Overview

Job 35 continues Elihu’s discourse, addressing Job’s earlier assertions about the futility of serving God and the seeming indifference of God to human actions. Elihu challenges Job’s perception by emphasizing that God’s transcendence is not diminished or enhanced by human righteousness or sinfulness. Instead, Elihu points out that humanity’s actions primarily affect fellow human beings rather than God Himself. Elihu redirects the focus from Job’s grievances to the majesty and sovereignty of God, urging a proper understanding of the Creator-creature relationship.

Theologically, Job 35 highlights the importance of humility in approaching God and the need to trust His purposes, even when His actions seem inscrutable. Elihu argues that Job’s complaints fail to account for the vastness of God’s wisdom and the complexity of His governance over creation. This chapter challenges readers to consider their motivations in serving God and to recognize that His worthiness of worship is independent of human circumstances. Elihu’s speech invites believers to align their perspective with God’s truth and to trust in His justice and character, even in the face of unanswered questions.

Historical and Literary Context

Job 35 is part of Elihu’s larger monologue, which acts as a bridge between Job’s dialogues with his friends and God’s direct response. Historically, the chapter reflects the ancient Near Eastern understanding of divine transcendence and the Creator-creature distinction. In this cultural context, it was widely recognized that humanity’s actions could not alter the essence of a deity’s power or character. Elihu builds on this idea to underscore God’s greatness and self-sufficiency.

Literarily, the chapter employs rhetorical questions and poetic parallelism to make its points. Elihu’s tone is both corrective and instructive, as he seeks to address Job’s complaints and redirect his focus toward God’s majesty. The chapter’s poetic structure enhances its reflective nature, inviting readers to ponder the deeper implications of Elihu’s arguments. Job 35 serves as a theological and literary prelude to God’s speeches, preparing the way for a fuller revelation of God’s character and purposes.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

Job 35 emphasizes the transcendence and self-sufficiency of God. Elihu’s assertion that human righteousness and sin do not alter God’s nature reflects the biblical truth that God is independent of His creation. This aligns with passages like Acts 17:24-25, which describe God as the Creator who is not served by human hands as if He needed anything.

The chapter also highlights the relational and ethical dimensions of human actions. Elihu points out that human deeds primarily affect other people rather than God Himself. This reflects the biblical teaching that loving God and loving others are interconnected, as seen in the two greatest commandments (Matthew 22:37-39).

Elihu critiques Job’s complaints about God’s justice, emphasizing the need for humility and trust in God’s purposes. This theme resonates with Isaiah 55:8-9, which reminds believers that God’s thoughts and ways are higher than human understanding.

Finally, the chapter invites reflection on the motivations for serving God. Elihu’s arguments challenge readers to examine whether their faith and worship are rooted in a genuine recognition of God’s worthiness or contingent on personal circumstances. This theme aligns with the broader biblical call to worship God in spirit and truth (John 4:24).

Job 35 encourages believers to trust in God’s character, approach Him with humility, and align their motivations and actions with His will. It reminds readers that God’s worthiness of worship transcends human experiences and circumstances.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Job 35:1-3

“Then Elihu said: ‘Do you think this is just? You say, “I am in the right, not God.” Yet you ask him, “What profit is it to me, and what do I gain by not sinning?”’”

Elihu begins by confronting Job’s earlier complaints, in which Job questioned the value of righteousness in light of his suffering. Elihu interprets Job’s words as implying that serving God yields no benefit, an attitude he seeks to correct. This verse challenges readers to reflect on their motivations for serving God, emphasizing that true worship is not transactional but rooted in God’s inherent worthiness. Application: Believers are encouraged to examine their hearts, asking whether their faith is based on circumstances or a genuine desire to honor God.

Job 35:4-7

“I would like to reply to you and to your friends with you. Look up at the heavens and see; gaze at the clouds so high above you. If you sin, how does that affect him? If your sins are many, what does that do to him? If you are righteous, what do you give to him, or what does he receive from your hand?”

Elihu emphasizes God’s transcendence, illustrating that human actions do not diminish or enhance His being. By pointing to the heavens, Elihu reminds Job of God’s greatness and self-sufficiency. This aligns with Psalm 50:10-12, where God declares that the world and everything in it belong to Him, affirming His independence from human deeds. Application: Believers are called to recognize that God’s worthiness is not contingent on their actions and to approach Him with reverence and humility, acknowledging His supreme sovereignty.

Job 35:8-9

“Your wickedness only affects humans like yourself, and your righteousness only other people. People cry out under a load of oppression; they plead for relief from the arm of the powerful.”

Elihu shifts the focus from God to humanity, emphasizing that human actions primarily impact relationships with others rather than God’s nature. Wickedness harms individuals and communities, while righteousness benefits those around us. This reflects the biblical teaching that love for God and love for others are interconnected (Matthew 22:37-39). Application: Believers are reminded to live in a way that reflects God’s justice and love, seeking to bless others through righteous living and advocating for those who suffer under oppression.

Job 35:10-11

“But no one says, “Where is God my Maker, who gives songs in the night, who teaches us more than he teaches the beasts of the earth and makes us wiser than the birds in the sky?””

