Job 15 Misunderstood

In many of the conjectures made by Job’s “friends”, we see that Eliphaz takes the lead. This would seem to imply that he was the oldest of the three, setting the stage for the other two “comforters” to speak their mind; each taking it a bit further in terms of accusing Job of all their misunderstandings and allegations.

Eliphaz speaks to Job in what seems to be a condescending tone with all kind of false accusations. Stating he was “with empty knowledge”, full hot air, arrogance and speeches that are “unprofitable talk” that do no good. He accused Job of disregarding reverence for God and he had stopped praying. Job was further accused of speaking from a source of iniquity, choosing to be “crafty” with his words. It was his own words that condemned him and not Eliphaz.
These next verses come across as being extremely judgmental. Eliphaz accuses Job of seeing himself as the oldest man, thinking that he was in the counsel of God at creation and the only one with wisdom. What did Job know that these three friends didn’t? Verse ten would seem to indicate that the three comforters were older than Job; which should give some merit to their “wisdom”.

Eliphaz falsely accuses Job of viewing the consolations of God “too small” and words that were spoken “gently” with him. Deception has carried his heart away, he’s turned his “spirit against God”. If God doesn’t trust “His saints”, another faulty perspective; “How much less man, who is abominable and filthy, Who drink iniquity like water.” Keep in mind that statements are made against Job.

What Eliphaz has just made accusation against Job, he now does. “I will tell you, hear me”. He places himself above Job now, as he’s the source of wisdom. Eliphaz then commences a brief history of humanity, in particular the nation of Israel.

The “wicked man writhes’ with pain all his days”, “In prosperity the destroyer comes upon him”, He seeks for bread and is already in a state of darkness. All these are direct and/or indirect declarations against Job. Job acted “defiantly against” God, was stubborn. He had tried to “cover” himself in prosperity, yet was required to live in a place of desolation.

The bottom line was that Eliphaz accused Job of deception, a hypocrite, barren of family and wealth. Everything was futile.

Before we make accusations against another saint, it’s best to wait on the Lord to confirm through Himself the accurate status. The greatest frustration is to be misunderstood and most misunderstandings come as a result of partial information.