Job 19: Group Study Handout

Overview

In Job chapter 19, Job responds to the accusations and scorn of his friends, particularly Bildad, as he laments his suffering and isolation. He begins by expressing the deep anguish he feels due to his friends' harsh words and their failure to understand his plight. Job feels alienated and believes that God has turned against him, leaving him without support from his family and former associates.

Key verse

“But as for me, I know that my Redeemer lives. In the end, he will stand upon the earth.”

Job 19:25 (WEB)

Outline

1. Job 19:1–6 Job's Response to His Friends
2. Job 19:7–12 Job's Plea for Justice
3. Job 19:13–20 Isolation and Estrangement
4. Job 19:21–24 A Cry for Compassion
5. Job 19:25–27 Declaration of Hope
6. Job 19:28–29 Warning Against Persecution

Discussion questions

1. In v19, who does Job say has turned against him?
2. What does Job mean in v21 when he calls for pity from his friends?
3. Job's feelings of isolation in vv. 13-14: what does this imply about his previous relationships?
4. Job's declaration in v25 about his Redeemer: what does this indicate about his hope?
5. When have you felt isolated like Job in v13, forgotten by those close to you?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Job 19: Job 30, Job 16, Job 13.

Before next time: read Job 20.