What actions in Job 31:28 are considered "a sin to be judged"? The Verse in Focus “this would also be an iniquity to be judged, for I would have denied God on high.” (Job 31:28) Actions Job Identifies as “An Iniquity to Be Judged” • Placing trust in wealth instead of God —“If I have put my trust in gold or called pure gold my security” (v. 24) • Rejoicing in material success as his ultimate satisfaction —“if I have rejoiced in my great wealth because my hand had gained so much” (v. 25) • Gazing upon the sun or moon with reverence that borders on worship —“if I have beheld the sun in its radiance or the moon moving in splendor” (v. 26) • Responding to celestial bodies with an idolatrous gesture —“so that my heart was secretly enticed and my hand threw a kiss from my mouth” (v. 27) In verse 28 Job gathers these items under one verdict: each of them “would also be an iniquity to be judged.” Why These Actions Invite Judgment • They replace the Creator with created things—whether gold or heavenly lights—thus violating the first commandment (Exodus 20:3). • They deny God’s exclusive right to trust and worship: “For I would have denied God on high.” • Scripture consistently warns that trusting wealth leads to spiritual ruin (Psalm 52:7; Matthew 6:24). • Worship of sun or moon is explicitly forbidden: “If you bow down to them … you must be stoned” (Deuteronomy 17:3-5). Related Passages That Reinforce Job’s Stand • Psalm 24:1—God alone owns all. • Proverbs 11:28—“He who trusts in his riches will fall.” • Isaiah 42:8—God shares His glory with no idol. • 1 Timothy 6:17—Believers are to fix hope on God, “who richly provides.” Takeaway for Today When anything—money, success, even the marvels of creation—claims the trust, joy, or worship that belongs to God alone, it becomes a sin God will judge. Job’s integrity shines because he refuses to let wealth or wonder rival the Most High. |
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