◄ Job 33 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Elihu Rebukes Job 1“But now, O Job, hear my speech, and listen to all my words. 2Behold, I will open my mouth; my address is on the tip of my tongue. 3My words are from an upright heart, and my lips speak sincerely what I know. 4The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life. 5Refute me if you can; prepare your case and confront me. 6I am just like you before God; I was also formed from clay. 7Surely no fear of me should terrify you; nor will my hand be heavy upon you. 8Surely you have spoken in my hearing, and I have heard these very words: 9‘I am pure, without transgression; I am clean, with no iniquity in me. 10Yet God finds occasions against me; He counts me as His enemy. 11He puts my feet in the stocks; He watches over all my paths.’ 12Behold, you are not right in this matter. I will answer you, for God is greater than man. 13Why do you complain to Him that He answers nothing a man asks?a 14For God speaks in one way and in another, yet no one notices. 15In a dream, in a vision in the night, when deep sleep falls upon men as they slumber on their beds, 16He opens their ears and terrifies them with warnings 17to turn a man from wrongdoing and keep him from pride, 18to preserve his soul from the Pit and his life from perishing by the sword. 19A man is also chastened on his bed with pain and constant distress in his bones, 20so that he detests his bread, and his soul loathes his favorite food. 21His flesh wastes away from sight, and his hidden bones protrude. 22He draws near to the Pit, and his life to the messengers of death. 23Yet if there is a messenger on his side, one mediator in a thousand, to tell a man what is right for him, 24to be gracious to him and say, ‘Spare him from going down to the Pit; I have found his ransom,’ 25then his flesh is refreshed like a child’s; he returns to the days of his youth. 26He prays to God and finds favor; he sees God’s face and shouts for joy, and God restores His righteousness to that man. 27Then he sings beforeb men with these words: ‘I have sinned and perverted what was right; yet I did not get what I deserved. 28He redeemed my soul from going down to the Pit, and I will live to see the light.’ 29Behold, all these things God does to a man, two or even three times, 30to bring back his soul from the Pit, that he may be enlightened with the light of life. 31Pay attention, Job, and listen to me; be silent, and I will speak. 32But if you have something to say, answer me; speak up, for I would like to vindicate you. 33But if not, then listen to me; be quiet, and I will teach you wisdom.” Footnotes: 13 a Or that He answers for none of His actions 27 b Or Then he looks upon Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Job 33 Summary Elihu Rebukes Job Verses 1–7 – Elihu Appeals for Job’s Attention Elihu, younger than the three friends, respectfully asks Job to listen. He reminds Job that he speaks sincerely—“My words come from an upright heart” (v.3)—and that both he and Job share the same God-given breath (v.4). Because of that equality, Job need not fear him (v.7). Verses 8–13 – Confronting Job’s Charge of Unfairness Quoting Job’s own words, Elihu says, “You say, ‘I am pure, without transgression… yet He finds occasion against me’” (vv.9–11). Elihu insists that in claiming God treats him like an enemy, Job has accused God of injustice (v.12). God’s ways, Elihu argues, are always right. Verses 14–18 – God Speaks through Dreams and Warnings Elihu claims God answers people “once, or twice, yet no one notices” (v.14). He mentions night-visions that warn a person to turn from pride and keep his soul from the pit (vv.15–18). Verses 19–28 – Suffering as God’s Rescue Operation Pain on a sickbed (v.19) can be God’s alert. If a “messenger… one mediator in a thousand” intercedes (v.23), God is gracious, says, “Deliver him… I have found a ransom,” and restores the sufferer’s flesh “like a child’s” (vv.24–25). The rescued person testifies, “He redeemed my soul from going down to the pit” (v.28). Verses 29–33 – Elihu’s Closing Call to Listen Elihu stresses that God works these things “two or three times with a man” to bring him back to light (vv.29–30). He invites Job to respond: “Speak, for I desire to justify you. … If not, listen to me” (vv.32–33). In Job 33, we see a compelling response from Elihu to Job's ongoing struggle. After listening to Job's laments and the inadequate responses of his friends, Elihu steps forward with a fresh perspective. He places a significant emphasis on the role of a divine mediator and underscores the powerful ways God communicates, often through adversity. Setting and Context Job 33 is the first full speech of Elihu (32:6–37:24). It bridges the stalemate between Job and the three older friends. The chapter sits between Job’s last protest of innocence (chs. 29–31) and God’s whirlwind reply (chs. 38–41). By stressing God’s corrective purposes in suffering, Elihu paves the way for the LORD’s own words. Elihu’s Role in the Dialogue • Fresh Voice: Elihu claims neither Job’s innocence nor the friends’ blanket guilt theory is complete. • Bridge Builder: He introduces themes—God’s nearness, instructive suffering, a mediator—that the divine speeches will confirm. • Respectful yet Forthright: He calls Job “my brother” (v.6, implied by “also formed out of clay”) but still challenges him. Key Themes in the Chapter 1. God Initiates Communication – vv.14-16 2. Suffering Can Be Protective – vv.17-18, 29-30 3. A Mediator and Ransom Are Available – vv.23-24 4. Restoration Is Possible – vv.25-28 5. Humble Listening Is Required – vv.31-33 God’s Communication Methods in Scripture • Dreams and Visions: Genesis 37:5; Matthew 2:13. • Conscience and Inner Promptings: Romans 2:15. • Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16. • Pain and Hardship: Psalm 119:67; Hebrews 12:5-11. Job 33 affirms that God is not silent; people often fail to notice His voice. Suffering, Discipline, and Restoration Elihu sees pain not as proof of God’s anger but of His fatherly correction. Compare: • Psalm 119:71 —“It was good for me to be afflicted, that I might learn Your statutes.” • John 15:2 —Every fruitful branch is pruned to bear more fruit. The goal is rescue from the “pit” (death, ruin) and reunion with “the light of life” (v.30). The Mediator in Verse 23 “Yet if there is a messenger for him, a mediator, one among a thousand…” • Points forward to the ultimate Mediator, Jesus—“For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 2:5). • Anticipates intercessory figures such as Moses (Exodus 32:30-32) and the Angel of the LORD (Judges 13:18-22). • The “ransom” (v.24) echoes Isaiah 53:5,11 and Matthew 20:28. Archaeological and Cultural Insights • Ancient Near Eastern dream manuals—from Mesopotamia’s city of Mari—show that people expected divine messages at night, matching vv.15-16. • Medical texts from Egypt describe wasting diseases and emaciation (v.21). Physicians tried remedies, but Elihu sees the cure in God’s mercy. • Clay figurines from the period remind us of v.6: “I too was pinched off from clay.” The verse underscores shared human weakness. Connections to Other Scriptures • Job’s complaint of innocence (v.9) parallels Jeremiah 2:35, where Israel says, “I am innocent.” • God “accounts a man as righteous” (v.26) anticipates Genesis 15:6 and Romans 4:3. • “Deliver him… I have found a ransom” (v.24) foreshadows redemption language in Titus 2:14. Practical Application for Today • Listen for God in unexpected ways—He still speaks through Scripture, conscience, circumstances, and wise voices. • View hardship as God’s invitation to deeper dependence, not as proof of rejection. • Seek the Mediator—Jesus—who provides the final ransom and restores our relationship with God. • Offer empathy when others suffer; like Elihu, speak truth with humility, remembering we too are made of clay. Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. Hebrews 12:5-6 And you have forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons: 'My son, do not take lightly the discipline of the Lord, and do not lose heart when He rebukes you. For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives.' James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. Teaching Points Elihu's Introduction and Humility Elihu begins by acknowledging his youth and the wisdom of the older men, yet he feels compelled to speak because he believes he has insight from God. But it is the spirit in a man, the breath of the Almighty, that gives him understanding (Job 33:4). God's Communication Elihu emphasizes that God speaks in various ways, though people may not perceive it. For God speaks in one way and in another, yet no one notices (Job 33:14). Purpose of Suffering Elihu suggests that suffering can be a means of correction and instruction from God. He keeps back his soul from the Pit, and his life from perishing by the sword (Job 33:18). God's Redemption Elihu highlights God's willingness to redeem and restore those who turn to Him. He prays to God and finds favor; he sees God’s face and shouts for joy, and God restores his righteousness to that man (Job 33:26). Practical Applications Listening for God's Voice Be attentive to the various ways God may be speaking to you, whether through Scripture, prayer, or the counsel of others. Understanding Suffering Reflect on your own experiences of suffering and consider how they might be opportunities for growth and deeper reliance on God. Seeking Redemption Embrace the hope of redemption and restoration that God offers, and seek His face in times of trouble. Humility in Counsel When offering advice or counsel to others, approach the situation with humility and a willingness to listen, recognizing that God can use anyone to convey His truth. People 1. Elihu Elihu is the speaker in Job 33. He is one of Job's friends who has waited to speak after Job's three other friends have finished their discourse. Elihu is described as being younger than the other friends, and he expresses a desire to speak on God's behalf and to offer a different perspective on Job's suffering. In Job 33:1, Elihu addresses Job directly: "But now, Job, hear my speech, and listen to all my words." 