Job
This book is so called from Job, whose prosperity, afflictions, and restoration, are here recorded.
He lived soon after Abraham, or perhaps before that patriarch. Most likely it was written by Job
himself, and it is the most ancient book in existence. The instructions to be learned from the patience
of Job, and from his trials, are as useful now, and as much needed as ever. We live under the same
Providence, we have the same chastening Father, and there is the same need for correction unto
righteousness. The fortitude and patience of Job, though not small, gave way in his severe troubles;
but his faith was fixed upon the coming of his Redeemer, and this gave him stedfastness and
constancy, though every other dependence, particularly the pride and boast of a self-righteous spirit,
was tried and consumed. Another great doctrine of the faith, particularly set forth in the book of
Job, is that of Providence. It is plain, from this history, that the Lord watched over his servant Job
with the affection of a wise and loving father.
Chapter 1
Chapter Outline
The piety and prosperity of Job. (1–5)
Satan obtains leave to try Job. (6–12)
The loss of Job's property, and the death of (13–19)
his children.
Job's patience and piety. (20–22)Verses 1–5
Job was prosperous, and yet pious. Though it is hard and rare, it is not impossible for a rich
man to enter into the kingdom of heaven. By God's grace the temptations of worldly wealth may
be overcome. The account of Job's piety and prosperity comes before the history of his great
afflictions, showing that neither will secure from troubles. While Job beheld the harmony and
comforts of his sons with satisfaction, his knowledge of the human heart made him fearful for them.
He sent and sanctified them, reminding them to examine themselves, to confess their sins, to seek
forgiveness; and as one who hoped for acceptance with God through the promised Saviour, he
offered a burnt-offering for each. We perceive his care for their souls, his knowledge of the sinful
state of man, his entire dependence on God's mercy in the way he had appointed.
Verses 6–12
Job's afflictions began from the malice of Satan, by the Lord's permission, for wise and holy
purposes. There is an evil spirit, the enemy of God, and of all righteousness, who is continually
seeking to distress, to lead astray, and, if possible, to destroy those who love God. How far his
influence may extend, we cannot say; but probably much unsteadiness and unhappiness in Christians