Introduction

Elihu, a young man who appears in the Book of Job, chapters 32-37, is a somewhat enigmatic figure who enters the dialogue between Job and his three friends. His speeches are marked by a fervent zeal for God's righteousness and a desire to correct what he perceives as errors in the arguments of both Job and his friends. Elihu's call to consider God's works is a central theme in his discourse, emphasizing the majesty and incomprehensibility of God's creation and actions.

Context

Elihu's speeches come after Job's three friends—Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar—have failed to provide satisfactory answers to Job's suffering. Elihu, who has been listening in silence, is moved to speak because he believes that both Job and his friends have not adequately defended God's justice. Elihu's discourse is unique in that it serves as a prelude to God's own response to Job, highlighting the grandeur and wisdom of God's works.

Elihu's Argument

Elihu's call to consider God's works is primarily found in Job 36-37. He urges Job and the others to reflect on the greatness of God's creation as evidence of His power and wisdom. Elihu asserts that God's ways are beyond human understanding and that His works in nature testify to His sovereignty and justice.

1. God's Justice and Power: Elihu begins by affirming God's justice and power, stating, "Behold, God is mighty, but despises no one; He is mighty in strength of understanding" (Job 36:5). Elihu emphasizes that God's actions are always just, even if they are not immediately apparent to human observers.

2. God's Control Over Nature: Elihu describes God's control over the natural world, illustrating His power through the elements. He speaks of God's command over the rain, lightning, and thunder, saying, "He loads the clouds with moisture; He scatters His lightning through them" (Job 37:11). Elihu uses these examples to demonstrate that God's works are both awe-inspiring and beyond human comprehension.

3. The Purpose of God's Works: Elihu suggests that God's works serve a purpose, often as a means of instruction or correction. He states, "He brings the clouds to punish men, or to water His earth and show His love" (Job 37:13). This dual purpose underscores the idea that God's actions are always aligned with His divine will and wisdom.

4. Human Limitation and Reverence: Elihu concludes by reminding Job of human limitations in understanding God's ways. He challenges Job to consider the vastness of God's creation, asking, "Do you know how God controls the clouds and makes His lightning flash?" (Job 37:15). Elihu's rhetorical questions are designed to inspire reverence and humility before God's unfathomable works.

Theological Implications

Elihu's call to consider God's works serves as a reminder of the Creator's omnipotence and the limitations of human understanding. His speeches highlight the importance of recognizing God's sovereignty and the need for humility in the face of divine mystery. Elihu's emphasis on God's justice and power reinforces the belief that God's ways, though often inscrutable, are ultimately righteous and purposeful.

Conclusion

Elihu's discourse in the Book of Job invites believers to reflect on the majesty of God's creation and to trust in His wisdom and justice. By contemplating the works of God, individuals are encouraged to develop a deeper reverence for the Creator and to acknowledge their own limitations in understanding His divine plan.