But if they do not obey, then they perish by the sword and die without knowledge. But if they do not obeyThe phrase begins with a conditional "if," indicating a choice or decision point. The Hebrew root for "obey" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which means to hear, listen, or give heed. In the context of Job, this implies a deeper spiritual listening, not just hearing words but responding to God's guidance. Historically, obedience to God was seen as a covenantal requirement for Israel, reflecting a relationship of trust and submission. The emphasis here is on the importance of aligning one's life with divine wisdom and instruction. they will perish by the sword and die without knowledge Persons / Places / Events 1. ElihuA young man who speaks to Job and his friends, offering his perspective on Job's suffering. Elihu is portrayed as a passionate and somewhat brash speaker who believes he has insight into God's ways. 2. Job The central figure of the Book of Job, a man who experiences immense suffering and seeks to understand the reasons behind it. Job is known for his patience and faithfulness, despite his trials. 3. The Friends of Job Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar, who attempt to explain Job's suffering through traditional wisdom, often suggesting that it is a result of sin. 4. God The ultimate authority and sovereign being, whose wisdom and plans are beyond human understanding. God eventually speaks to Job, providing a divine perspective on his suffering. 5. The Sword A metaphor for judgment or destruction, often used in the Bible to signify divine retribution or the consequences of disobedience. Teaching Points Obedience to GodThe verse underscores the importance of obedience to God's commands. Disobedience leads to dire consequences, both spiritually and physically. The Consequences of Ignorance Ignorance of God's ways and commands can lead to destruction. It is crucial to seek knowledge and understanding of God's will. The Role of Divine Judgment The "sword" symbolizes divine judgment. Understanding that God is just and His judgments are righteous can help believers live in a way that honors Him. The Importance of Wisdom Pursuing wisdom and knowledge is vital for a life that pleases God. This involves studying Scripture and applying its truths to daily life. Repentance and Redemption While the verse warns of perishing due to disobedience, it also implies the possibility of redemption through repentance and turning back to God. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Elihu's perspective on suffering and obedience differ from that of Job's other friends, and what can we learn from his approach?2. In what ways does the metaphor of the "sword" in Job 36:12 relate to the concept of divine judgment found in other parts of the Bible? 3. How can we actively seek knowledge and wisdom to avoid the pitfalls of ignorance mentioned in this verse? 4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure our obedience to God in our daily lives? 5. How does the theme of repentance and redemption in the Bible provide hope in light of the warnings found in Job 36:12? Connections to Other Scriptures Proverbs 1:7This verse highlights the importance of knowledge and the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom, contrasting with the "die without knowledge" in Job 36:12. Hosea 4:6 This passage speaks about the destruction that comes from a lack of knowledge, paralleling the consequences mentioned in Job 36:12. Romans 6:23 The concept of death as a result of sin is echoed here, where the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life.
People Elihu, JobPlaces UzTopics Breath, Dart, Die, Expire, Hearken, Listen, Obey, Pass, Perish, SwordDictionary of Bible Themes Job 36:12Library Whether by his Passion Christ Merited to be Exalted?Objection 1: It seems that Christ did not merit to be exalted on account of His Passion. For eminence of rank belongs to God alone, just as knowledge of truth, according to Ps. 112:4: "The Lord is high above all nations, and His glory above the heavens." But Christ as man had the knowledge of all truth, not on account of any preceding merit, but from the very union of God and man, according to Jn. 1:14: "We saw His glory . . . as it were of the only-Begotten of the Father, full of grace and of truth." … Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica Whether Christ Acquired his Judiciary Power by his Merits? Whether Christ Will Judge under the Form of his Humanity? Whether the Old Law was from God? Whether Man Can Know that He Has Grace? Whether the Judicial Power Corresponds to Voluntary Poverty? Whether Hypocrisy is the Same as Dissimulation? The Great Teacher "That which was from the Beginning," Whether Hypocrisy is Always a Mortal Sin? Whether those to whom Christ's Birth was Made Known were Suitably Chosen? Divine Grace. Messiah's Easy Yoke Epistle v. To Theoctista, Sister of the Emperor. The Greatness of the Soul, Job Links Job 36:12 NIVJob 36:12 NLT Job 36:12 ESV Job 36:12 NASB Job 36:12 KJV Job 36:12 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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