Free group study handout
Job 18: Group Study Handout
How to use: read Job 18 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
In Job chapter 18, Bildad the Shuhite responds to Job, expressing frustration over Job's words and perceived stubbornness. Bildad rebukes Job, alleging that his words are like a trap, entangling him in a false narrative. With a stark tone, Bildad poetically describes the fate of the wicked, painting a grim picture of darkness, decay, and isolation that awaits those who oppose God.
Key verse
“Yes, the light of the wicked shall be put out, The spark of his fire shall not shine.”
Job 18:5 (WEB)
Outline
- Job 18:1–2 Bildad's Frustration with Job
- Job 18:3–4 Perception of Uncleanliness
- Job 18:5–7 The Fate of the Wicked
- Job 18:8–12 Destruction and Entanglement
- Job 18:13–19 Isolation and Loss
- Job 18:20–21 Conclusion on the Unrighteous
Discussion questions
- In v5, what does Bildad claim will happen to 'the light of the wicked'?
- What imagery does Bildad use in v14 regarding the fate of the wicked?
- In v19, what does Bildad mean by having 'neither son nor grandson' among his people?
- What is implied by Bildad's statement about being 'driven from light into darkness' in v18?
- When have you felt like your words were misunderstood, as Bildad suggests in v2?
Go deeper
Passages that echo Job 18: Job 20, Job 15, Job 5.
Before next time: read Job 19.