In this series on the Book of Job, Stephen emphasizes the importance of personal reading and understanding of the text, as the study will not cover every detail. The sessions will be divided into four parts: "The Crisis" (Chapters 1-2), "The Soul Searching" (Chapters 3-31), "The Spirit's Interpretation" (Chapters 32-37), and "God Appears" (Chapters 38-42). Job is introduced as a real person, noted for his righteousness and fear of God, living in the land of Uzz during the time of the patriarchs. Stephen highlights that Job's story is not about a beginner in faith but rather a man who has attained a significant level of spiritual maturity. Despite Job's righteousness, he harbored a hidden fear of losing his blessings, indicating that there was still much for God to accomplish in his life. The narrative shifts to a heavenly court where God challenges Satan regarding Job's faithfulness. This sets the stage for Job's trials, which serve to reveal the depth of his love for God, ultimately illustrating the theme of sonship and spiritual maturity through suffering. The end of the Lord is seen as a double portion, symbolizing the growth and transformation of Job.
1 There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil.
14 Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord GOD.
20 Though Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, as I live, saith the Lord GOD, they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness.
11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.
9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.