What does "possessions of his house" in Job 20:28 symbolize spiritually? Setting the verse in its context • Zophar’s speech in Job 20 warns that the apparent prosperity of the wicked is short-lived. • He culminates with Job 20:28: “The possessions of his house will be removed, flowing away in the day of God’s wrath.” • Literally, Zophar pictures every item—land, livestock, gold, heirlooms—swept from the sinner’s estate when judgment strikes. Literal picture, spiritual truth • Scripture is historically accurate, and the text envisions real wealth being stripped away. • Yet the verse also carries a timeless spiritual message: whatever a person treasures apart from God cannot survive divine judgment. What “possessions of his house” symbolizes spiritually 1. The whole life-investment of the wicked – Everything accumulated by self-effort and self-indulgence. – Luke 12:20–21: “But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?’” 2. Inner securities and idols – Not only bank accounts, but reputation, influence, relationships used for selfish ends. – Ezekiel 7:19: “Their silver and gold will not be able to deliver them in the day of the wrath of the LORD.” 3. A counterfeit legacy – What the ungodly hope to pass on—values, culture, name—lacks eternal substance. – Psalm 49:16-17: “Do not be afraid when a man enriches himself… for when he dies, he will carry nothing away.” 4. The heart’s true treasure store – Matthew 6:21: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” – “House” mirrors the inner person; “possessions” mirror the affections filling that house. Why judgment sweeps these possessions away • They were amassed without reference to God (Job 20:15). • They fed pride and rebellion (vv. 6-7). • Only what is rooted in righteousness endures; all else is combustible “wood, hay, straw” (1 Corinthians 3:12-15). Key implications for believers today • Invest in imperishable riches: faith, obedience, gospel witness (Matthew 6:19-20). • Guard the “house” of your heart; evict hidden idols early (Proverbs 4:23). • Remember that even legitimate possessions are stewardship items, not security blankets (1 Timothy 6:17-19). • Live in light of “the day of God’s wrath,” when “the earth and its works will be laid bare” (2 Peter 3:10). Takeaway “Possessions of his house” shines a spotlight on everything the unrepentant soul clings to instead of God. In the inevitable day of reckoning, those treasures vanish, proving that only what is anchored in Christ is truly secure. |
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