2. Job Job is the central figure in the Book of Job, known for his suffering and his quest for understanding the reasons behind it. In this chapter, Elihu addresses Job directly, attempting to provide insight into God's ways and to correct what he perceives as Job's misunderstandings. Elihu refers to Job in verses such as Job 33:31: "Pay attention, Job, and listen to me; be silent, and I will speak." In this chapter, Elihu emphasizes that God communicates with humans in various ways, including through dreams and suffering, to turn them away from wrongdoing and to save them from pride. The Hebrew roots in this chapter often highlight themes of wisdom, understanding, and divine communication. Places In Job 33, there are no specific geographical places mentioned. The chapter is part of a discourse by Elihu, who addresses Job and speaks about God's ways of communicating with humans. The focus is on spiritual and moral themes rather than physical locations. Therefore, there are no places to list from Job 33 in the Berean Standard Bible or any other translation. Events 1. Elihu's Invitation to Listen Elihu begins by inviting Job to listen to his words, emphasizing his sincerity and the purity of his speech. He states, "But now, Job, hear my speech, and listen to all my words" (Job 33:1). The Hebrew root for "hear" (שָׁמַע, shama) implies attentive listening, indicating Elihu's desire for Job to fully consider his arguments. 2. Elihu's Claim of Integrity Elihu asserts his integrity and the truthfulness of his words, claiming that his speech is guided by the Spirit of God. He says, "The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life" (Job 33:4). The Hebrew word for "breath" (נְשָׁמָה, neshamah) is often associated with the divine inspiration and life-giving force. 3. Elihu's Assurance of Fairness Elihu assures Job that he will not be harsh or unjust, inviting Job to respond if he can. He states, "Surely you have spoken in my hearing, and I have heard these very words" (Job 33:8). This reflects Elihu's commitment to fairness and understanding in his discourse with Job. 4. Elihu's Rebuttal of Job's Claims Elihu addresses Job's claims of innocence and God's perceived silence, arguing that God does speak in various ways. He says, "For God speaks in one way and in another, yet no one notices" (Job 33:14). The Hebrew root for "speaks" (דָּבַר, dabar) underscores the active communication of God, even if it is not always perceived. 5. God's Communication through Dreams and Visions Elihu explains that God communicates through dreams and visions to turn people from wrongdoing and to preserve them from pride. He describes, "In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls upon men as they slumber on their beds" (Job 33:15). The Hebrew word for "vision" (חֲזוֹן, chazon) indicates a divine revelation or insight. 6. God's Discipline and Instruction Elihu highlights that God uses suffering as a form of discipline to instruct and save individuals from the pit. He notes, "He is chastened on a bed of pain with constant distress in his bones" (Job 33:19). The Hebrew root for "chastened" (יָסַר, yasar) conveys the idea of correction and instruction. 7. The Role of a Mediator Elihu introduces the concept of a mediator who can intercede on behalf of a person, leading to their restoration and redemption. He states, "Yet if there is a messenger on his side, one mediator in a thousand, to tell a man what is right for him" (Job 33:23). The Hebrew word for "mediator" (מֵלִיץ, melitz) suggests an advocate or interpreter. 8. Restoration and Redemption Elihu describes the potential for restoration and redemption when a person responds to God's correction, resulting in renewed health and joy. He declares, "He prays to God and finds favor; he sees God’s face and shouts for joy, and God restores his righteousness to that man" (Job 33:26). The Hebrew root for "restores" (שׁוּב, shuv) implies a return to a previous state of well-being. 9. Elihu's Call for Job to Listen and Respond Elihu concludes by urging Job to listen and respond to his arguments, offering to teach him wisdom. He says, "Pay attention, Job, and listen to me; be silent, and I will speak" (Job 33:31). The Hebrew root for "listen" (קָשַׁב, qashab) emphasizes the importance of attentive and thoughtful consideration. Lessons from Job 33 1. God Speaks in Various Ways God communicates with us in diverse manners, often beyond our expectations. As Elihu points out, "For God speaks in one way and in another, yet no one notices" (Job 33:14). Whether through dreams, visions, or the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit, God’s voice is ever-present. Stay attentive and open to His guidance in your life. 2. Humility Opens the Heart Elihu reminds us of the importance of humility when approaching God. "But now, Job, listen to my words; pay attention to everything I say" (Job 33:1). A humble heart is receptive to wisdom and correction. Embrace humility as a pathway to deeper understanding and spiritual growth. 