They said to God, 'Depart from us. What can the Almighty do to us?' They said to GodThis phrase introduces the rebellious attitude of those who have turned away from God. In the Hebrew text, the word for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which is a common verb used to express speech or thought. This indicates a deliberate and conscious decision to reject God. Historically, this reflects the attitude of many who, in their prosperity, felt self-sufficient and saw no need for divine intervention or guidance. It is a reminder of the human tendency to forget God when life seems manageable on our own terms. ‘Depart from us What can the Almighty do to us? Persons / Places / Events 1. Eliphaz the TemaniteOne of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. In this chapter, Eliphaz is speaking, accusing Job of wickedness and suggesting that Job's suffering is due to his sin. 2. Job A man described as blameless and upright, who fears God and shuns evil. He is undergoing severe trials and suffering, which prompts discussions with his friends about the nature of God and human suffering. 3. God (The Almighty) The central divine figure in the Book of Job, whose sovereignty and justice are questioned and explored throughout the account. 4. Teman A region in Edom, associated with wisdom, from which Eliphaz hails. 5. The Wicked In this context, those who reject God and His authority, believing they can live independently of His will. Teaching Points The Danger of Rejecting GodThe verse highlights the peril of dismissing God’s authority and presence. It serves as a warning against the arrogance of believing we can live without God. Understanding Suffering Eliphaz’s accusation reflects a misunderstanding of suffering. Not all suffering is a direct result of personal sin, and this calls for a deeper trust in God’s wisdom and sovereignty. The Role of Friends in Times of Trial Eliphaz’s approach shows the importance of offering true comfort and understanding rather than judgment. We should seek to support others with empathy and truth. God’s Sovereignty and Human Pride The verse challenges us to recognize God’s ultimate power and authority over our lives, countering human pride and self-sufficiency. Reflecting on Our Attitude Toward God It prompts self-examination of our own attitudes toward God’s presence and authority in our lives. Are we living in submission to Him, or are we pushing Him away? Bible Study Questions 1. How does Eliphaz’s perspective on suffering and sin reflect or differ from the overall message of the Book of Job?2. In what ways do we see the attitude of "Depart from us" toward God in today’s society, and how can we address it? 3. How can we ensure that our counsel to friends in distress is both compassionate and biblically sound? 4. What are some practical steps we can take to acknowledge God’s sovereignty in our daily lives? 5. How do other scriptures, such as Romans 1:28, deepen our understanding of the consequences of rejecting God’s authority? Connections to Other Scriptures Psalm 10:4This verse describes the wicked as those who do not seek God and have no room for Him in their thoughts, similar to the attitude described in Job 22:17. Proverbs 1:24-31 These verses speak of the consequences of rejecting wisdom and God’s counsel, paralleling the rejection of God’s authority seen in Job 22:17. Romans 1:28 Paul describes how people did not see fit to acknowledge God, leading to a depraved mind, echoing the sentiment of rejecting God’s presence and authority.
People Eliphaz, Job, OphirPlaces Ophir, UzTopics Able, Almighty, Alone, Aside, Depart, Mighty, Ruler, Saying, TurnDictionary of Bible Themes Job 22:15-18Library December 29 MorningUnderstanding what the will of the Lord is.--EPH. 5:17. This is the will of God, even your sanctification.--Acquaint now thyself with him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee.--This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.--We know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal … Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path Knowledge and Peace What Life May be Made Whether all Things are under Divine Providence Whether God is Everywhere by Essence, Presence and Power? Whether Everything is Subject to the Providence of God? The Doctrine of God The Case of the Christian under the Hiding of God's Face. Bands of Love; Or, Union to Christ. "I Drew them with Cords of a Man, with Bands of Love: and I was to them as they that Take Off the Yoke on their Jaws, and I Laid Meat unto Them. " --Hosea xi. 4. A Holy Life the Beauty of Christianity: Or, an Exhortation to Christians to be Holy. By John Bunyan. Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals. Epistle xxxix. To Eulogius, Patriarch of Alexandria. Covenanting According to the Purposes of God. Job Links Job 22:17 NIVJob 22:17 NLT Job 22:17 ESV Job 22:17 NASB Job 22:17 KJV Job 22:17 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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