Job 1
BSB1 There was a man in the land of Uz whose name was Job. And this man was blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil. 2 He had seven sons and three daughters, 3 and he owned 7,000 sheep, 3,000 camels, 500 yoke of oxen, 500 female donkeys, and a very large number of servants. Job was the greatest man of all the people of the East. 4 Job’s sons would take turns holding feasts in their homes, and they would invite their three sisters to eat and drink with them. 5 And when the days of feasting were over, Job would send for his children to purify them, rising early in the morning to offer burnt offerings for all of them. For Job thought, “Perhaps my children have sinned and cursed God in their hearts.” This was Job’s regular practice. 6 One day the sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and Satan also came with them. 7 “Where have you come from?” said the LORD to Satan. “From roaming through the earth,” he replied, “and walking back and forth in it." 8 Then the LORD said to Satan, “Have you considered My servant Job? For there is no one on earth like him, a man who is blameless and upright, who fears God and shuns evil." 9 Satan answered the LORD, “Does Job fear God for nothing? 10 Have You not placed a hedge on every side around him and his household and all that he owns? You have blessed the work of his hands, and his possessions have increased in the land. 11 But stretch out Your hand and strike all that he has, and he will surely curse You to Your face." 12 “Very well,” said the LORD to Satan. “Everything he has is in your hands, but you must not lay a hand on the man himself.” Then Satan went out from the presence of the LORD. 13 One day, while Job’s sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house, 14 a messenger came and reported to Job: “While the oxen were plowing and the donkeys were grazing nearby, 15 the Sabeans swooped down and took them away. They put the servants to the sword, and I alone have escaped to tell you!" 16 While he was still speaking, another messenger came and reported: “The fire of God fell from heaven. It burned and consumed the sheep and the servants, and I alone have escaped to tell you!" 17 While he was still speaking, another messenger came and reported: “The Chaldeans formed three bands, raided the camels, and took them away. They put the servants to the sword, and I alone have escaped to tell you!" 18 While he was still speaking, another messenger came and reported: “Your sons and daughters were eating and drinking wine in their oldest brother’s house, 19 when suddenly a mighty wind swept in from the desert and struck the four corners of the house. It collapsed on the young people and they are dead, and I alone have escaped to tell you!" 20 Then Job stood up, tore his robe, and shaved his head. He fell to the ground and worshiped, 21 saying: “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away. Blessed be the name of the LORD." 22 In all this, Job did not sin or charge God with wrongdoing.
Study Notes — Job 1
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from Job 1
- Themes from Job 1
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on Job 1
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
The chapter begins by introducing Job, a blameless and upright man who fears God and shuns evil, with a large family and great wealth (Job 1:1-3). Satan appears before God, and God allows him to test Job by taking away his possessions and children (Job 1:6-12). Despite his great loss, Job responds with faith and trust in God, saying, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised' (Job 1:21). The chapter concludes with Satan's second appearance before God, where he is given permission to afflict Job's body, setting the stage for the rest of the book (Job 1:13-22).
Context for the Chapter
The book of Job is part of the Old Testament wisdom literature, which explores the nature of God, humanity, and the world. This chapter sets the stage for the rest of the book, which will delve into the mysteries of suffering, faith, and God's sovereignty. The story of Job is rooted in the ancient Near Eastern context, where the concept of God's sovereignty and the role of evil were widely debated. The chapter's themes and motifs are also connected to the broader biblical narrative, including the stories of Abraham, Joseph, and other biblical figures who faced similar challenges and struggles.
Heart Application
As we reflect on Job's story, we are invited to examine our own faith and trust in God's sovereignty. We are encouraged to surrender our circumstances to God, trusting in His goodness and love, even when we do not understand. This chapter reminds us that true faith is not based on our feelings or circumstances, but on the character of God, who is sovereign over all things.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter tells the story of Job, a good man who suffers greatly. Despite his loss, Job trusts in God and says, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised' (Job 1:21). We can learn from Job's example, trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when we do not understand our circumstances. As we reflect on Job's story, we are reminded that faith is not based on feelings or circumstances, but on the character of God.
