Job 27: Group Study Handout

Overview

In Job chapter 27, Job continues his discourse, maintaining his integrity and affirming his commitment to righteousness in the face of suffering. He insists that as long as he lives, he will not speak falsely or act deceitfully, remaining steadfast in his refusal to undermine his integrity. Job declares that God has denied him justice and filled his soul with bitterness, yet he will hold firm to his righteousness.

Key verse

“Far be it from me that I should justify you. Until I die I will not put away my integrity from me.”

Job 27:5 (WEB)

Outline

1. Job 27:1–2 Job Declares His Integrity
2. Job 27:3–6 Refusal to Compromise
3. Job 27:7–10 The Fate of the Wicked
4. Job 27:11–12 Teaching on God's Justice
5. Job 27:13–18 The Portion of the Wicked
6. Job 27:19–22 The Transience of Wealth
7. Job 27:23 The People's Response

Discussion questions

1. In v6, why does Job insist that he will not let go of his integrity?
2. What image does Job use in v18 to describe how the wicked build their houses?
3. Job states in vv. 9-10 that the godless cry out in trouble, but does God respond? Why is this tension significant?
4. In v13, what is the 'portion of a wicked man with God' according to Job's assertion?
5. When have you felt like the 'east wind' in v21 swept you away unexpectedly?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Job 27: Psalm 37, Proverbs 13, Ecclesiastes 2.

Before next time: read Job 28.