humble him.
How God convicts Job through creationInstead of arguing about sin, God reveals His magnificent sovereignty and power in creation and creatures like the crocodile, reducing Job to complete humility.
Being reduced to zeroGod's ultimate purpose is to bring His servants down to zero so that He gets all the glory, mirroring the attitude seen in the Apostle Paul's life.
Job's repentance and final confession of faithJob repents in dust and ashes, confessing that he now sees God with his own eyes, and later experiences double restoration after praying for his friends.Job 42:5–6
