Ep. 128. Job Part 1 | In Heaven

EPISODE 128

IN HEAVEN: JOB PART 1

Job is often considered the oldest book of the Bible. The debate goes back and forth between Genesis and Job, but I land on the Job side. Job is an interesting book for a few reasons. First of all, some people believe that the opening two chapters are just a play and that those events didn't actually happen. Some argue it is just an allegory, a piece of creative storytelling. I'm afraid I have to disagree with that view. We are being given some insight into the things of heaven. It seems similar to the vision Micaiah has in 1 Kings 22. Second, some people believe that Job's entire book is just a play written as a cautionary tale; they don't think there is any historical truth to it, and Job is just a stand-in for humanity. That argument is ridiculous since Job is mentioned outside the book of Job. Ezekiel mentions Job alongside Noah and Daniel, and we certainly would not argue that either of those two men is just a figurehead for humanity. James uses Job as an encouragement to the believer to persevere in trials. So then I can't come to the place where I relegate Job to a character in a play. 

As to these opening chapters: why does God point out Job? I don't know. How often do the "sons of God" gather to present themselves to the Lord? I have no idea. Does Satan always have to ask permission to do these sorts of things? I couldn't tell you. 

I think it is essential that we don't try to draw sweeping conclusions from these opening chapters but instead use them as bits of information that give us more insight into the mysteries of God's presence. 

I also think it is important to note that though Job does not curse God in the first week of these trials, he eventually charges God with fault. At least God will ask him, "Will you really condemn me to justify yourself?" 

Can we also acknowledge that Job's wife wasn't very helpful? Do better, Job's wife! 

Job lost everything except a few servants and a contentious wife, but at the end of the story, he will know God more completely (possibly coming to salvation) and will be restored to his place of prominence. 

ADDITIONAL READING: 1 Kings 22:19-23; 1 Samuel 16: 14-16; Ezekiel 14:14,20; James 5:11