Job 20:4-5 Know you not this of old, since man was placed on earth,… I. THE TRIUMPH MENTIONED. The term used by Zophar is of very general meaning. It signifies the joy which is displayed by the conqueror on account of the successes which have attended him. It is to be understood as referring to the boast which ungodly men often make of their achievements. The term applies to the general conduct of all those who set God's laws at defiance, and by their life show who take pleasure in the ways of sin. The enjoyment of transgression is the triumph of ungodliness. II. THE SHORTNESS OF THE TRIUMPHS OF MAN. 1. In regard to the object itself. It is a conquest which circumstances put into their hands. But see how unstable is war. 2. The expression is also true as it regards the term of human life. The period allotted to man, even the longest period, is only a small portion of time. Death will soon overtake the ungodly, and put a final termination to all his plans and purposes; he will hurry the soul before the Judge of quick and dead, to give account of the deeds done in the body. Then will appear the value of the one thing needful. This subject teaches the people of God not to despond, not to judge or conclude that the wicked are happy, because they seem to prosper and triumph. It teaches the believer the obligations under which he lies to God for grace — grace which has enlightened his mind — grace which has led him to Christ, to believe in Him, and find mercy and peace — grace which has guided his steps, and enabled him to bear patiently all the ills of life, in the hope of a triumph forever. (F. Rogers Blackley.) Parallel Verses KJV: Knowest thou not this of old, since man was placed upon earth,WEB: Don't you know this from old time, since man was placed on earth, |
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