Job 25:4

How then can a man be just before God? How can one born of woman be pure?

Study Bible

How then
This phrase introduces a rhetorical question, emphasizing the logical progression from Bildad's previous statements about God's majesty and the insignificance of man. In Hebrew, the word "אֵיךְ" (eik) is used, which often introduces a question of possibility or capability. It sets the stage for a profound inquiry into human nature and divine justice, inviting readers to ponder the vast chasm between God's holiness and human frailty.

can a man
The term "man" here is translated from the Hebrew word "אֱנוֹשׁ" (enosh), which often denotes human beings in their frailty and mortality. This choice of word underscores the inherent weakness and limitations of humanity when compared to the divine. It serves as a reminder of the biblical theme that humans, in their natural state, are incapable of achieving righteousness on their own.

be just
The concept of being "just" is derived from the Hebrew root "צָדַק" (tsadaq), meaning to be righteous or justified. In the context of the Old Testament, righteousness is often associated with adherence to God's laws and commands. This phrase challenges the reader to consider the impossibility of achieving true justice or righteousness before a perfect and holy God through human effort alone.

before God
This phrase highlights the ultimate standard of judgment and righteousness. The Hebrew word for God here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), a term that conveys God's power, authority, and sovereignty. It reminds us that God's perspective is the ultimate measure of justice, and human standards fall short in His presence. The phrase calls believers to recognize their need for divine grace and mercy.

How can one born of woman
This expression emphasizes the natural human condition, originating from the Hebrew "יְלוּד אִשָּׁה" (yelud ishah). It points to the universal experience of being born into a fallen world, inheriting a sinful nature. The phrase serves as a reminder of the doctrine of original sin, which asserts that all humans are born with a propensity to sin, necessitating divine intervention for redemption.

be pure?
The word "pure" is translated from the Hebrew "זַךְ" (zak), meaning clean or innocent. In biblical terms, purity often refers to moral and spiritual cleanliness, free from sin and defilement. This rhetorical question underscores the impossibility of achieving such purity through human means alone. It points to the need for a savior, foreshadowing the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ, who provides the means for true purification and righteousness before God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Bildad the Shuhite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. In this chapter, Bildad is speaking, emphasizing the greatness of God and the insignificance of man.

2. Job
The central figure of the book, a man of great faith and integrity who undergoes severe trials and suffering.

3. God
The Almighty Creator, whose justice and purity are beyond human comprehension.

4. Man
Refers to humanity in general, highlighting human frailty and sinfulness in contrast to God's holiness.

5. The Heavens
Often used in the book of Job to illustrate God's majesty and the vastness of His creation.

Teaching Points

Human Limitation and Sinfulness
Recognize our inherent sinfulness and inability to achieve purity on our own.

God's Holiness and Justice
Understand the vast difference between God's holiness and human imperfection.

The Need for a Mediator
Acknowledge the necessity of Jesus Christ as our mediator who bridges the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God.

The Role of Faith
Emphasize that righteousness before God is attained through faith in Jesus Christ, not through human efforts.

Living in Humility
Encourage a humble approach to life, recognizing our dependence on God's grace and mercy.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Bildad's question in Job 25:4 reflect the broader theme of human sinfulness found throughout the Bible?

2. In what ways does the New Testament provide an answer to Bildad's question about being just before God?

3. How can understanding our limitations and God's holiness impact our daily walk with Christ?

4. What role does faith play in achieving righteousness, and how can we cultivate a deeper faith in our lives?

5. How can we apply the concept of humility in our interactions with others, knowing our own need for God's grace?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 3:23
This verse echoes the sentiment of human sinfulness and the inability to achieve righteousness on our own, similar to Bildad's assertion in Job 25:4.

Psalm 51:5
David acknowledges his sinful nature from birth, aligning with the idea that no one born of woman can be pure.

Isaiah 64:6
Describes human righteousness as "filthy rags," reinforcing the concept that human efforts fall short of God's standards.

1 John 1:9
Offers hope by explaining that through confession and God's faithfulness, we can be purified from unrighteousness.

Philippians 3:9
Paul speaks of righteousness through faith in Christ, not through the law, providing a New Testament perspective on being just before God.