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Job 16:20 KJV
My friends scorn me: but mine eye poureth out tears unto God.
Job 16:20 Bible Commentary
Commentary on Job 16:20
Verse Context: Job 16:20 states:
"My Intercessor is my friend as my eye pours out tears to God; he pleads with God as one pleads for a friend." (NIV)
This verse captures the heart of Job’s plea to God amid his profound suffering. It embodies the essence of Job's desire for an advocate, a mediator, who would intercede on his behalf.
Insights from Public Domain Commentaries
Matthew Henry's Commentary
Matthew Henry emphasizes the deep sorrow Job experiences as he feels overwhelmed by both his circumstances and the accusations from his friends. In this verse, Job articulates his need for a friend—specifically, a divine advocate who would understand his plight and represent him before God.
Henry notes that Job acknowledges God as the ultimate judge, yet he longs for a mediator who can sympathize with his pain. He reflects on the importance of having someone who can intercede and present one's case with compassion, thereby reinforcing the human need for relational support in trials.
Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible
According to Albert Barnes, the phrase "My Intercessor is my friend" highlights a dual role of the figure Job yearns for. Barnes interprets "Intercessor" as one who advocates for Job in the court of heaven. He underscores the poignant contrast between Job's earthly relationships and his desired connection with a heavenly mediator.
- Divine Mediation: Barnes points out that Job’s longing for an intercessor points to the broader biblical theme of divine mediation, culminating in the person of Christ in the New Testament.
- Human Experience: He comments on the significance of expressing vulnerability and the desire for advocacy during suffering, which resonates with many believers facing difficulties.
Barnes further explains how Job’s lament reveals the universal human condition—our need for advocacy amidst trials and the assurance of having someone plead our case before God.
Adam Clarke's Commentary
Adam Clarke elaborates on the emotional aspect of Job’s declaration. He indicates that Job is in a state of despair, feeling isolated from both God and man. Clarke highlights the meaning behind Job’s identification of an 'Intercessor’ as indicative of a deeper longing for reconciliation with God.
- Scriptural Reflection: Clarke connects Job's situation to the later revelation of Christ as the perfect intercessor, emphasizing the significance of Jesus as both a sacrificial lamb and advocate for humanity.
- Companionship in Suffering: He draws a parallel between Job’s longing for companionship in affliction and the need for the Christian community to support one another through trials.
Clarke also points to Job's faith amidst suffering, demonstrating that while he feels forsaken, he still expresses a hope for redemption and vindication from God.
Theological Reflections
Job 16:20 offers rich theological implications. It not only depicts the human condition regarding suffering and advocacy but also foreshadows the ultimate intercessor, Jesus Christ. The verse serves as a profound reminder of the necessity of intercession in addressing the anguish of suffering.
Intercessory Prayer
This passage invites deep reflection on the role of intercessory prayer within the faith community. As Job yearns for a friend and advocate, Christians are called to uphold one another in prayer, echoing the need Job expressed in his moment of despair.
The Nature of God
This verse also underscores God's justice and mercy. Job's desire for an intercessor implies a trust in God’s character, knowing that He is not indifferent to human suffering but rather involved and caring. This dual aspect of God as both a judge and a compassionate listener reveals the complexity of divine-human interaction.
Application for Pastors and Theologians
- Encouragement in Ministry: Pastors can take cues from Job’s honesty in lamentation to encourage congregants to articulate their pain while fostering a community of prayer and mutual support.
- Teaching on Christ's Intercession: The theological concept of Jesus as our high priest and intercessor can be elaborated upon, creating a bridge between Old Testament longing and New Testament fulfillment.
- Empowering Faith: This passage can empower believers to actively engage in both personal and communal intercessory prayer, reinforcing the biblical exhortation to bear one another's burdens.
Conclusion
Job 16:20 provides profound insights into the human condition, particularly facing suffering and the need for divine advocacy. Through the integrated perspectives of Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke, we see an intricate tapestry of theology that resonates through centuries: a reminder of the universal cry for companionship and mediation before God.