Foothill Church Sermons Foothill Church

Elihu should be heeded because he is never rebuked by God and adds insights about suffering that Job and his friends had not considered. He teaches that suffering can reveal the sin within us and that God uses suffering not as punishment but as a refinement of righteousness, aiming to protect, not destroy.

Elihu argues that Job's suffering isn't a result of his sin but has caused him to sin in his thoughts and words about God, which is a major concern. It's crucial to understand and accurately portray God, as He wants to be known as He truly is, revealed in Scripture, influencing every aspect of our lives.

By some, Elihu is seen as arrogant and dismissive, while others argue he brings fresh insights, highlighting the role of suffering in revealing and provoking sin. Elihu emphasizes the importance of God's word over human wisdom, urging readers to seek wisdom from Scripture rather than secular or cultural voices.

Some religious leaders tested Jesus, asking the greatest commandment. Jesus replied, "Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind. Love your neighbor as yourself." This summarizes the Old Testament message: love for God and others. Job, without the Old Testament, understood and lived this, as seen in Job 31, aligning with the Ten Commandments. His claims reflect a truth for all Christians: a life of love for God and others.

All suffering is costly, but God promises to use it for the good of those who love him. When suffering is undeserved, purposed for the sake of someone or something else, and it brings glory to God—it becomes redemptive.

Job 29 reflects on hindsight and the longing for past wisdom and friendship with God. It emphasizes Job's desire to return to a time of spiritual vitality and wisdom, challenging listeners to aspire to a life that finishes well, caring for others with both practical and wise words.