In what ways does Job 31:31 connect to Jesus' teachings on loving enemies? Job 31:31 in Context “if the men of my house have not said, ‘Who has not had his fill of Job’s meat?’ ” (Job 31:31) • In the verses just before, Job insists he never “rejoiced at my enemy’s ruin” and never “asked for his life with a curse” (vv. 29-30). • Verse 31 then highlights Job’s radical hospitality: everyone—friend, stranger, even former foe—left his table satisfied. • The flow continues in v. 32: “no stranger had to lodge on the street, for my door has been open to the traveler.” Jesus on Loving Enemies “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…” (Matthew 5:43-44) “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you… and you will be sons of the Most High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” (Luke 6:27-35, excerpts) Where the Two Passages Meet • Tangible kindness: Job feeds people; Jesus commands concrete acts of good (“do good”). • Inclusivity: Job’s table is open to all; Jesus broadens “neighbor” to include enemies. • Reflection of God’s character: Job’s generosity mirrors a righteous life; Jesus says such love marks us as “sons of your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:45). • Refusal to retaliate: Job won’t curse an enemy; Jesus forbids revenge, urging prayer instead. • Continuity of Scripture: Long before the Sermon on the Mount, Job lives out the same ethic that Jesus later teaches, confirming a consistent biblical call to graciousness even toward adversaries. Supporting Passages • Proverbs 25:21 (quoted in Romans 12:20): “If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink.” • Romans 12:20-21: overcoming evil with good, echoing both Job and Jesus. • James 2:15-16; 1 John 3:17: genuine faith shows itself through meeting practical needs—just what Job modeled. Takeaways for Today • Assess hospitality: Is my home, schedule, and wallet as open as Job’s table? • Extend kindness proactively: look for needs in those who disagree with or oppose me. • Guard the heart: refuse to celebrate an opponent’s downfall, choosing prayer instead. • Display the Father’s likeness: consistent, generous love testifies that the gospel is true. |
    |