Job 5: Group Study Handout

Overview

In Job chapter 5, Eliphaz continues his discourse, advising Job to seek God and submit to His discipline, emphasizing that suffering can be a result of divine correction. He urges Job to recognize the wisdom and power of God, who brings both blessing and calamity but ultimately seeks to restore those who return to Him. Eliphaz outlines the benefits of accepting God's correction, including eventual protection, peace, and prosperity.

Key verse

“Behold, happy is the man whom God corrects. Therefore do not despise the chastening of the Almighty.”

Job 5:17 (WEB)

Outline

1. Job 5:1–2 Call to Seek Divine Help
2. Job 5:3–6 Consequences of Foolishness
3. Job 5:7–10 Human Nature and Divine Power
4. Job 5:11–16 God's Protection and Justice
5. Job 5:17–21 The Blessing of Discipline
6. Job 5:22–26 Promises of Safety and Prosperity
7. Job 5:27 Conclusion and Assurance

Discussion questions

1. In v17, who does Eliphaz say is 'happy' and why?
2. What does Eliphaz claim in vv. 19-20 about God's protection during 'famine'?
3. In v8, why does Eliphaz advise Job to 'seek God' rather than continue in his current state?
4. Eliphaz's assertion in v27 about having 'searched it': what does this imply about his understanding of suffering?
5. When has a time of correction led you to find peace, as suggested in v18?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Job 5: Psalm 33, Psalm 91, Proverbs 16.

Before next time: read Job 6.