Verses 1–4
Eliphaz considers that, because Job complained so much of his afflictions, he thought God was
unjust in afflicting him; but Job was far from thinking so. What Eliphaz says, is unjustly applied
to Job, but it is very true, that when God does us good it is not because he is indebted to us. Man's
piety is no profit to God, no gain. The gains of religion to men are infinitely greater than the losses
of it. God is a Sovereign, who gives no account of his conduct; but he is perfectly wise, just, faithful,
good, and merciful. He approves the likeness of his own holiness, and delights in the fruits of his
Spirit; he accepts the thankful services of the humble believer, while he rejects the proud claim of
the self-confident.
Verses 5–14
Eliphaz brought heavy charges against Job, without reason for his accusations, except that Job
was visited as he supposed God always visited every wicked man. He charges him with oppression,
and that he did harm with his wealth and power in the time of his prosperity.
Verses 15–20
Eliphaz would have Job mark the old way that wicked men have trodden, and see what the end
of their way was. It is good for us to mark it, that we may not walk therein. But if others are
consumed, and we are not, instead of blaming them, and lifting up ourselves, as Eliphaz does here,
we ought to be thankful to God, and take it for a warning.
Verses 21–30
The answer of Eliphaz wrongly implied that Job had hitherto not known God, and that prosperity
in this life would follow his sincere conversion. The counsel Eliphaz here gives is good, though,
as to Job, it was built upon a false supposition that he was a stranger and enemy to God. Let us
beware of slandering our brethren; and if it be our lot to suffer in this manner, let us remember how
Job was treated; yea, how Jesus was reviled, that we may be patient. Let us examine whether there
may not be some colour for the slander, and walk watchfully, so as to be clear of all appearances
of evil.
Chapter 23
Chapter Outline
Job complains that God has withdrawn. (1–7)
He asserts his own integrity. (8–12)
The Divine terrors. (13–17)