What is the meaning of Job 4:3? Surely Eliphaz opens with a word of certainty—“Surely.” He is not guessing about Job’s past; he is confident. Scripture often uses such affirming language to underscore what is well-known (2 Corinthians 5:1, “For we know…”). Here, Eliphaz is reminding Job—and the listening readers—that Job’s character and conduct were public facts, not private rumors. You have instructed many Eliphaz testifies that Job was a teacher of truth: • Job’s counsel had brought clarity and direction to large numbers (“many”), echoing the esteem shown in Job 29:21-22, where men “listened and waited in silence for my counsel.” • This ministry of instruction mirrors the call found later in Proverbs 9:9, “Instruct a wise man and he will be wiser still,” showing that godly wisdom multiplies when shared. • By teaching others, Job fulfilled the principle in Matthew 5:14-16—letting his light shine before men—long before Jesus said it. Eliphaz’s point: Job’s life has been marked by consistent, faithful teaching that shaped families, workers, and communities in righteousness. And have strengthened their feeble hands Job’s help went beyond words; he fortified the weary: • “Feeble hands” recalls Isaiah 35:3, “Strengthen the weak hands and steady the knees that give way,” a call to practical care. • Hebrews 12:12 later echoes the same imagery, urging believers to “strengthen your limp hands and weak knees,” indicating that Job modeled a timeless duty. Specific ways Job may have strengthened others (see Job 29:12-17): – Rescuing the poor who cried for help – Caring for orphans and widows – Acting as eyes to the blind and feet to the lame – Breaking the fangs of the wicked to deliver the oppressed Such tangible acts embody Galatians 6:2, “Carry one another’s burdens,” showing that real faith rolls up its sleeves. summary Eliphaz’s opening words in Job 4:3 remind us that Job was renowned for two intertwined ministries: teaching truth and bolstering the weak. The verse celebrates a life that spoke wisdom and supplied strength, illustrating James 2:18, “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” Though Eliphaz will soon misapply his observations, his testimony here affirms that God’s people are called to instruct many and strengthen feeble hands, trusting that such labor is seen, remembered, and ultimately rewarded by the Lord. |
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