Voices from the Church
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall. Job's story is a powerful reminder of this truth, as he rises above his suffering to worship and trust in God.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The book of Job is a remarkable example of the mystery of God's providence, where the righteous suffer and the wicked prosper. Yet, in the midst of this mystery, we find the steadfast faith of Job, who trusts in God's sovereignty and goodness.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to Job (1:1-5) — This section introduces Job, a blameless and upright man who fears God and shuns evil. We see the character of Job, his family, and his possessions, which sets the stage for the rest of the chapter.
- The First Test of Job (1:6-12) — In this section, Satan appears before God, and God allows him to test Job by taking away his possessions and children. We see the spiritual warfare that underlies the story of Job, and the ultimate authority of God over all things.
- Job's Response to Suffering (1:13-22) — This section presents Job's response to his suffering, where he trusts in God and says, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised' (Job 1:21). We see the depth of Job's faith and trust in God's sovereignty.
- The Second Test of Job (1:13-22) — In this section, Satan is given permission to afflict Job's body, setting the stage for the rest of the book. We see the ongoing struggle between God's sovereignty and Satan's evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan.
- Conclusion (1:22) — The chapter concludes with Job's famous statement, 'In all this, Job did not sin by charging God with wrongdoing' (Job 1:22). This statement highlights the theme of faith in the face of suffering, and sets the tone for the rest of the book.
Core Doctrines
- Sovereignty of God
- This chapter highlights God's sovereignty over all things, including the actions of Satan and the suffering of Job. We see that God is in control, even when we do not understand our circumstances.
- Spiritual Warfare
- The appearance of Satan in this chapter introduces the theme of spiritual warfare, where God's sovereignty is challenged by the evil one. We see the ongoing struggle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan.
- Faith and Trust
- Job's response to his suffering is a powerful example of faith and trust in God's sovereignty. We see that true faith is not based on circumstances, but on the character of God.
- Providence of God
- This chapter demonstrates God's providence, where He is actively involved in the lives of His people, even in the midst of suffering. We see that God's plan is not always easy to understand, but it is always good and just.
Lessons from Job 1
- Faith in the Face of Suffering — This chapter teaches us that faith is not based on circumstances, but on the character of God. We can learn from Job's example, trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when we do not understand our circumstances.
- The Sovereignty of God — This chapter highlights God's sovereignty over all things, including the actions of Satan and the suffering of Job. We see that God is in control, even when we do not understand our circumstances.
- The Role of Satan — The appearance of Satan in this chapter introduces the theme of spiritual warfare, where God's sovereignty is challenged by the evil one. We see the ongoing struggle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan.
- The Importance of Character — Job's character is highlighted in this chapter, demonstrating the importance of integrity and righteousness in the life of a believer. We see that character is not just about outward actions, but about the heart and motivations behind them.
- The Mystery of God's Ways — This chapter presents the mystery of God's ways, where the righteous suffer and the wicked prosper. We see that God's plan is not always easy to understand, but it is always good and just.
Themes from Job 1
- Faith and Trust — This chapter presents the theme of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, where Job's response to his suffering is a powerful example of surrender and worship.
- Suffering and Evil — The chapter introduces the theme of suffering and evil, where Job's loss and suffering are a result of Satan's actions. We see the ongoing struggle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan.
- God's Sovereignty — This chapter highlights God's sovereignty over all things, including the actions of Satan and the suffering of Job. We see that God is in control, even when we do not understand our circumstances.
- Character and Integrity — Job's character is highlighted in this chapter, demonstrating the importance of integrity and righteousness in the life of a believer. We see that character is not just about outward actions, but about the heart and motivations behind them.
