Job 33:1-33
Q.1. What gave Elihu the right to speak? How had he interpreted Job’s searching? How does God communicate with man, according to Elihu? – (Job 33:1-18)
Elihu claimed that his response was sincere, and – 4 “The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life … 6 “Behold, I belong to God like you; I too have been formed out of the clay (Job 33:4 & 6). Job had tried to point out that he could not think of any reason for his loss of family, wealth, and health – an unimaginable loss. However, his friends, including Elihu, interpreted his responses as arrogant, because like everyone, he too was an imperfect sinner (Job 33:8-12). He had expressed the pain of not getting an answer or explanation, but he was reviled, and told that the reason for his suffering was because of his wickedness and pride. Elihu contended that God does not give an account of His actions, although at times He may terrify us with dreams and forewarnings. Besides, He often keeps man from destruction (Job 33:13-18).
Q.2. How did Elihu view life? On what basis will God answer and restore a person? What point was Elihu trying to make to Job? – (Job 33:19-33)
God may be experienced by those suffering sickness or old age (Job 33:19-22). God may send an angel, messenger, or mediator – … to remind a man what is right for him (Job 33:23). If the person repents, God may be gracious and provide the redemption price to restore him (Job 33:24-27). God operated this way more than two or three times (Job 33:29). He asked the suffering Job to give him an answer, while also telling him to hold his peace (Job 33:30-33). However, what Elihu said was too general, and failed to address the unique circumstances that Job was experiencing.