"When he has tested me, I shall come forth as gold" (Job 23:10).
Chapter 22 Eliphaz makes a considerable point: God is never indebted to man (v.2-3). He does not depend on our obedience, yet He requires it and is well pleased by it. Eliphaz cannot believe that hardships may have a gracious design to them (v.4), so he concludes once again that Job's hardship is punishment. Verses 6-11 are an example of one man assuming the worst about another. Eliphaz is now bearing false witness, yet we can still salvage and make good use of some of his doctrine. For instance, the omniscience of God is a great encouragement to sanctity and deterrent to sin (vs.12-18). Eliphaz concludes with a passionate exhortation to "return to the Almighty" (vs.21-30), although he promises too much on God's behalf (v.28).
Chapter 23 Job does not angrily defend himself; he makes his appeal to God (vs.1-7). His bold desire to appear before God anticipates the liberty that we have in Christ to approach the throne of grace (Heb. 4:15-16). Job marvels at the nature of God who is everywhere yet invisible (v.8-9). Job cannot understand God's works, but he knows that his affliction will be for his refinement. It only remains to Job to remain faithful (vs.11-12). At first Job longed for God's presence, but now, when he considers how powerful and sovereign God is, he is overcome by fear (vs.13-17). Job's boldness of faith is tempered with due respect for God's power and majesty.
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