- Worship and Praise — The chapter concludes with Job's statement, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised' (Job 1:21). We see the importance of worship and praise, even in the midst of suffering and adversity.
Questions for Meditation
- What does Job's character reveal about his relationship with God, and how can we apply this to our own lives?
- How does Satan's role in this chapter relate to the broader theme of spiritual warfare in the Bible, and what implications does this have for our own struggles with evil?
- What does Job's response to his suffering teach us about faith and trust in God's sovereignty, and how can we cultivate this kind of faith in our own lives?
- How does this chapter relate to the rest of the book of Job, and what themes or motifs are introduced here that will be developed later?
- What does this chapter teach us about the nature of God, and how can we apply this to our own understanding of God's character and plan?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to Job (1:1-5)
| 1:1 | This verse introduces Job, a blameless and upright man who fears God and shuns evil. We see the character of Job, which sets the stage for the rest of the chapter. |
| 1:2 | This verse describes Job's family and possessions, highlighting his prosperity and success. We see the blessings of God in Job's life, which will later be tested by Satan. |
2. The First Test of Job (1:6-12)
| 1:6 | This verse introduces Satan, who appears before God and begins to question Job's character. We see the spiritual warfare that underlies the story of Job, and the ultimate authority of God over all things. |
| 1:7 | This verse describes Satan's actions, where he is given permission to test Job by taking away his possessions and children. We see the ongoing struggle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan. |
3. Job's Response to Suffering (1:13-22)
| 1:13 | This verse describes the loss of Job's children and possessions, which is a result of Satan's actions. We see the depth of Job's suffering, and the challenge to his faith and trust in God. |
| 1:21 | This verse presents Job's response to his suffering, where he trusts in God and says, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised'. We see the power of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, even in the midst of great loss and adversity. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Satan's appearance in this chapter?
Satan's appearance in this chapter introduces the theme of spiritual warfare, where God's sovereignty is challenged by the evil one. We see the ongoing struggle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan (Job 1:6-12).
How does Job's response to his suffering relate to the rest of the book?
Job's response to his suffering is a powerful example of faith and trust in God's sovereignty. We see that true faith is not based on circumstances, but on the character of God (Job 1:21). This theme will be developed throughout the rest of the book, as Job struggles to understand God's ways and trust in His goodness.
What does this chapter teach us about the nature of God?
This chapter presents the nature of God as sovereign, wise, and just. We see that God is in control, even when we do not understand our circumstances, and that His plan is not always easy to understand, but it is always good and just (Job 1:1-22).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Job 1:1 → Genesis 1:1 | The introduction to Job is reminiscent of the introduction to the book of Genesis, where God creates the world and establishes His sovereignty over all things. |
| 2 | Job 1:6 → 1 Chronicles 21:1 | The appearance of Satan in this chapter is similar to his appearance in 1 Chronicles 21:1, where he incites David to take a census of Israel. We see the ongoing struggle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan. |
| 3 | Job 1:21 → Psalm 119:71 | Job's statement, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised', is similar to the psalmist's statement in Psalm 119:71, where he says, 'It was good for me to be afflicted, that I might learn your statutes'. We see the importance of worship and praise, even in the midst of suffering and adversity. |
| 4 | Job 1:1 → Matthew 5:48 | The introduction to Job, where he is described as blameless and upright, is similar to Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:48, where He says, 'You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect'. We see the importance of character and integrity in the life of a believer. |
| 5 | Job 1:6 → Revelation 12:9 | The appearance of Satan in this chapter is similar to his appearance in Revelation 12:9, where he is described as the one who deceives the whole world. We see the ongoing struggle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan. |
| 6 | Job 1:13 → John 10:10 | The loss of Job's children and possessions is reminiscent of Jesus' statement in John 10:10, where He says, 'The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly'. We see the contrast between the actions of Satan and the plan of God, and the ultimate triumph of God's goodness and love. |
| 7 | Job 1:21 → Romans 11:33 | Job's statement, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised', is similar to Paul's statement in Romans 11:33, where he says, 'Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!'. We see the importance of worship and praise, even in the midst of suffering and adversity. |
