Commentary on Job 37:5

Text of Job 37:5 (KJV): "God thundereth marvellously with his voice; great things doeth he, which we cannot comprehend."

Introduction

The Book of Job presents a profound exploration of human suffering, divine sovereignty, and the mystery of God's ways. In Job 37:5, we encounter a powerful declaration of God's authority and the awe-inspiring nature of His voice in creation, encapsulating the themes of divine omnipotence and human limitations in understanding.

Contextual Background

This verse is part of a speech by Elihu, the youngest of Job’s friends, who seeks to convey the greatness of God in a time when Job is questioning the justice of his suffering. Elihu emphasizes God's divine communication through nature, often manifesting through phenomena such as thunder.

The Complexity of Divine Communication

Elihu begins by highlighting the majesty of God's voice. Through nature, particularly through the thunder, God communicates His grandeur and majesty:

• Divine Majesty: Elihu's reference to God "thundereth marvellously" signifies not just physical phenomena but also a metaphorical expression of God’s power and authority.
• Impressive Works: "Great things doeth he" reflects on God's deeds in creation, which surpass human understanding, resonating with Psalm 19:1, which states that the heavens declare the glory of God.

Insights from Public Domain Commentaries

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry notes that Elihu speaks on God's behalf, emphasizing how God's majestic voice in nature reveals His intentions and authority. Henry views the thunder as not merely a fearful event but a manifestation of God's omnipotence:

• Divine Synergy: Henry draws attention to the harmony between God's voice and the operations of the world, inferring that earthly creatures fail to perceive the full reality of God's dealings.
• A Call to Awe: The verse beckons humanity to recognize their limitations in understanding God's workings, inviting a reverence for His mysterious ways.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes provides a theological perspective on the unsearchable nature of God's works. He highlights that Elihu's assertion that "great things doeth he" encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty:

• Trust amidst Mystery: Barnes underscores that even when situations appear incomprehensible, it is essential to remain steadfast in faith, recognizing that God's purposes may be beyond human grasp.
• Nature as Revelation: The natural world, according to Barnes, serves as a primary means through which God reveals His character, fortifying the relationship between the Creator and the created.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke reflects on the poetic and profound essence of God's communication through thunder, emphasizing His transcendence:

• Human Limitations: Clarke asserts that while humanity may struggle to comprehend the depths of divine action, it is crucial to acknowledge that God's plans and methodologies are infinitely higher than our thoughts.
• The Role of Thunder: He posits that thunder not only illustrates God's power but serves as a reminder of His active governance over the world, invoking both fear and reverence.

The Theological Implications

Job 37:5 profoundly encapsulates several theological themes:

• Divine Sovereignty: The verse asserts God’s control over creation, emphasizing His voice as an instrument of authority. This directs attention to how God engages with the world, which is crucial for developing a robust doctrine of providence.
• The Mystery of God’s Ways: The acknowledgment of uncomprehended "great things" serves as a humbling reminder of human limitations and the mysteries of divine providence. This is central to the understanding that faith often requires trust in unseen workings.
• Call to Reverence: The portrayal of God's voice reminds believers of their need for reverence and awe toward the Creator. In a culture that often trivializes divine matters, this verse urges a return to humility.

Conclusion

Job 37:5 serves as a profound reminder of God's voice echoing through the wonders of creation. For pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars, it challenges the community of faith to recognize the depth of God's wisdom and the complexity of His interaction with the world. The insights from various commentators enrich our understanding of this passage, urging us to dwell in awe of God’s greatness, accept our limitations, and trust in His sovereign hand guiding all things.