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Job 32:21-22
21 Let me not, I pray you, accept [nasa'] any man's ['iysh] person [paniym], neither let me give flattering titles [kanah] unto man ['adam].
22 For I know [yada`] not to give flattering titles [kanah]; in so doing my maker [`asah] would soon [ma`at] take me away [nasa']. KJV-Interlinear
21 'Let me now be partial to no one; Nor flatter any man. 22 'For I do not know how to flatter, Else my Maker would soon take me away. NASB
To be partial means to be incomplete, to demonstrate some form of favor, to lean in one direction as opposed to another. It also means to tilt truth in favor of some form of courtesy or compliment, to compromise truth by means of flattery, to disregard truth such that no one will be insulted.
Elihu was going to call it like he saw it, and was not going to worry about anyone's feelings, nor favor anyone in order to gain their favor in return. In other words, no political correctness, no bias, no compromised principles. And, no made up principles such as the points the three friends leaned on in their statements.
When a thing is done in the wrong way and added to a wrong way, it is wrong. When a thing is done in a wrong way and added to a right way, it is still wrong. When a thing is done in a right way, but added to a wrong way, it is still wrong.
The only time a right thing becomes right is when it is done in a right way.
And so the result described by Elihu in the last verse. When something is not right, then God intervenes with suffering, punishment, discipline, judgment, loss and so forth, whichever is appropriate. 'Lest God take me away.'
Life must be lived inside the fellowship sphere.
You cannot have thoughts of lies and live in sin. That is a wrong combined with a wrong. The result is wrong.
You cannot think truth and live in sin. That is a right thing combined with a wrong. The result is wrong.
You cannot live in sin and preach truth. That is a wrong thing combined with a right. The result is wrong.
You must think truth and live truth. That is accomplished only while in fellowship. The result for your life is right.
Elihu is not going to compliment lies. Elihu is not going to address people with decorative addresses - 'Your excellency.' 'To the honorable ruler who knows all and sees all.' 'To the one and only wise king.'
Elihu will not use titles of honor for people who do not deserve them.
Furthermore, Elihu will not use Jobs words, since being younger, he has not known Job during Jobs long life. Likewise, Elihu will not use the arguments of the three friends, since they are shallow empty clichés which lack verifiable proofs.
And, Elihu will not subscribe to popular beliefs, merely because they happen to be popular, or perceived as popular.
The only way one can live their spiritual life, the only way one can advance in their spiritual life, the only way one can grow up spiritually, the only way one can maximize their relationship with God, is to first live inside the fellowship sphere, and second, be obedient to the mandates which God has laid out in the scriptures.
The primary mandate is to study, learn, utilize, and grow up spiritually, which is the circle of wisdom designed to make you successful in life, regardless of your circumstances.
With God nothing is impossible, and you gain access to that power while living inside the fellowship sphere.
Life is a battle. Life is an ongoing battle which continues all day long, day after day, throughout your entire life. Your 'arms raised high,' is your appeal and your surrender to God through obedience (confession, growth, etc) every moment of the day, every day of your life.
Lower your arms (become lax in your spiritual life) and the battle goes against you. Raise your arms (obedience to the mandates of God), and the battle goes well with you.
God does not need the instruments of man in order to accomplish His will. But if you remain positive and obedient to God through adherence and pursuit of your spiritual life, then God always honors your positive volition, and in that respect, He will never fail you. 'The battle is the Lords.'
'Arms raised high.' Live by this principle and breathe it.
'Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things.'
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Job 32:18-20
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Job 32:18-20
18 For I am full [male'] of matter [millah], the spirit [ruwach] within [beten] me constraineth [tsuwq] me.
19 Behold, my belly [beten] is as wine [yayin] which hath no vent [pathach]; it is ready to burst [baqa`] like new [chadash] bottles ['owb].
20 I will speak [dabar], that I may be refreshed [ravach]: I will open [pathach] my lips [saphah] and answer [`anah]. KJV-Interlinear
18 'For I am full of words; The spirit within me constrains me. 19 'Behold, my belly is like unvented wine, Like new wineskins it is about to burst. 20 'Let me speak that I may get relief; Let me open my lips and answer. NASB
New wine skins hold new wine. When the wine is in its state of fermentation, it gives off vapors which when contained, create pressure. In bags made of skins, the bags can burst under the strain unless opened to release the pressure.
In his youth, Elihu is anxious, full of energy, full of words which will make him simply burst apart, as he uses the expression, if he is not allowed to speak and get the words out.
But the spirit within him, and this is the lesson of the day, constrains him such that he withholds himself until everyone has had their say and until he has an opportunity, and their permission, to speak.
When a person is born, he is born physically alive but spiritually dead. The body has biological life residing in the physical body, and the soul has human life residing within the soul.
When a person believes in the Savior (Christ), then he receives a new birth. This is often times called being reborn, or born again. At the instant of belief, God creates a human spirit and imputes eternal life within it. Now a person is body, soul, and spirit. Each are the respective vessels of their respective lives - biological, human, and eternal life.
During ones life, you will be under the control of the sin nature or the Holy Spirit depending on whether you have confessed your sins to the Father or not.
When you sin, or when you disregard the spiritual aspects of your life (you sin by default), then you are said to be out of fellowship. In this case you live your life as a slave to the sin nature.
When you confess your sins (this applies to believers only), then you are said to be in fellowship, and live your life under the control of the Holy Spirit. 'In the spirit,' is an expression for being in fellowship.
And so Elihu, though he is young, explains here that he is speaking while he is in fellowship, under the control of the spirit, while he applies self discipline to his own actions by respecting the elders, and by holding his tongue in their presence.
It is this self-discipline which he has trained himself in, by learning manners and respect and so forth, that constrains him.
Confession of sin, daily Bible study, and all of the repetition that occurs in this process, serve as excellent training devices and learning tools for spiritual growth.
And note, these methods apply only to believers. Unbelievers lack a human spirit, which is the critical link for having a relationship with God and the spiritual side of life. No human spirit (which comes only through faith in Christ), no spiritual life.