Elihu laments that people often cry out for relief without seeking God or acknowledging His role as Creator and Sustainer. He highlights God’s provision, wisdom, and care, contrasting humanity’s unique ability to know and worship God with the instincts of animals. This aligns with Psalm 42:8, where God’s love provides a song in the night. Application: Believers are encouraged to seek God in their trials, recognizing His presence and provision even in difficult circumstances.

Job 35:12-13

“He does not answer when people cry out because of the arrogance of the wicked. Indeed, God does not listen to their empty plea; the Almighty pays no attention to it.”

Elihu explains that God does not respond to cries born out of arrogance or self-centeredness. This reflects the biblical principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Application: Believers are challenged to approach God with humility and sincerity, trusting His timing and purposes even when answers seem delayed.

Job 35:14

“How much less, then, will he listen when you say that you do not see him, that your case is before him, and you must wait for him,”

Elihu rebukes Job for implying that God is indifferent or unresponsive, reminding him that God’s justice operates on His timetable, not human expectations. This aligns with Isaiah 40:31, which encourages believers to wait on the Lord for strength and renewal. Application: Christians are reminded to trust in God’s perfect timing and justice, finding peace in His faithfulness even when immediate answers are not evident.

Job 35:15-16

“and further, that his anger never punishes and he does not take the least notice of wickedness. So Job opens his mouth with empty talk; without knowledge he multiplies words.”

Elihu concludes by accusing Job of speaking without understanding, suggesting that Job’s complaints about God’s justice are unfounded. This echoes the broader biblical call to humility before God, as seen in Job 38:2, where God challenges Job for darkening His counsel with words without knowledge. Application: Believers are encouraged to approach God with humility and trust, refraining from presumptuous judgments about His character or actions.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Job 35 points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of humanity’s longing for understanding and justice in the face of suffering. Elihu’s emphasis on the transcendence and self-sufficiency of God reflects Christ’s role as the image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15). Jesus bridges the gap between God and humanity, providing a perfect example of righteousness and humility in His life and sacrificial death. Elihu’s critique of human pride and self-centeredness finds its resolution in Christ, who humbly submitted to the Father’s will, even to the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8). Moreover, Jesus exemplifies what Elihu calls for: seeking God with sincerity and trust rather than arrogance. In the broader redemptive story, Christ fulfills the longing for a mediator who not only represents humanity before God but also restores the relationship fractured by sin, offering redemption and eternal life.

Show How the Chapter Connects to the Father

Job 35 highlights the Father’s transcendence, sovereignty, and self-sufficiency. Elihu reminds Job that God is not dependent on humanity for His glory or righteousness, underscoring the Father’s unique role as Creator and Sustainer. The Father’s care for His creation is evident in Elihu’s mention of God as the giver of wisdom and sustenance, a reflection of His ongoing involvement in the world. The chapter also emphasizes the Father’s justice and His response to human arrogance, pointing to His holy and perfect character. Believers are invited to trust the Father’s wisdom and timing, knowing that His ways are higher than human understanding and that His purposes are ultimately for their good and His glory.

Show How the Chapter Connects to the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit’s work is implicit in Elihu’s call for humility and sincere seeking of God. The Spirit is the one who convicts humanity of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8), aligning with Elihu’s critique of human pride and self-reliance. The Spirit also empowers believers to live righteously, reflecting the love and justice of God in their relationships with others. Elihu’s emphasis on seeking God during trials resonates with the Spirit’s role as the Comforter and Guide, who leads believers into all truth (John 16:13). This chapter reminds Christians of their dependence on the Spirit to transform their hearts, enabling them to approach God with humility and trust.

Connection to God’s Love

Job 35 reveals God’s love through His patience and desire for humanity to seek Him sincerely. Although Elihu rebukes Job for his complaints, his words also reflect God’s enduring invitation for His people to turn to Him in faith and humility. The chapter underscores that God’s justice is tempered by His care for creation, as He provides wisdom, sustenance, and guidance. God’s love is ultimately demonstrated in Christ, who reconciles humanity to the Father and reveals the depth of God’s care through His life, death, and resurrection. Elihu’s call to recognize God’s greatness and trust in His purposes invites believers to rest in the assurance of God’s love, even when His ways are beyond understanding. Job 35 reminds readers that God’s love seeks to draw them closer to Him, offering hope and restoration through His justice and mercy.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “Seeking God with Humility: Recognizing His Justice and Sovereignty”

Introduction: 

Open with a relatable story of someone struggling to reconcile personal suffering with faith in God’s justice. Highlight how questions about God’s fairness and the value of righteousness are not unique to Job but resonate with many today. Introduce the main idea: Job 35 invites us to see God’s transcendence, trust His justice, and approach Him with humility, even when we do not fully understand His ways.

