The Man from Proverbs

Job 1

Context
"The land of Uz" is unidentified in ancient literature, and may be fictional. There are hints in the book that might indicate it is a parable and not intended to be read as history. (This doesn't imply that the author is "lying" - remember that the Bible is a collection of books without title pages telling us whether each book is a novella, news report, poetry collection, etc. When God came to earth in Jesus, he told a lot of stories in order to teach.)

“Satan” is the Hebrew word for “adversary.” In Jesus' day, the term "satan" was often used to refer to the Devil, God's adversary; but in Job, the adversary is not described as ruler of hell. Instead, “the adversary” walks about on the earth, and then goes and talks with God and other beings in heaven. Try reading “the adversary” in place of “Satan” in this story.

The book of Job is clearly a counterpoint to the Proverbs. There are many different voices within it, each arguing for their own viewpoint. Be careful of coming to quick conclusions. I often seen verses from Job on posters in church buildings - verses that God later states "do not speak of Me what is right."

Listening to the Writer
Verses 1-5 present a poster child for the book of Proverbs. Is Job a “good” man or a “bad” man? Is he appropriately rewarded?

What does the adversary prompt Job's behavior? What is the bet that he makes with God?

Job has a seriously bad day. What is his response?

Listening to God
Have you known anyone like Job—someone who seems to always be trying to do what is right, for self, for God, for family, and who has a life filled with good things?

God seems pretty pleased with Job. Think of a time when God has been pretty pleased with you.

The adversary says “Of course Job is wonderful: you make life too easy for him.” Does this hit home for you? How many of your “good deeds” are done for your own benefit?

God gives the adversary power to kill Job’s children and his property. Do you think God "allows" people (like terrorists) and spiritual beings the freedom and power to hurt others? Is this right? Why would God do such a thing?

In Job, God’s reason for allowing the adversary to cause pain is a kind of cosmic bet, a test to see why Job behaves righteously. Does thinking of the pain in your life as a test of your integrity bring you comfort or frustration?

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