Elihu is itching to speak, and feels like he will explode if told to keep still. But he has great poise and self discipline restraining him despite his emotional feelings in the matter.
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Job 32:18-20
18 For I am full [male'] of matter [millah], the spirit [ruwach] within [beten] me constraineth [tsuwq] me.
19 Behold, my belly [beten] is as wine [yayin] which hath no vent [pathach]; it is ready to burst [baqa`] like new [chadash] bottles ['owb].
20 I will speak [dabar], that I may be refreshed [ravach]: I will open [pathach] my lips [saphah] and answer [`anah]. KJV-Interlinear
18 'For I am full of words; The spirit within me constrains me. 19 'Behold, my belly is like unvented wine, Like new wineskins it is about to burst. 20 'Let me speak that I may get relief; Let me open my lips and answer. NASB
New wine skins hold new wine. When the wine is in its state of fermentation, it gives off vapors which when contained, create pressure. In bags made of skins, the bags can burst under the strain unless opened to release the pressure.
In his youth, Elihu is anxious, full of energy, full of words which will make him simply burst apart, as he uses the expression, if he is not allowed to speak and get the words out.
But the spirit within him, and this is the lesson of the day, constrains him such that he withholds himself until everyone has had their say and until he has an opportunity, and their permission, to speak.
When a person is born, he is born physically alive but spiritually dead. The body has biological life residing in the physical body, and the soul has human life residing within the soul.
When a person believes in the Savior (Christ), then he receives a new birth. This is often times called being reborn, or born again. At the instant of belief, God creates a human spirit and imputes eternal life within it. Now a person is body, soul, and spirit. Each are the respective vessels of their respective lives - biological, human, and eternal life.
During ones life, you will be under the control of the sin nature or the Holy Spirit depending on whether you have confessed your sins to the Father or not.
When you sin, or when you disregard the spiritual aspects of your life (you sin by default), then you are said to be out of fellowship. In this case you live your life as a slave to the sin nature.
When you confess your sins (this applies to believers only), then you are said to be in fellowship, and live your life under the control of the Holy Spirit. 'In the spirit,' is an expression for being in fellowship.
And so Elihu, though he is young, explains here that he is speaking while he is in fellowship, under the control of the spirit, while he applies self discipline to his own actions by respecting the elders, and by holding his tongue in their presence.
It is this self-discipline which he has trained himself in, by learning manners and respect and so forth, that constrains him.
Confession of sin, daily Bible study, and all of the repetition that occurs in this process, serve as excellent training devices and learning tools for spiritual growth.
And note, these methods apply only to believers. Unbelievers lack a human spirit, which is the critical link for having a relationship with God and the spiritual side of life. No human spirit (which comes only through faith in Christ), no spiritual life.
Elihu is itching to speak, and feels like he will explode if told to keep still. But he has great poise and self discipline restraining him despite his emotional feelings in the matter.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Job 32:15-17
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Job 32:15-17
15 They were amazed [chathath], they answered [`anah] no more: they left off [`athaq] speaking [millah].
16 When I had waited [yachal], (for they spake [dabar] not, but stood still [`amad], and answered [`anah] no more;)
17 I said, I will answer [`anah] also my part [cheleq], I also will shew [chavah] mine opinion [dea`]. KJV-Interlinear
15 'They are dismayed, they answer no more; Words have failed them. 16 'And shall I wait, because they do not speak, Because they stop and answer no more? 17 'I too will answer my share, I also will tell my opinion. NASB
The book of Job raises a controversy between Job and his three friends. Each of the three has their respective say, and Job answers each in turn. When all of their words have come to an end, the three reject Jobs views as Job rejects their accusations. But, they all come to a silence, with neither having anything further to say.
Job will not budge from his beliefs. His three friends do not leave, because they still believe that they are right and nothing has been yet accomplished. So, they all remain silent for a while.
Elihu is a bystander. He has heard all of the arguments and opinions, and he is furious and frustrated in that he expected that from four such old and presumably wise men, truth would prevail. Not so.
So, Elihu will begin to voice his beliefs and hope to resolve the controversy. He will also fail.
The God will enter into the picture and God will sit them all back on their respective haunches, setting their open mouths (speaking or thinking their opinions) in total silence.
Elihu, who is much younger, sat and listened. He did not hear the wisdom he expected to hear. The four men became silent and now Elihu is agitated and beside himself, as it were, just filled with energy and bursting with his own thoughts.
Elihu represents the young and knowledgeable, but still not quite mature individual. He shoud have remained silent until he could learn and keep learning from the experience. But as young people go, he bursts forth with impatience and the frustration of not seeing this controversy resolved. This is a generation gap situation.
And that is going to be a picture of life in this world. Controversies will come and go, and controversies will continue, and continue and seemingly never end. Get involved with any social group and you will have your eyes opened at the endless social stresses, gossiping, ostracisms, power plays and so forth, that never end.
No matter how you try to resolve an issue, there will be those who will never listen, will never change their minds, who will continue the controversy forever, or until you just plain quit. And of course that is what they want. For you to quite so they can continue dominating their little social club activity, or whatever it is that they want to control. And the young will be frustrated with the older generation.
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Job 32:15-17
15 They were amazed [chathath], they answered [`anah] no more: they left off [`athaq] speaking [millah].
16 When I had waited [yachal], (for they spake [dabar] not, but stood still [`amad], and answered [`anah] no more;)
17 I said, I will answer [`anah] also my part [cheleq], I also will shew [chavah] mine opinion [dea`]. KJV-Interlinear
15 'They are dismayed, they answer no more; Words have failed them. 16 'And shall I wait, because they do not speak, Because they stop and answer no more? 17 'I too will answer my share, I also will tell my opinion. NASB
The book of Job raises a controversy between Job and his three friends. Each of the three has their respective say, and Job answers each in turn. When all of their words have come to an end, the three reject Jobs views as Job rejects their accusations. But, they all come to a silence, with neither having anything further to say.
Job will not budge from his beliefs. His three friends do not leave, because they still believe that they are right and nothing has been yet accomplished. So, they all remain silent for a while.
