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Job 35:3 KJV
For thou saidst, What advantage will it be unto thee? and, What profit shall I have, if I be cleansed from my sin?
Job 35:3 Bible Commentary
Commentary on Job 35:3
Job 35:3 states, "For you say, ‘What advantage will it be to you? What profit will we have if we pray to Him?’" This verse captures a pivotal moment in the discourse between Job and his friend Elihu, who rebukes Job for questioning the value of serving God.
Contextual Analysis
The Book of Job is not just a story of suffering; it is also a profound exploration of the nature of God, human suffering, and righteousness. The dialogue between Job and his companions serves as the framework for understanding the greater themes of the text.
Elihu's Response
Elihu, representing a youthful and zealous perspective, stands in stark contrast to Job’s despondency and to the unhelpful counsel of his older friends. The verse serves as Elihu's challenge to Job’s assumptions about the justice of God and the efficacy of prayer.
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Matthew Henry's Commentary:
Henry points out that Elihu addresses a fundamental misconception: that God is indifferent to human prayer or even that He requires human assistance. Elihu underscores the futility of questioning God’s motives, reminding us that God's ways are higher than our understanding.
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Albert Barnes' Notes:
Barnes highlights the rhetorical nature of Elihu’s question. By challenging Job, Elihu is prompting him to reconsider his perspective about the relationship between humanity and the Divine. He insists that God's justice is paramount and that prayer is not a mercenary transaction but rather an expression of faith.
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Adam Clarke's Commentary:
Clarke provides an insightful perspective on the phrase "what profit will we have if we pray to Him?" He interprets it as a reflection of human skepticism regarding the benefits of obedience and faith in God, suggesting that Job’s pain made him doubt the value of prayer and worship.
The Nature of Prayer
This verse invites us to reflect on the true nature of prayer. It is not merely a transactional approach to gaining favor from God but rather a vital connection to the Creator.
Through Elihu’s perspective, we learn that prayer serves to align our will with God's, fostering intimacy rather than seeking immediate results. This is supported by the teachings throughout scripture that emphasize God’s relational aspect with humanity.
The Human Condition
The rhetorical question posed by Elihu reveals the struggle many face in pain and suffering. The notion that one's prayers may not yield any visible results leads to despair. Henry underscores the importance of perseverance in faith. He suggests that although our circumstances may lead us to feel abandoned, God’s attention to our struggles is unwavering.
God's Sovereignty and Human Understanding
This dialogue reveals not only Job’s state of mind but also the tension between divine sovereignty and human understanding. Elihu’s assertion that our human perspective limits our understanding of God's greater purpose is critical. Barnes emphasizes that we often fail to see beyond our immediate conditions and the finite reality of our lives.
Comfort for the Afflicted
For pastors and theologians, Job 35:3 serves as a reminder that congregants may struggle with similar questions in their lives. It provides an opportunity to teach the importance of enduring faith, even when the outcomes of prayer are not apparent.
Moreover, this verse encourages a compassionate pastoral response. Acknowledging the doubts and fears experienced by the suffering is essential in guiding them towards a deeper understanding of God’s love and purpose.
Concluding Thoughts
In conclusion, Job 35:3 engages us on multiple levels—doctrinal, existential, and pastoral. It serves as a profound reminder of the depths of human despair and the pursuit of divine understanding. Both students and scholars must wrestle with the implications of Elihu’s challenge for their theology and faith practices.
As we reflect on this scripture, let it prompt us not only to examine our own questions and doubts but also to appreciate the vastness of God's wisdom that often surpasses our understanding.