Main Points:

1. God’s Greatness and Self-Sufficiency (Job 35:4-7): Explain Elihu’s argument that God’s being is neither diminished by human sin nor enhanced by human righteousness. Emphasize that God is complete and self-sufficient, yet He chooses to involve Himself in our lives out of love. Transition to Acts 17:24-25, which affirms God’s independence from creation. Application: Encourage believers to worship God for who He is, not for what they hope to gain, cultivating a heart of gratitude for His grace and mercy. Example: Use the analogy of a parent who loves their child unconditionally, not because the child offers something but because the relationship is based on love.
2. The Impact of Our Actions on Others (Job 35:8-9): Highlight Elihu’s teaching that human righteousness and sin primarily affect relationships with others rather than altering God’s nature. Connect this to the biblical call to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37-39). Application: Challenge the congregation to reflect God’s love in their interactions, seeking to live righteously for the benefit of others and as a witness to God’s character. Example: Share a testimony of someone who chose integrity and kindness in a difficult situation, demonstrating the impact of righteous living on others.
3. Seeking God in Humility (Job 35:10-13): Discuss Elihu’s critique that people often cry out for relief but fail to seek God sincerely. Emphasize the importance of humility and trust in approaching God, recognizing His justice and wisdom. Transition to James 4:6-8, which calls believers to humble themselves before God and seek His presence. Application: Encourage the congregation to prioritize genuine prayer and worship, especially in times of trial, trusting in God’s purposes even when answers are delayed. Example: Use the image of a gardener who patiently tends to plants, trusting the process of growth even when results take time.
4. Trusting God’s Timing and Justice (Job 35:14-16): Explain Elihu’s reminder that God operates on His perfect timetable, not human expectations. Highlight the need to trust in God’s justice and faithfulness, even when circumstances seem unfair. Transition to Isaiah 40:31, which assures believers that waiting on the Lord renews strength. Application: Call the congregation to surrender their doubts and frustrations to God, trusting in His timing and sovereignty. Example: Share a story of someone who waited on God’s provision and found His faithfulness revealed in unexpected ways.

Conclusion: 

Summarize the key themes of Job 35: God’s greatness, the relational impact of human actions, the necessity of seeking Him with humility, and the importance of trusting His justice. Reiterate that God’s worthiness of worship is not dependent on our circumstances but on His unchanging character.

Call to Action: Challenge the congregation to examine their motivations for serving God and to approach Him with reverence and trust. Invite them to spend time in prayer this week, asking God to align their hearts with His purposes and to help them live righteously for His glory and the good of others.

Illustrations and Examples

• Modern Analogy: Compare trusting God’s justice to trusting a skilled doctor who prescribes treatment we may not understand but who ultimately works for our healing and good.
• Personal Story: Share an example of someone who learned to trust God during a season of unanswered questions or apparent injustice, finding peace in His faithfulness.
• Biblical Example: Highlight the story of Joseph, who endured suffering and betrayal but later recognized God’s sovereignty and justice in bringing about His purposes (Genesis 50:20).
• Everyday Analogy: Use the image of a compass pointing true north to illustrate how God’s justice remains constant and unchanging, even when circumstances are confusing.
• Historical Example: Reference someone like Corrie ten Boom, who trusted in God’s justice and sovereignty during immense suffering, using her story to inspire faith and trust.

Application for Today’s Christian

Christians can apply the lessons of Job 35 by cultivating a heart of humility and reverence for God’s greatness. This involves regularly reflecting on His self-sufficiency and unchanging character, worshiping Him for who He is rather than what He provides.

Believers are encouraged to focus on the relational impact of their actions, striving to live righteously for the benefit of others and as a testimony to God’s love. This includes seeking to be peacemakers, advocates for justice, and reflections of God’s mercy in their communities.

Finally, Job 35 calls Christians to trust in God’s justice and timing, especially during trials or seasons of waiting. Practical steps include committing to prayer and Scripture reading, seeking God’s presence in worship, and finding support through Christian community. By aligning their lives with God’s purposes and trusting in His sovereignty, believers can find peace and strength to persevere in faith.

Reflection Questions

1. Elihu emphasizes God’s greatness and self-sufficiency, reminding us that our righteousness or sin does not change His nature. How does this truth affect the way you approach God in worship and prayer?
2. In Job 35:8-9, Elihu highlights that our actions primarily affect other people rather than God. How can this perspective shape the way you live out your faith in relationships with others? Are there specific areas where you can demonstrate righteousness and integrity for the benefit of those around you?
3. Elihu critiques people who cry out for relief without truly seeking God. Have there been times in your life when you sought God’s help but didn’t fully trust or pursue Him? How can you cultivate a deeper and more sincere relationship with Him?
4. The chapter calls us to trust God’s justice and timing, even when His purposes are unclear. Reflect on a time when you had to wait on God. What did you learn about His character, and how can that experience encourage you in current or future challenges?
5. Job 35 challenges us to evaluate our motivations for serving God. Do you ever find yourself questioning the value of righteousness or expecting rewards for your faithfulness? How can you shift your focus to worshiping God for who He is rather than what He provides?
6. Elihu points to God as the giver of wisdom and provision, even in times of difficulty. How have you seen God’s care and guidance in your life during challenging seasons? How can you use those experiences to encourage others?
7. The chapter highlights the importance of humility in seeking God. Are there areas in your life where pride or self-reliance might be hindering your trust in Him? How can you surrender those areas to His control?