Elihu is a bystander. He has heard all of the arguments and opinions, and he is furious and frustrated in that he expected that from four such old and presumably wise men, truth would prevail. Not so.
So, Elihu will begin to voice his beliefs and hope to resolve the controversy. He will also fail.
The God will enter into the picture and God will sit them all back on their respective haunches, setting their open mouths (speaking or thinking their opinions) in total silence.
Elihu, who is much younger, sat and listened. He did not hear the wisdom he expected to hear. The four men became silent and now Elihu is agitated and beside himself, as it were, just filled with energy and bursting with his own thoughts.
Elihu represents the young and knowledgeable, but still not quite mature individual. He shoud have remained silent until he could learn and keep learning from the experience. But as young people go, he bursts forth with impatience and the frustration of not seeing this controversy resolved. This is a generation gap situation.
And that is going to be a picture of life in this world. Controversies will come and go, and controversies will continue, and continue and seemingly never end. Get involved with any social group and you will have your eyes opened at the endless social stresses, gossiping, ostracisms, power plays and so forth, that never end.
No matter how you try to resolve an issue, there will be those who will never listen, will never change their minds, who will continue the controversy forever, or until you just plain quit. And of course that is what they want. For you to quite so they can continue dominating their little social club activity, or whatever it is that they want to control. And the young will be frustrated with the older generation.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Job 32:14
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Job 32:14
14 Now he hath not directed [`arak] his words [millah] against me: neither will I answer [shuwb] him with your speeches ['emer]. KJV-Interlinear
14 'For he has not arranged his words against me; Nor will I reply to him with your arguments. NASB
Elihu states that this discussion has escalated into a controversy of words between the three friends and Job.
Job has taken the position that he is not the wicked person he has been made out to be. The three friends have taken disaster, the disaster of Jobs life, and have made it into some kind of controversy demanding an admission of guilt from Job before his problem will go away.
The friends have gone so far as to make accusations of culpability, fault, and guilt against Job, combined with their emotional retaliation against his personal defenses.
Elihu is now going to assume a role of an impartial and unbiased bystander. And here he states just that.
He has listened in silence as the friends have attacked Job and as Job has defended himself. Jobs words were not directed at Elihu, and likewise Elihu is not going to try to pick apart Jobs words.
Furthermore, the friends came out swinging with unfounded accusations and unproven society accepted principles. At least in their opinions. And Elihu states that he is not going to take up there arguments due to their weakness and inaccuracies.
Elihu's intent is to function as an impartial intermediary or a mediator between the two parties. But in his speech he will try to show both parties in error and that God is the only party who will be proven right in the matter. And God has not spoken yet, but Elihu is going to attempt to give a divine view from his impartial position.
So, Job and his three friends have sat down and argued and neither have come out the winner, from each of their own perspectives. Although, the friends gave up in their argument, they gave up while shaking their heads to what they perceived as Jobs stubbornness.
Job stood fast in his position of relative righteousness. That is, being as best a person can be in Gods sight, given the difficulties of the world.
Elihu will make his case over the course of the next several chapters, while Job will be polite and allow him, Elihu the youngster, to speak. Job will not respond to Elihu, despite the accusations Elihu will make, but this will only indicate Jobs courtesy in allowing Elihu to speak.
God will not make any comments directly to Elihu, indicating His courtesy in allowing the voice of innocent immaturity to speak its mind.
But as far as you and I are concerned, Elihu will still be able to teach us a great deal of doctrine.
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Job 32:14
14 Now he hath not directed [`arak] his words [millah] against me: neither will I answer [shuwb] him with your speeches ['emer]. KJV-Interlinear
14 'For he has not arranged his words against me; Nor will I reply to him with your arguments. NASB
Elihu states that this discussion has escalated into a controversy of words between the three friends and Job.
Job has taken the position that he is not the wicked person he has been made out to be. The three friends have taken disaster, the disaster of Jobs life, and have made it into some kind of controversy demanding an admission of guilt from Job before his problem will go away.
The friends have gone so far as to make accusations of culpability, fault, and guilt against Job, combined with their emotional retaliation against his personal defenses.
Elihu is now going to assume a role of an impartial and unbiased bystander. And here he states just that.
He has listened in silence as the friends have attacked Job and as Job has defended himself. Jobs words were not directed at Elihu, and likewise Elihu is not going to try to pick apart Jobs words.
Furthermore, the friends came out swinging with unfounded accusations and unproven society accepted principles. At least in their opinions. And Elihu states that he is not going to take up there arguments due to their weakness and inaccuracies.
Elihu's intent is to function as an impartial intermediary or a mediator between the two parties. But in his speech he will try to show both parties in error and that God is the only party who will be proven right in the matter. And God has not spoken yet, but Elihu is going to attempt to give a divine view from his impartial position.
So, Job and his three friends have sat down and argued and neither have come out the winner, from each of their own perspectives. Although, the friends gave up in their argument, they gave up while shaking their heads to what they perceived as Jobs stubbornness.
Job stood fast in his position of relative righteousness. That is, being as best a person can be in Gods sight, given the difficulties of the world.
Elihu will make his case over the course of the next several chapters, while Job will be polite and allow him, Elihu the youngster, to speak. Job will not respond to Elihu, despite the accusations Elihu will make, but this will only indicate Jobs courtesy in allowing Elihu to speak.
God will not make any comments directly to Elihu, indicating His courtesy in allowing the voice of innocent immaturity to speak its mind.
But as far as you and I are concerned, Elihu will still be able to teach us a great deal of doctrine.
Job 32:13
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Job 32:13
13 Lest ye should say ['amar], We have found out [matsa'] wisdom [chokmah]: God ['el] thrusteth him down [nadaph], not man ['iysh]. KJV-Interlinear
13 'Do not say, 'We have found wisdom; God will rout him, not man.' NASB
Now Elihu suggests that their age, their experience, and their observations of life are insufficient foundations or supports for their conclusions.
Do not say that you have found wisdom. That is what people have sought after, all over the world and throughout history.
