Job - Introduction

The book of Job is a book that deals with the problem of suffering in this life. Many things happen to us that are difficult and hard, to which there are no clear answers. Job teaches us that even the righteous will have trials, troubles, and tribulations. It also illustrates the limits of human reasoning and counsel to try and figure out the answers to the 'why' of human suffering. In the end, God is exalted and Job is humbled, but the answer to the why is not given. The account is filled with passion and struggles that many of us, on some level, can identify with. Job is the first of several Old Testament books that are consider 'Poetical Books' because of the style in which it is written. It is also suggested that Job may have lived during the time period covered in Genesis 1-11. That means he would have lived before Abraham and may help us to understand the mindsets of him and his friends.

Theme: Knowing God through Suffering

Key Verses:  19:25-26; 23:10

Outline:

 i.   Job is Tested 1-2
 ii.  Job Speaks 3
 iii. Job is Counseled 4-37
 iv. The Lord Speaks 38-41
 v.  Job is Silenced and Blessed 42