Though his sons are many, they are destined for the sword; and his offspring will never have enough food. If his sons are multipliedThe phrase begins with a conditional "if," suggesting a hypothetical situation. The Hebrew root for "sons" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which often signifies not just male children but descendants or progeny in general. In the ancient Near Eastern context, having many sons was considered a blessing and a sign of divine favor. However, Job is highlighting a paradox where what is typically seen as a blessing becomes a potential curse. This reflects the broader theme of the book of Job, where conventional wisdom about prosperity and divine favor is challenged. it is for the sword and his offspring will never have enough food Persons / Places / Events 1. JobA man described as blameless and upright, who feared God and shunned evil. He is the central figure in the Book of Job, enduring immense suffering and loss. 2. Job's Friends Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who visit Job to offer counsel and comfort but often end up accusing him of wrongdoing. 3. The Land of Uz The setting of the Book of Job, traditionally considered to be in the region of Edom or northern Arabia. 4. Job's Children Initially, Job had ten children who perished in a tragic accident, and here he speaks hypothetically about the fate of the wicked's offspring. 5. The Sword A symbol of violence and judgment, often used in the Bible to represent divine retribution or warfare. Teaching Points The Consequences of WickednessThe verse highlights the sobering reality that the actions of the wicked can have dire consequences for their descendants. It serves as a warning to live righteously and consider the legacy we leave behind. Divine Justice God's justice is impartial and extends beyond the individual to their lineage. This should encourage believers to trust in God's righteous judgment, even when it seems delayed. The Importance of Spiritual Heritage While material wealth and offspring are often seen as blessings, this verse reminds us that spiritual heritage and righteousness are of greater value and lasting impact. The Role of Suffering in Understanding God Job's discourse, including this verse, is part of his struggle to understand suffering and divine justice. It encourages believers to seek God earnestly in times of trial and to trust His wisdom. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Job 27:14 challenge our understanding of generational blessings and curses in the Bible?2. In what ways can we ensure that we are leaving a positive spiritual legacy for our descendants? 3. How does the concept of divine justice in Job 27:14 relate to the New Testament teachings on judgment and grace? 4. What can we learn from Job's perspective on suffering and justice that can be applied to our own experiences of hardship? 5. How do other scriptures, such as Psalm 37:28 and Proverbs 11:21, reinforce the message found in Job 27:14 about the fate of the wicked and their offspring? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 37:28This verse speaks of the Lord's protection over the righteous and the cutting off of the descendants of the wicked, echoing the theme of divine justice found in Job 27:14. Proverbs 11:21 This proverb assures that the wicked will not go unpunished, and their offspring will not escape judgment, similar to Job's assertion about the fate of the wicked's children. Isaiah 14:21 This passage calls for the preparation of slaughter for the children of evildoers, reinforcing the idea that the consequences of sin can extend to one's descendants.
People JobPlaces UzTopics Bread, Descendants, Destined, Eat, Fate, Increased, Multiplied, Multiply, Offspring, Satisfied, Sons, Sword, ThoughDictionary of Bible Themes Job 27:13-14Library The Touchstone of Godly SincerityWho, then, is this "wicked man," thus portrayed before us? And what are the first symptoms of his depravity? We ask not the question idly, but in order that we take heed against the uprise of such an evil in ourselves. "Beneath the saintly veil the votary of sin May lurk unseen; and to that eye alone Which penetrates the heart, may stand revealed." The hypocrite is very often an exceedingly neat imitation of the Christian. To the common observer he is so good a counterfeit that he entirely escapes … Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 17: 1871 Whether Hypocrisy is Contrary to the virtue of Truth? On the Interior Man Wesley in St. Albans Abbey The Work of Jesus Christ as an Advocate, The Sinner Arraigned and Convicted. God's Sovereignty and Prayer Job Links Job 27:14 NIVJob 27:14 NLT Job 27:14 ESV Job 27:14 NASB Job 27:14 KJV Job 27:14 Commentaries Bible Hub |