History has been loaded with philosophies, beliefs, religions, everything imaginable as people have sought wisdom, a higher learning, a higher purpose, a better explanation, as to who they are, what they are, where they have come from, where they are going, and what life is all about.
Then there are those who conclude that they have discovered wisdom, or the answers to the universe, and then they bail out of responsibility and are more than willing to let karma, chance, luck, life, nature, the force, even God, take care of life's destinies.
And this is what Elihu tells us that these three friends are doing. 'We know the answers, now God will deal with you, Job.'
Haven't we heard this in the movies, or read from history books? Some person pointing their righteous finger and stating, 'God will deal with you!!!' The raising of the hand, the shaking of the finger adds power to their words, of course. And while the statement is true, they imply that they have some influence in Gods decisions and that He will now send fire and lightning and such at their discretion.
And of course the latter part is a detachment from reality.
Nothing man can imagine, or innovate, or invent from the source of his own thinking, will ever equate to or match or surpass Gods wisdom. Man, on his own, can never approach or even come close to Gods wisdom. Man simply does not have that ability.
All wisdom comes from God and from God alone. All wisdom comes to man through the spiritual conduit which God has prepared for man.
Man cannot attribute to himself, cannot claim for himself, cannot credit to himself, that which belongs to God. Man is dust and nothing more. Mans life was invented and created by God, and man cannot even perpetuate himself without Gods gracious will.
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Job 32:13
13 Lest ye should say ['amar], We have found out [matsa'] wisdom [chokmah]: God ['el] thrusteth him down [nadaph], not man ['iysh]. KJV-Interlinear
13 'Do not say, 'We have found wisdom; God will rout him, not man.' NASB
Now Elihu suggests that their age, their experience, and their observations of life are insufficient foundations or supports for their conclusions.
Do not say that you have found wisdom. That is what people have sought after, all over the world and throughout history.
History has been loaded with philosophies, beliefs, religions, everything imaginable as people have sought wisdom, a higher learning, a higher purpose, a better explanation, as to who they are, what they are, where they have come from, where they are going, and what life is all about.
Then there are those who conclude that they have discovered wisdom, or the answers to the universe, and then they bail out of responsibility and are more than willing to let karma, chance, luck, life, nature, the force, even God, take care of life's destinies.
And this is what Elihu tells us that these three friends are doing. 'We know the answers, now God will deal with you, Job.'
Haven't we heard this in the movies, or read from history books? Some person pointing their righteous finger and stating, 'God will deal with you!!!' The raising of the hand, the shaking of the finger adds power to their words, of course. And while the statement is true, they imply that they have some influence in Gods decisions and that He will now send fire and lightning and such at their discretion.
And of course the latter part is a detachment from reality.
Nothing man can imagine, or innovate, or invent from the source of his own thinking, will ever equate to or match or surpass Gods wisdom. Man, on his own, can never approach or even come close to Gods wisdom. Man simply does not have that ability.
All wisdom comes from God and from God alone. All wisdom comes to man through the spiritual conduit which God has prepared for man.
Man cannot attribute to himself, cannot claim for himself, cannot credit to himself, that which belongs to God. Man is dust and nothing more. Mans life was invented and created by God, and man cannot even perpetuate himself without Gods gracious will.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Job 32:11-12
This study is from an on going online Daily Bible Study at:
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Job 32:11-12
11 Behold, I waited [yachal] for your words [dabar]; I gave ear ['azan] to your reasons [tabuwn], whilst ye searched out [chaqar] what to say [millah].
12 Yea, I attended [biyn] unto you, and, behold, there was none of you that convinced [yakach] Job ['Iyowb], or that answered [`anah] his words ['emer]: KJV-Interlinear
11 'Behold, I waited for your words, I listened to your reasonings, While you pondered what to say. 12 'I even paid close attention to you, Indeed, there was no one who refuted Job, Not one of you who answered his words. NASB
First a quick review of the backgrounds of Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, from our study of Job 2:11.
Eliphaz is the first of the three friends. His name means 'God is fine gold,' or 'God of strength,' with emphasis on the earthly nature of these meanings. Eliphaz is the most prominent of the three friends. His speeches demonstrate greater weight and originality. He is a Temanite, which means southerner. His arguments represent the best wisdom of the world. His wisdom is described as the result of ages of thought and experience, Job 15:17-19, of long and ripened study, 5:27, and he claims the ability of revelation.
Bildad, is the second of the three friends. His name means, 'son of contention,' or 'Bel has loved.' Bel means, 'wisdom of the distant East.' Though the location of his homeland is not known, it apparently is east of Job's home. Bildad's speeches generally echo the words of Eliphaz, but are delivered with more severity and sternness.
The third friend is Zophar. Zophar means 'chirping' or 'to leap.' His home, too, is uncertain as to its location, however Naamah was place to the west of Arabia, near the place of the future Judah. He is the most impulsive and inflexible of the three. He speaks only twice. His words are intense and are somewhat reckless exaggerations. He will be the first to accuse Job of wickedness. Like the rest of the friends, Zophar promises peace and restoration on condition of Job's repentance.
These three friends collectively express the wisdom of human reason, from the point of view of age, from experience, and from observation.
Now Elihu is going to thoroughly trounce their sources of wisdom and their wisdom itself.
He, being younger than they, has a greater patience than the friends, and he seems to have a great deal of concentration with respect to listening to what is being said.
Elihu has been present throughout the entire discussion. He heard everything that was said. He heard every accusation, every implication, every basis of reasoning. Elihu heard all of Jobs responses as well as his every complaint and lecture on divine viewpoint.
Elihu heard no valid response from any of the three friends, and certainly no proof, with which they could validate their comments. And even though this study today will be a short one, it will lay the groundwork for a very important principle of truth which we will get to tomorrow.
Just remember that Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, represent wisdom as seen through the eyes of the world.
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Job 32:11-12
11 Behold, I waited [yachal] for your words [dabar]; I gave ear ['azan] to your reasons [tabuwn], whilst ye searched out [chaqar] what to say [millah].
