The life of man may fitly be compared to the waters of a land flood, which spread far, but soon dry
up. All Job's expressions here show his belief in the great doctrine of the resurrection. Job's friends
proving miserable comforters, he pleases himself with the expectation of a change. If our sins are
forgiven, and our hearts renewed to holiness, heaven will be the rest of our souls, while our bodies
are hidden in the grave from the malice of our enemies, feeling no more pain from our corruptions,
or our corrections.
Verses 16–22
Job's faith and hope spake, and grace appeared to revive; but depravity again prevailed. He
represents God as carrying matters to extremity against him. The Lord must prevail against all who
contend with him. God may send disease and pain, we may lose all comfort in those near and dear
to us, every hope of earthly happiness may be destroyed, but God will receive the believer into
realms of eternal happiness. But what a change awaits the prosperous unbeliever! How will he
answer when God shall call him to his tribunal? The Lord is yet upon a mercy-seat, ready to be
gracious. Oh that sinners would be wise, that they would consider their latter end! While man's
flesh is upon him, that is, the body he is so loth to lay down, it shall have pain; and while his soul
is within him, that is, the spirit he is so loth to resign, it shall mourn. Dying work is hard work;
dying pangs often are sore pangs. It is folly for men to defer repentance to a death-bed, and to have
that to do which is the one thing needful, when unfit to do anything.
Chapter 15
Chapter Outline
Eliphaz reproves Job. (1–16)
The unquietness of wicked men. (17–35)Verses 1–16
Eliphaz begins a second attack upon Job, instead of being softened by his complaints. He
unjustly charges Job with casting off the fear of God, and all regard to him, and restraining prayer.
See in what religion is summed up, fearing God, and praying to him; the former the most needful
principle, the latter the most needful practice. Eliphaz charges Job with self-conceit. He charges
him with contempt of the counsels and comforts given him by his friends. We are apt to think that
which we ourselves say is important, when others, with reason, think little of it. He charges him
with opposition to God. Eliphaz ought not to have put harsh constructions upon the words of one
well known for piety, and now in temptation. It is plain that these disputants were deeply convinced
of the doctrine of original sin, and the total depravity of human nature. Shall we not admire the
patience of God in bearing with us? and still more his love to us in the redemption of Christ Jesus
his beloved Son?