3. God’s Discipline is a Sign of Love Discipline is not a punishment but a form of divine love. Elihu explains, "He may speak in their ears and terrify them with warnings" (Job 33:16). God’s correction is meant to steer us away from harm and towards righteousness. Recognize His discipline as a loving act of guidance. 4. Suffering Can Lead to Redemption Elihu highlights that suffering can be a tool for redemption. "To turn a man from wrongdoing and keep him from pride" (Job 33:17). Trials refine our character and draw us closer to God. Embrace challenges as opportunities for spiritual renewal and growth. 5. God’s Mercy is Everlasting God’s mercy is a constant in our lives. Elihu assures us, "He spares their souls from the Pit" (Job 33:18). No matter how far we stray, God’s mercy is always available to bring us back into His loving arms. Trust in His unfailing compassion. 6. The Power of Intercession Intercession is a powerful tool in the believer’s arsenal. Elihu notes, "If there is a messenger for him, a mediator, one among a thousand, to tell a man what is right for him" (Job 33:23). Praying for others can bring about divine intervention and transformation. Be an intercessor in your community. 7. God Restores the Joy of Salvation Elihu speaks of restoration, "Then he will pray to God, and He will accept him; he will see His face with a shout of joy" (Job 33:26). God delights in restoring our joy and renewing our spirit. Seek His presence for a refreshing of your soul. 8. Confession Leads to Healing Confession is a pathway to healing and restoration. Elihu emphasizes, "He will sing before men and say, ‘I sinned and perverted what was right, yet I did not get what I deserved’" (Job 33:27). Acknowledging our sins opens the door to God’s grace and forgiveness. 9. God’s Justice is Perfect God’s justice is flawless and impartial. Elihu declares, "God does all these things to a man—twice, even three times" (Job 33:29). Trust in His perfect justice, knowing that He sees all and will make all things right in His time. 10. Listen and Learn from God’s Wisdom Finally, Elihu encourages us to listen and learn from God’s wisdom. "Pay attention, Job, and listen to me; be silent, and I will speak" (Job 33:31). God’s wisdom is a treasure trove of insight and guidance. Make it a priority to seek His wisdom daily through prayer and Scripture. These lessons from Job 33 remind us of the profound truths found in God’s Word. Embrace them as you navigate your spiritual journey, trusting in God’s eternal wisdom and love. Topics 1. Elihu's Introduction and Appeal to Job Elihu begins his discourse by addressing Job directly, emphasizing his sincerity and desire to speak truthfully. He invites Job to listen and respond if he can. "But now, Job, hear my speech, and listen to all my words." (Job 33:1) 2. God's Communication with Man Elihu asserts that God speaks to humans in various ways, though they may not always perceive it. This includes dreams, visions, and through suffering. "For God speaks in one way and in another, yet no one notices." (Job 33:14) 3. Purpose of Divine Communication The purpose of God's communication is to turn man from wrongdoing and to preserve his soul from the pit. Elihu emphasizes God's desire to save and instruct. "to turn a man from wrongdoing and keep him from pride," (Job 33:17) 4. Suffering as a Means of Correction Elihu suggests that suffering can be a tool used by God to correct and discipline, leading a person back to righteousness. "He is chastened also with pain on his bed, and with unceasing complaint in his bones;" (Job 33:19) 5. The Role of a Mediator Elihu introduces the concept of a mediator, an angel or messenger, who can intercede on behalf of a person, leading to their restoration and redemption. "If there is a messenger for him, a mediator, one among a thousand, to tell a man what is right for him," (Job 33:23) 6. Restoration and Redemption When a person responds to God's correction, they can be restored and redeemed, experiencing renewed joy and favor. "He prays to God and finds favor; he sees God’s face and shouts for joy, and God restores His righteousness to that man." (Job 33:26) 7. Elihu's Call for Job to Listen Elihu concludes by urging Job to listen carefully to his words, offering Job the opportunity to speak if he has anything to say in his defense. "Pay attention, Job, and listen to me; be silent, and I will speak." (Job 33:31) Themes 1. God's Communication with Humanity Elihu emphasizes that God speaks to humans in various ways, though they may not perceive it. This theme is rooted in the idea that God is actively involved in human affairs and desires to guide them. ^“For God speaks in one way and in another, yet no one notices.”^ (Job 33:14) 2. Divine Discipline and Correction Elihu suggests that suffering can be a form of divine discipline intended to correct and save a person from greater harm. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "musar" (מוסר), meaning instruction or discipline. ^“He keeps back his soul from the Pit, and his life from perishing by the sword.”