12 Yea, I attended [biyn] unto you, and, behold, there was none of you that convinced [yakach] Job ['Iyowb], or that answered [`anah] his words ['emer]: KJV-Interlinear
11 'Behold, I waited for your words, I listened to your reasonings, While you pondered what to say. 12 'I even paid close attention to you, Indeed, there was no one who refuted Job, Not one of you who answered his words. NASB
First a quick review of the backgrounds of Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, from our study of Job 2:11.
Eliphaz is the first of the three friends. His name means 'God is fine gold,' or 'God of strength,' with emphasis on the earthly nature of these meanings. Eliphaz is the most prominent of the three friends. His speeches demonstrate greater weight and originality. He is a Temanite, which means southerner. His arguments represent the best wisdom of the world. His wisdom is described as the result of ages of thought and experience, Job 15:17-19, of long and ripened study, 5:27, and he claims the ability of revelation.
Bildad, is the second of the three friends. His name means, 'son of contention,' or 'Bel has loved.' Bel means, 'wisdom of the distant East.' Though the location of his homeland is not known, it apparently is east of Job's home. Bildad's speeches generally echo the words of Eliphaz, but are delivered with more severity and sternness.
The third friend is Zophar. Zophar means 'chirping' or 'to leap.' His home, too, is uncertain as to its location, however Naamah was place to the west of Arabia, near the place of the future Judah. He is the most impulsive and inflexible of the three. He speaks only twice. His words are intense and are somewhat reckless exaggerations. He will be the first to accuse Job of wickedness. Like the rest of the friends, Zophar promises peace and restoration on condition of Job's repentance.
These three friends collectively express the wisdom of human reason, from the point of view of age, from experience, and from observation.
Now Elihu is going to thoroughly trounce their sources of wisdom and their wisdom itself.
He, being younger than they, has a greater patience than the friends, and he seems to have a great deal of concentration with respect to listening to what is being said.
Elihu has been present throughout the entire discussion. He heard everything that was said. He heard every accusation, every implication, every basis of reasoning. Elihu heard all of Jobs responses as well as his every complaint and lecture on divine viewpoint.
Elihu heard no valid response from any of the three friends, and certainly no proof, with which they could validate their comments. And even though this study today will be a short one, it will lay the groundwork for a very important principle of truth which we will get to tomorrow.
Just remember that Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, represent wisdom as seen through the eyes of the world.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Job 32:6-10
This study is from an on going online Daily Bible Study at:
DailyBibleStudy.Org | Daily Bible Study Index Page | Daily Bible Study Online E-Book Library
Job 32:6-10
6 And Elihu ['Eliyhuw] the son [ben] of Barachel [Barak'el] the Buzite [Buwziy] answered [`anah] and said ['amar], I am young [tsa`iyr] [yowm], and ye are very old [yashiysh]; wherefore I was afraid [zachal], and durst [yare'] not shew [chavah] you mine opinion [dea`].
7 I said ['amar], Days [yowm] should speak [dabar], and multitude [rob] of years [shaneh (in pl. only),] should teach [yada`] wisdom [chokmah].
8 But ['aken] there is a spirit [ruwach] in man ['enowsh]: and the inspiration [nashamah] of the Almighty [Shadday] giveth them understanding [biyn].
9 Great men [rab] are not always wise [chakam]: neither do the aged [zaqen] understand [biyn] judgment [mishpat].
10 Therefore I said ['amar], Hearken [shama`] to me; I also will shew [chavah] mine opinion [dea`]. KJV-Interlinear
6 So Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite spoke out and said, 'I am young in years and you are old; Therefore I was shy and afraid to tell you what I think. 7 'I thought age should speak, And increased years should teach wisdom. 8 'But it is a spirit in man, And the breath of the Almighty gives them understanding. 9 'The abundant in years may not be wise, Nor may elders understand justice. 10 'So I say, 'Listen to me, I too will tell what I think.' NASB
Just as the three friends fell short of wisdom, but had enough knowledge to teach us all a great deal of Bible doctrine, so too, Elihu will be able to teach us all a great deal of truth, even though when he is all done speaking, he too will be somewhat off base in the application of his opinions regarding Job.
Elihu was younger than the others. He was probably much younger, as here he states that he was uncomfortable and even hesitant to speak in the first place. The other day, we suggested that he was half their age. But he could very well have been much younger.
Is was not uncommon in many cultures for the youngsters to remain quiet in the presence of their elders. In fact, any form of speaking, unless specifically addressed, was strictly prohibited.
This might be a great rule to return to in our present day. But then there are some things that are indeed impossible!!
Anyway, this gives us some insight as to Elihu's upbringing, and the character of child training in those ancient times. Elihu does not sound as though he has been abused in his younger years, only well trained in manners and respect. Something that seems to be generally lacking in our present generation.
But Elihu does have some spunk about him.
Even though he has refrained from speaking until everyone has finished, he still has some very keen insight. And he is not shy about speaking his mind now that he has begun talking.
Is wisdom automatic with age? No. And Elihu makes that point clear. Just because one has grown old, does not mean that the elder has wisdom.
God placed the spirit of man in man. This would be the human life force, which occupies the soul of every living human being. Note that the life of man did not come from any biological source, but from God. And by the way, when a person dies, all components return back to their original source. The body to the grave and decay (that is biological) and the soul and spirit return back to God from whence they originated.
Even though man possesses life, that does not mean that he will be smart. And Elihu makes that point clear also. Wisdom comes from God as well. Wisdom does not originate with man. Wisdom does not originate with any biological function (genetics, IQ, etc.). Wisdom does not come from any source on this earth.
Wisdom comes only from God, and God delivers wisdom through Bible doctrine.
Man can learn all of the knowledge of this universe, but will ever gain wisdom. Man can learn all of the quotes, sayings, proverbs, quips and so forth, and never gain one ounce of wisdom.
Man is not born with wisdom. Man cannot gain wisdom through the experiences of life. By simply living a very long time, man does not automatically gain wisdom.
