Job 32:13

So do not claim, 'We have found wisdom; let God, not man, refute him.'

Study Bible

So do not claim
This phrase serves as a caution against presumption. In the Hebrew context, the word for "claim" can be understood as asserting or boasting. Elihu, the speaker in this chapter, warns against the arrogance of assuming human wisdom is sufficient to understand or judge God's ways. This reflects a broader biblical theme that true wisdom comes from God alone (Proverbs 2:6).

‘We have found wisdom
The phrase suggests a self-congratulatory attitude, as if the speakers have achieved a complete understanding. In the Hebrew tradition, wisdom (חָכְמָה, chokmah) is not merely intellectual knowledge but a deep, spiritual insight that aligns with God's will. The Book of Job consistently challenges the notion that human wisdom can fully comprehend divine purposes, emphasizing the limitations of human understanding.

let God, not man
This highlights the sovereignty of God in matters of judgment and understanding. The Hebrew word for God here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), which underscores His power and authority. The phrase contrasts divine wisdom with human limitations, reminding readers that ultimate truth and justice are determined by God, not by human reasoning or debate.

refute him
The term "refute" implies correction or disproving. In the context of Job, Elihu suggests that only God has the authority and capability to correct or challenge Job's assertions. This reflects a key theme in the book: the inadequacy of human arguments in the face of divine wisdom. The Hebrew root for "refute" (יָכַח, yakach) often carries the connotation of reproof or discipline, indicating that God's correction is both authoritative and instructive.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Elihu
A young man who speaks after Job's three friends have failed to provide satisfactory answers to Job's suffering. He is introduced in Job 32 and claims to speak with wisdom given by God.

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

3. Job's Three Friends
Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who attempt to explain Job's suffering through traditional wisdom, suggesting it is due to sin.

4. God
The ultimate source of wisdom and the one who eventually answers Job, highlighting the limitations of human understanding.

5. The Setting
The dialogue takes place in the land of Uz, where Job and his friends engage in a series of discourses about suffering, justice, and divine wisdom.

Teaching Points

The Source of True Wisdom
True wisdom comes from God, not from human reasoning or tradition. We must seek divine insight rather than relying solely on human understanding.

Humility in Understanding
Recognize the limitations of human wisdom and approach God with humility, acknowledging that His ways and thoughts are higher than ours.

The Role of Youth in Wisdom
Elihu, though young, demonstrates that God can use anyone, regardless of age, to convey His truth. We should be open to wisdom from unexpected sources.

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
Trust that God is the ultimate judge and refuter of arguments. We should not presume to have all the answers but rely on His perfect judgment.

The Importance of Listening
Elihu listened before speaking, showing the importance of understanding before responding. We should practice active listening in our interactions.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Elihu's perspective on wisdom challenge the views of Job's three friends, and what can we learn from this about seeking wisdom in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the concept of divine wisdom in Job 32:13 relate to the teachings found in Proverbs 3:5-6?

3. How can we apply the principle of humility in understanding God's ways, as seen in Job 32:13, to our daily decision-making processes?

4. What role does age and experience play in the acquisition of wisdom, and how does Elihu's example encourage us to value wisdom from all ages?

5. How can we practice active listening in our spiritual and personal relationships, following Elihu's example before he spoke in Job 32?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 3:5-6
This passage emphasizes trusting in the Lord rather than leaning on one's own understanding, paralleling Elihu's assertion that true wisdom comes from God.

Isaiah 55:8-9
These verses highlight the difference between God's thoughts and ways and those of humans, reinforcing the idea that human wisdom is limited compared to divine wisdom.

1 Corinthians 1:25
Paul speaks of the wisdom of God being greater than human wisdom, which aligns with Elihu's point that God, not man, should refute Job.