| 8 | Job 1:1 → Hebrews 11:1 | The introduction to Job is reminiscent of the introduction to the book of Hebrews, where faith is defined as the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. We see the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, even when we do not understand our circumstances. |
| 9 | Job 1:6 → 1 Peter 5:8 | The appearance of Satan in this chapter is similar to his appearance in 1 Peter 5:8, where he is described as a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. We see the ongoing struggle between good and evil, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan. |
| 10 | Job 1:21 → James 1:2 | Job's statement, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised', is similar to James' statement in James 1:2, where he says, 'Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds'. We see the importance of worship and praise, even in the midst of suffering and adversity. |
Sermons on Job 1
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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The Lord Giveth by E.V. Hill | In this sermon transcript, Dr. Evie Hill delivers a heartfelt message at his wife's funeral. He reflects on the 32 years they spent together and the love and support she gave him. |
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Job by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Job from the Bible. He highlights the various trials and tribulations that Job faced, including the loss of his possessions, the |
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(Job: An Epic in Brokenness) 1. in the Crucible of Suffering by Roy Hession | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the fourth test that Job faced, which was the counsel of his three friends. These friends, who were oriental philosophers, constantly implied |
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Making of a Man of God by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing a desire to draw closer to God and be broken before Him. He emphasizes that even in the midst of trials and confusion, God is at w |
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(Genesis) Genesis 39 Introduction by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Joseph from the book of Genesis. Joseph, despite facing numerous challenges and hardships, is a prime example of how God's provi |
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Don't Waste Your Life - Part 1 by John Piper | This sermon emphasizes the importance of not wasting our lives and finding significance, power, and meaning in every moment, even in the midst of pain and suffering. It reflects on |
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Though He Slay Me, Yet Will I Trust Him by Charles E. Fuller | The video is a sermon transcript that begins with a young boy expressing his gratitude for being a Christian and his desire for his father to be saved. The sermon then transitions |
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The Book of Job by Keith Daniel | In this sermon, the speaker recounts the story of Job from the Bible. Job, a wealthy and righteous man, experiences a series of devastating losses, including the death of his child |
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True Worship by Zac Poonen | This sermon emphasizes the importance of true worship, highlighting the significance of worshiping God in spirit and in truth. It explores the concept of worship from the beginning |
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Bearing Fruit - Part 3 by Keith Daniel | This sermon emphasizes the reality of trials, tribulations, and persecution that believers may face, contrary to the false teachings of prosperity and guaranteed healing. It highli |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on Job 1
In this chapter, we see the introduction to Job, a blameless and upright man who fears God and shuns evil. The appearance of Satan before God introduces the theme of spiritual warfare, where God's sovereignty is challenged by the evil one. Job's response to his suffering is a powerful example of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, where he trusts in God and says, 'The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised' (Job 1:21). This chapter sets the stage for the rest of the book, which will explore the mysteries of God's ways and the nature of suffering. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The history of Job is a remarkable instance of the wisdom and goodness of God in His providence, and the patience and faith of a good man under the severest trials'. We see the importance of faith and trust in God's sovereignty, even when we do not understand our circumstances, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Character of Job
Job is described as blameless and upright, fearing God and shunning evil. This portrayal highlights the importance of character and integrity in the life of a believer. Notice how Job's character is tested through his suffering, revealing the depth of his faith and trust in God.
The Role of Satan
Satan appears before God, and his actions are limited by God's sovereignty. This interaction reveals the spiritual warfare that underlies the story of Job, and the ultimate authority of God over all things, including evil.
The Response of Job
Job's response to his suffering is one of faith and trust in God, despite his great loss. This response is a powerful example of surrender and worship, demonstrating that true faith is not based on circumstances, but on the character of God.