Prov. 2:6
6 For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. NASB
Wisdom is in fact the single most elusive attribute of life, and yet wisdom is the supernatural attribute of the spiritual life.
By merely being saved, residing in fellowship, and pursuing ones daily Bible studies, by reading all of the 'In the beginnings…,' all of the 'begats,' all of the 'thee's and thou's,' and so forth, then the sovereignty of God makes something extremely simple in life (your daily study), into the most powerful life builder in existence.
For those who pursue their spiritual life, this truth becomes evident. For those who do not have the time for their spiritual life, all of this is nonsense.
DailyBibleStudy.Org | Daily Bible Study Index Page | Daily Bible Study Online E-Book Library
Job 32:6-10
6 And Elihu ['Eliyhuw] the son [ben] of Barachel [Barak'el] the Buzite [Buwziy] answered [`anah] and said ['amar], I am young [tsa`iyr] [yowm], and ye are very old [yashiysh]; wherefore I was afraid [zachal], and durst [yare'] not shew [chavah] you mine opinion [dea`].
7 I said ['amar], Days [yowm] should speak [dabar], and multitude [rob] of years [shaneh (in pl. only),] should teach [yada`] wisdom [chokmah].
8 But ['aken] there is a spirit [ruwach] in man ['enowsh]: and the inspiration [nashamah] of the Almighty [Shadday] giveth them understanding [biyn].
9 Great men [rab] are not always wise [chakam]: neither do the aged [zaqen] understand [biyn] judgment [mishpat].
10 Therefore I said ['amar], Hearken [shama`] to me; I also will shew [chavah] mine opinion [dea`]. KJV-Interlinear
6 So Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite spoke out and said, 'I am young in years and you are old; Therefore I was shy and afraid to tell you what I think. 7 'I thought age should speak, And increased years should teach wisdom. 8 'But it is a spirit in man, And the breath of the Almighty gives them understanding. 9 'The abundant in years may not be wise, Nor may elders understand justice. 10 'So I say, 'Listen to me, I too will tell what I think.' NASB
Just as the three friends fell short of wisdom, but had enough knowledge to teach us all a great deal of Bible doctrine, so too, Elihu will be able to teach us all a great deal of truth, even though when he is all done speaking, he too will be somewhat off base in the application of his opinions regarding Job.
Elihu was younger than the others. He was probably much younger, as here he states that he was uncomfortable and even hesitant to speak in the first place. The other day, we suggested that he was half their age. But he could very well have been much younger.
Is was not uncommon in many cultures for the youngsters to remain quiet in the presence of their elders. In fact, any form of speaking, unless specifically addressed, was strictly prohibited.
This might be a great rule to return to in our present day. But then there are some things that are indeed impossible!!
Anyway, this gives us some insight as to Elihu's upbringing, and the character of child training in those ancient times. Elihu does not sound as though he has been abused in his younger years, only well trained in manners and respect. Something that seems to be generally lacking in our present generation.
But Elihu does have some spunk about him.
Even though he has refrained from speaking until everyone has finished, he still has some very keen insight. And he is not shy about speaking his mind now that he has begun talking.
Is wisdom automatic with age? No. And Elihu makes that point clear. Just because one has grown old, does not mean that the elder has wisdom.
God placed the spirit of man in man. This would be the human life force, which occupies the soul of every living human being. Note that the life of man did not come from any biological source, but from God. And by the way, when a person dies, all components return back to their original source. The body to the grave and decay (that is biological) and the soul and spirit return back to God from whence they originated.
Even though man possesses life, that does not mean that he will be smart. And Elihu makes that point clear also. Wisdom comes from God as well. Wisdom does not originate with man. Wisdom does not originate with any biological function (genetics, IQ, etc.). Wisdom does not come from any source on this earth.
Wisdom comes only from God, and God delivers wisdom through Bible doctrine.
Man can learn all of the knowledge of this universe, but will ever gain wisdom. Man can learn all of the quotes, sayings, proverbs, quips and so forth, and never gain one ounce of wisdom.
Man is not born with wisdom. Man cannot gain wisdom through the experiences of life. By simply living a very long time, man does not automatically gain wisdom.
Prov. 2:6
6 For the Lord gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. NASB
Wisdom is in fact the single most elusive attribute of life, and yet wisdom is the supernatural attribute of the spiritual life.
By merely being saved, residing in fellowship, and pursuing ones daily Bible studies, by reading all of the 'In the beginnings…,' all of the 'begats,' all of the 'thee's and thou's,' and so forth, then the sovereignty of God makes something extremely simple in life (your daily study), into the most powerful life builder in existence.
For those who pursue their spiritual life, this truth becomes evident. For those who do not have the time for their spiritual life, all of this is nonsense.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Job 32:4-5
This study is from an on going online Daily Bible Study at:
DailyBibleStudy.Org | Daily Bible Study Index Page | Daily Bible Study Online E-Book Library
Job 32:4-5
4 Now Elihu ['Eliyhuw] had waited [chakah] till Job ['Iyowb] had spoken [dabar], because they were elder [zaqen] [yowm] than he.
5 When Elihu ['Eliyhuw] saw [ra'ah] that there was no answer [ma`aneh] in the mouth [peh] of these three [shalowsh] men ['enowsh], then his wrath ['aph] was kindled [charah]. KJV-Interlinear
4 Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because they were years older than he. 5 And when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of the three men his anger burned. NASB
There must have been a significant pause after Job spoke his last words. The three friends, Eliphaz, Zophar and Bildad, had nothing further to say.
Who else was present in Jobs home? We only have these four guests identified within this book. We presume that Jobs wife was present, and of course Job himself. Then since these four men traveled some distance, three of them being older, then we can reasonably assume that there were other people present, people who were among the traveling entourage of the guests.
Elihu is among the youngest of the guests. And though young, he was allowed to sit nearby as the older men spoke. Furthermore, he is allowed to speak, so that indicates that he was acquainted with these men. He was not simply a passerby or a party crasher that no one knew.
Elihu had manners, and even though he disagreed with what had been said by the elders present, he maintained his respect for their years.