^ (Job 33:18) 3. The Role of a Mediator Elihu introduces the idea of a mediator or intercessor who can plead with God on behalf of a person, prefiguring the Christian understanding of Christ as the ultimate mediator. ^“If there is a messenger for him, a mediator, one out of a thousand, to tell a man what is right for him,”^ (Job 33:23) 4. God's Desire for Repentance and Restoration Elihu highlights God's willingness to restore those who repent, emphasizing His mercy and grace. This aligns with the Hebrew root "shuv" (שוב), meaning to return or repent. ^“He prays to God and finds favor; he sees God’s face and shouts for joy, and God restores his righteousness to that man.”^ (Job 33:26) 5. Human Limitation and Divine Wisdom Elihu points out the limitations of human understanding compared to God's infinite wisdom, encouraging humility and trust in God's greater plan. ^“Behold, God does all these things to a man, two or even three times, to bring back his soul from the Pit, that he may be enlightened with the light of life.”^ (Job 33:29-30) Prayer Points Discernment Pray for the ability to discern God's voice and understand His purposes in your life. Patience in Suffering Ask God for patience and strength to endure trials, trusting that He is working for your good. Wisdom in Counsel Seek God's wisdom when offering advice to others, that you may speak truth in love and humility. Redemption and Restoration Thank God for His promise of redemption and pray for those who need to experience His restoring power in their lives. Answering Tough Questions 1. In Job 33:4, how does “the Spirit of God has made me” align with scientific accounts of human origin? 2. In Job 33:14, if God truly speaks in multiple ways, why is there no verifiable evidence of such divine communication today? 3. In Job 33:15–16, how does the claim that God instructs people through dreams hold up against modern psychological research on dreaming? 4. In Job 33:19–20, how can physical suffering sent by God be reconciled with current medical understanding and treatments? 5. In the context of Job 33 as a whole, why should readers trust Elihu’s self-proclaimed divine insight when there is no independent confirmation of his authority? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Elihu present his approach to Job differently than Job's other friends? How might this change your approach when talking about faith with others? 2. According to Elihu, why might God allow suffering in our lives (v.12-22)? How does this perspective align with or challenge your understanding of suffering? 3. Explore the role of the mediator as presented in verses 23-28. How does this concept parallel with the New Testament teachings about Jesus Christ? 4. How does Elihu’s discourse in Job 33 underscore the importance of listening for God’s messages in our lives? 5. Can you recall a situation where you experienced hardship and later realized it had led you to a better path or deeper understanding? How does this align with Elihu's argument? 6. How does Elihu’s assertion that God does not answer all questions (v.13) affect your understanding of divine silence during hardship? 7. In what ways might the concept of God communicating through suffering influence your interpretation of personal or global adversity? 8. Elihu suggests that suffering can lead to repentance (v.17). Discuss a time when adversity led you to change your behavior or perspective. 9. Elihu speaks of a 'messenger' who acts as a mediator between God and man. How might this prefigure the role of Jesus in the New Testament? 10. How does Elihu's willingness to listen to Job's response model active listening and respectful dialogue in spiritual discussions? 11. Considering Elihu's argument, how might you counsel someone going through a challenging time and questioning the presence or goodness of God? 12. In what ways does Elihu’s speech in Job 33 challenge or reinforce your current understanding of God's nature and his interaction with humans? 13. Elihu's intervention underscores the need for patience and understanding in dealing with spiritual crises. How can this guide our interactions with others experiencing spiritual struggles? 14. How does Elihu view repentance, and how does it contribute to the restoration of a person’s relationship with God? 15. Elihu stresses that suffering can be an opportunity for growth and transformation. How can this perspective shift our response to personal hardships? 16. How might Elihu's discourse impact your prayers during difficult times, especially considering his assertion that God uses suffering to speak? 17. Considering Elihu’s explanation, how can we cultivate a posture of listening and learning in times of adversity? 18. Elihu concludes by giving Job the opportunity to speak. Why might this be important in the context of compassionate communication and understanding? 19. How might Job 33 inform Christian beliefs about the importance of Jesus as our Mediator? 20. What lessons from Elihu's discourse in Job 33 can you apply in your personal life when faced with trials, especially when it seems God is silent? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions