Job 21:31

Who denounces his behavior to his face? Who repays him for what he has done?

Study Bible

Who will confront him
The phrase "Who will confront him" speaks to the idea of accountability and justice. In the Hebrew text, the word for "confront" is "yagid," which implies declaring or making known. Job is questioning the absence of anyone who will stand up to the wicked and call them to account for their actions. This reflects a deep concern for moral order and justice, which is a recurring theme in the wisdom literature of the Bible. Historically, this reflects the ancient Near Eastern context where kings and rulers often acted with impunity, and the common people had little recourse to challenge them. Job's lament is a cry for divine justice in a world where human systems often fail.

with his ways?
The term "ways" in Hebrew is "derek," which means a path or course of life. It signifies not just actions but the overall conduct and character of a person. Job is highlighting the comprehensive nature of the wicked person's life, suggesting that their entire way of living is in question. This is consistent with the biblical understanding that God judges not just isolated actions but the heart and the path one chooses. Theologically, this points to the need for integrity and righteousness in one's entire life, not just in isolated deeds.

Who will repay him
The word "repay" comes from the Hebrew "shalam," which means to make whole or to recompense. It carries the idea of justice being served, of balance being restored. Job is questioning the apparent lack of divine retribution for the wicked. In the ancient world, the concept of retribution was central to justice, and Job's question reflects a struggle with the reality that the wicked often seem to prosper without facing consequences. This tension is a central theme in the book of Job, as it explores the mystery of God's justice and the suffering of the righteous.

for what he has done?
This phrase underscores the actions and deeds of the wicked. The Hebrew word "asah" means to do or to make, emphasizing the tangible actions that should warrant judgment. Job is perplexed by the lack of divine response to the deeds of the wicked. This reflects a broader biblical theme that God is ultimately just and will judge each person according to their deeds. In the New Testament, this is echoed in passages like Romans 2:6, which states that God "will repay each one according to his deeds." Job's lament is a call for divine justice and a reminder of the ultimate accountability every person faces before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Job
The central figure in the Book of Job, a man of great faith and patience who endures immense suffering and questions the justice of God.

2. Job's Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who visit Job to offer counsel but often accuse him of wrongdoing as the cause of his suffering.

3. The Wicked
In this context, Job refers to those who prosper despite their immoral actions, questioning why they are not held accountable.

4. God
The ultimate judge and arbiter of justice, whose ways and reasons are often beyond human understanding.

5. The Setting
The land of Uz, where Job resides, serving as the backdrop for the dialogues and discourses on suffering and divine justice.

Teaching Points

The Mystery of Divine Justice
God's justice is not always immediately apparent. Believers are called to trust in His ultimate wisdom and timing, even when the wicked seem to prosper.

The Role of Accountability
Human systems of justice are limited. True accountability comes from God, who sees all actions and intentions.

The Challenge of Righteous Living
Job's lament encourages believers to remain steadfast in righteousness, trusting that God will ultimately vindicate the faithful.

The Importance of Compassionate Counsel
Job's friends failed to provide true comfort. Believers should strive to offer empathy and understanding to those who suffer, rather than judgment.

The Assurance of God's Sovereignty
Despite appearances, God is sovereign and just. Believers can find peace in knowing that He will set all things right in His perfect time.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Job 21:31 challenge our understanding of justice in the world today?

2. In what ways can we find comfort in God's sovereignty when we see the wicked prosper?

3. How can we apply the lessons from Job's friends' failures to our own interactions with those who are suffering?

4. What other biblical examples can you find where God's justice is delayed but ultimately fulfilled?

5. How can we maintain our faith and integrity when faced with the apparent success of those who do wrong?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 73
This psalm reflects on the prosperity of the wicked and the struggle to understand why they seem to escape judgment, similar to Job's lament.

Ecclesiastes 8:11-13
These verses discuss the delay of justice and the eventual fate of the wicked, providing a broader biblical context for Job's questions.

Romans 2:5-6
Paul speaks of God's righteous judgment and the eventual repayment for one's deeds, aligning with the theme of divine justice in Job 21:31.