Whenever a mix of people are gathered together, then deference should be given to those who are older.
Years does not equate to wisdom. The world is full of older folks who have foolishly wasted their lives and of whom make bad decisions over and over again. But even when wisdom comes up against age, then the elders must be given a degree of respect, regardless of their opinions.
There is an unwritten rule in life, that says, age is the basis for higher position as far as courtesy and respect are concerned. It follows the respect that that is earned and deserved for authority through age, by the mere fact that God has allowed and maintained a person on this earth into his older years.
If God sees fit to keep someone around, then we can only respect His decision and reasons, and their receipt of such blessing.
There is nothing to be gained by being disrespectful of ones elders, and everything to be gained through being respectful and polite, even if you disagree with their views.
DailyBibleStudy.Org | Daily Bible Study Index Page | Daily Bible Study Online E-Book Library
Job 32:4-5
4 Now Elihu ['Eliyhuw] had waited [chakah] till Job ['Iyowb] had spoken [dabar], because they were elder [zaqen] [yowm] than he.
5 When Elihu ['Eliyhuw] saw [ra'ah] that there was no answer [ma`aneh] in the mouth [peh] of these three [shalowsh] men ['enowsh], then his wrath ['aph] was kindled [charah]. KJV-Interlinear
4 Now Elihu had waited to speak to Job because they were years older than he. 5 And when Elihu saw that there was no answer in the mouth of the three men his anger burned. NASB
There must have been a significant pause after Job spoke his last words. The three friends, Eliphaz, Zophar and Bildad, had nothing further to say.
Who else was present in Jobs home? We only have these four guests identified within this book. We presume that Jobs wife was present, and of course Job himself. Then since these four men traveled some distance, three of them being older, then we can reasonably assume that there were other people present, people who were among the traveling entourage of the guests.
Elihu is among the youngest of the guests. And though young, he was allowed to sit nearby as the older men spoke. Furthermore, he is allowed to speak, so that indicates that he was acquainted with these men. He was not simply a passerby or a party crasher that no one knew.
Elihu had manners, and even though he disagreed with what had been said by the elders present, he maintained his respect for their years.
Whenever a mix of people are gathered together, then deference should be given to those who are older.
Years does not equate to wisdom. The world is full of older folks who have foolishly wasted their lives and of whom make bad decisions over and over again. But even when wisdom comes up against age, then the elders must be given a degree of respect, regardless of their opinions.
There is an unwritten rule in life, that says, age is the basis for higher position as far as courtesy and respect are concerned. It follows the respect that that is earned and deserved for authority through age, by the mere fact that God has allowed and maintained a person on this earth into his older years.
If God sees fit to keep someone around, then we can only respect His decision and reasons, and their receipt of such blessing.
There is nothing to be gained by being disrespectful of ones elders, and everything to be gained through being respectful and polite, even if you disagree with their views.
Saturday, February 2, 2008
Job 32:3
This study is from an on going online Daily Bible Study at:
DailyBibleStudy.Org | Daily Bible Study Index Page | Daily Bible Study Online E-Book Library
Job 32:3
3 Also against his three [shalowsh] friends [rea`] was his wrath ['aph] kindled [charah], because they had found [matsa'] no answer [ma`aneh], and yet had condemned [rasha`] Job ['Iyowb]. KJV-Interlinear
3 And his anger burned against his three friends because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job. NASB
All that Elihu heard from Job, was his impression that Job was speaking reverently about himself. All Elihu heard from the three friends was their accusations against Job, their failure to prove their accusations, and then their inability to provide proof, as well as their refusal to withdraw their accusations, given that they could not prove or support their accusations against Job.
Job has spoken the truth throughout this book. Our proof as to Jobs character was provided in chapter one, by God Himself. Likewise we when we get to chapter 42, then we will see that God will further state that Job is the only one who has spoken truly.
Elihu is going to try the impartial party approach. And he, like the three friends, has a great deal of doctrinal knowledge, but he also like the three friends, lacks some specific understanding with which to reach the proper conclusions.
He is younger, but not wiser. He will presume that since the three friends have failed, then it is up to him, to solve the stalemate.
The three friends did not get their desired confession out of Job. But then they were not entitled to one anyway.
In all things, confession is between God (the Father) and the individual. It is no one else's concern or business. Only the Father can forgive and restore one into fellowship. No human being, certainly no priest, pastor, or whatever, can forgive and obtain restoration into fellowship for someone else other than himself or herself.
In the spiritual life, each individual must deal with God, through Christ. There is no other power, no other position, no other office in heaven or on this earth that can function as an intermediary between you and God.
Elihu will demonstrate a great deal of respect and politeness but once you get beyond his polite exterior, he will still impose his opinion on everyone else, just as a do-gooder would.
Out of courtesy, the others will allow him to rant on, and then promptly ignore his words.
DailyBibleStudy.Org | Daily Bible Study Index Page | Daily Bible Study Online E-Book Library
Job 32:3
3 Also against his three [shalowsh] friends [rea`] was his wrath ['aph] kindled [charah], because they had found [matsa'] no answer [ma`aneh], and yet had condemned [rasha`] Job ['Iyowb]. KJV-Interlinear
3 And his anger burned against his three friends because they had found no answer, and yet had condemned Job. NASB
All that Elihu heard from Job, was his impression that Job was speaking reverently about himself. All Elihu heard from the three friends was their accusations against Job, their failure to prove their accusations, and then their inability to provide proof, as well as their refusal to withdraw their accusations, given that they could not prove or support their accusations against Job.
Job has spoken the truth throughout this book. Our proof as to Jobs character was provided in chapter one, by God Himself. Likewise we when we get to chapter 42, then we will see that God will further state that Job is the only one who has spoken truly.
Elihu is going to try the impartial party approach. And he, like the three friends, has a great deal of doctrinal knowledge, but he also like the three friends, lacks some specific understanding with which to reach the proper conclusions.
He is younger, but not wiser. He will presume that since the three friends have failed, then it is up to him, to solve the stalemate.
The three friends did not get their desired confession out of Job. But then they were not entitled to one anyway.
In all things, confession is between God (the Father) and the individual. It is no one else's concern or business. Only the Father can forgive and restore one into fellowship. No human being, certainly no priest, pastor, or whatever, can forgive and obtain restoration into fellowship for someone else other than himself or herself.
In the spiritual life, each individual must deal with God, through Christ. There is no other power, no other position, no other office in heaven or on this earth that can function as an intermediary between you and God.
Elihu will demonstrate a great deal of respect and politeness but once you get beyond his polite exterior, he will still impose his opinion on everyone else, just as a do-gooder would.
Out of courtesy, the others will allow him to rant on, and then promptly ignore his words.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Job 32:2
This study is from an on going online Daily Bible Study at:
DailyBibleStudy.Org | Daily Bible Study Index Page | Daily Bible Study Online E-Book Library
Job 32:2
2 Then was kindled [charah] the wrath ['aph] of Elihu ['Eliyhuw] the son [ben] of Barachel [Barak'el] the Buzite [Buwziy], of the kindred [mishpachah] of Ram [Ram]: against Job ['Iyowb] was his wrath ['aph] kindled [charah], because he justified [tsadaq] himself [nephesh] rather than God ['elohiym]. KJV-Interlinear
2 But the anger of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram burned; against Job his anger burned, because he justified himself before God. NASB
The anger mentioned here is more of frustration.
Elihu is now introduced as the fifth participant of this conversation. He later mentions that he is considerably younger than the others and thus we presume that he may be half their age. But that is obviously a guess.
If the others were in the hundred-year age bracket, then someone who is ninety or eighty or even seventy would not consider himself considerably younger. But someone who is fifty or younger, certainly would.
The name 'Elihu' means 'the God of Him,' 'Who is God,' 'He is my God.' This is a reference to the personal name of God, rather than the general name of a deity. Elihu was a common name used throughout the Old Testament.
Elihu was the son of Barachel, of the Buzite group, of the family of Ram. Beyond this genealogy, nothing more is mentioned. Most commentators presume that 'Buzite' means Buz the second son of Nahor, the brother of Abraham. But the references to the different family lines, namely Barachel and Ram, makes this relationship impossible. Nothing more is mentioned about Barachel or Ram, so their ancestry is not known.
If Elihu's ancestry was important, then God would have made certain that it was better referenced in this book, but since it was not, then there is some other reason for mentioning the ancestry of the youngest of these participants.
Barachel means 'God has blessed.' Buzite means 'disrespect, despised, shamed, contempt, or one who has come from shame or contempt.' Ram means 'to bring up, presumptuous, haughty, extol, lofty, exalted.'
So the chain of Elihu's ancestry comes to mean, one who had been presumptuous or self-exalted, and has therefore been generally shamed or despised, has been blessed regardless of their past, by He who is God.
He who is God, is He who has no name, at this time in history, and is a personal reference to Jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity, the same as the redeemer and the advocate mentioned earlier by Job.
Elihu will make a number of arguments in his speech, but when all is said and done, he will have nothing significant to add to the debate, except for his disgust that Job does not repent and that God is so great that nothing can be understood about Him.
In addition to this, we can learn that God was on the minds of a large portion of the ancient world. This is obvious by virtue of the meanings of the names used, but what is more important, people back in those ancient times, knew God by reference to His personal character rather than as some ambiguous super being.
DailyBibleStudy.Org | Daily Bible Study Index Page | Daily Bible Study Online E-Book Library
Job 32:2
2 Then was kindled [charah] the wrath ['aph] of Elihu ['Eliyhuw] the son [ben] of Barachel [Barak'el] the Buzite [Buwziy], of the kindred [mishpachah] of Ram [Ram]: against Job ['Iyowb] was his wrath ['aph] kindled [charah], because he justified [tsadaq] himself [nephesh] rather than God ['elohiym]. KJV-Interlinear
2 But the anger of Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite, of the family of Ram burned; against Job his anger burned, because he justified himself before God. NASB
The anger mentioned here is more of frustration.
Elihu is now introduced as the fifth participant of this conversation. He later mentions that he is considerably younger than the others and thus we presume that he may be half their age. But that is obviously a guess.
If the others were in the hundred-year age bracket, then someone who is ninety or eighty or even seventy would not consider himself considerably younger. But someone who is fifty or younger, certainly would.
The name 'Elihu' means 'the God of Him,' 'Who is God,' 'He is my God.' This is a reference to the personal name of God, rather than the general name of a deity. Elihu was a common name used throughout the Old Testament.
Elihu was the son of Barachel, of the Buzite group, of the family of Ram. Beyond this genealogy, nothing more is mentioned. Most commentators presume that 'Buzite' means Buz the second son of Nahor, the brother of Abraham. But the references to the different family lines, namely Barachel and Ram, makes this relationship impossible. Nothing more is mentioned about Barachel or Ram, so their ancestry is not known.
If Elihu's ancestry was important, then God would have made certain that it was better referenced in this book, but since it was not, then there is some other reason for mentioning the ancestry of the youngest of these participants.
Barachel means 'God has blessed.' Buzite means 'disrespect, despised, shamed, contempt, or one who has come from shame or contempt.' Ram means 'to bring up, presumptuous, haughty, extol, lofty, exalted.'
So the chain of Elihu's ancestry comes to mean, one who had been presumptuous or self-exalted, and has therefore been generally shamed or despised, has been blessed regardless of their past, by He who is God.
He who is God, is He who has no name, at this time in history, and is a personal reference to Jesus Christ, the second person of the Trinity, the same as the redeemer and the advocate mentioned earlier by Job.
Elihu will make a number of arguments in his speech, but when all is said and done, he will have nothing significant to add to the debate, except for his disgust that Job does not repent and that God is so great that nothing can be understood about Him.
In addition to this, we can learn that God was on the minds of a large portion of the ancient world. This is obvious by virtue of the meanings of the names used, but what is more important, people back in those ancient times, knew God by reference to His personal character rather than as some ambiguous super being.
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