Job 20:13

though he cannot bear to let it go and keeps it in his mouth,

Study Bible

though he cannot bear to let it go
This phrase reflects the deep attachment to sin or wrongdoing, illustrating the struggle of letting go of sinful pleasures. In the context of Job, Zophar is speaking about the wicked who cling to their iniquity. This can be connected to the broader biblical theme of sin's enticement and the difficulty of repentance, as seen in Proverbs 5:3-4, where the allure of sin is compared to honey, sweet at first but ultimately bitter. The imagery suggests an internal battle, highlighting the human tendency to hold onto sin despite knowing its destructive end.

and keeps it in his mouth
The metaphor of keeping something in the mouth suggests savoring or relishing sin, akin to how one might enjoy a tasty morsel. This imagery is used to describe the temporary pleasure derived from sin, which is ultimately fleeting and unsatisfying. In the cultural context of the ancient Near East, oral imagery often conveyed ideas of consumption and satisfaction, emphasizing the intimate and personal nature of sin. This can be paralleled with James 1:14-15, where desire, when conceived, gives birth to sin, and sin, when fully grown, brings forth death. The phrase underscores the deceptive nature of sin, which promises satisfaction but leads to spiritual decay.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Zophar the Naamathite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. Zophar is known for his harsh and direct speeches, often accusing Job of wrongdoing.

2. Job
The central figure of the Book of Job, a man known for his righteousness and suffering. Job is tested by God through severe trials.

3. The Dialogue
This verse is part of Zophar's second speech to Job, where he describes the fate of the wicked, implying that Job's suffering is due to hidden sin.

Teaching Points

The Deceptive Nature of Sin
Sin can be enticing and pleasurable, much like a sweet morsel kept in the mouth. However, its temporary pleasure leads to long-term consequences.

The Importance of Repentance
Holding onto sin, as described by Zophar, prevents true repentance and restoration with God. We must be willing to let go of sin to experience God's grace.

Guarding the Heart and Mind
We must be vigilant about what we allow to linger in our thoughts and hearts. Just as one might savor a morsel, we can inadvertently savor sinful thoughts or desires.

The Role of Accountability
Zophar's speech, though misguided in its application to Job, reminds us of the importance of accountability in our spiritual walk. We need others to help us see our blind spots.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Zophar's description of the wicked savoring sin challenge us to examine our own lives for hidden sins we might be holding onto?

2. In what ways can we apply the wisdom of Proverbs 20:17 to avoid the deceitfulness of sin in our daily lives?

3. How does the concept of sin leading to death in James 1:14-15 reinforce the message in Job 20:13?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are not cherishing sin in our hearts, as described by Zophar?

5. How can we create a community of accountability that helps us stay vigilant against the allure of sin, as suggested by the broader context of Zophar's speech?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 20:17
This verse speaks about the deceitfulness of sin, similar to how Zophar describes the wicked savoring sin but ultimately facing consequences.

Psalm 10:7
This passage describes the wicked as having mouths full of cursing and deceit, paralleling Zophar's depiction of the wicked cherishing sin.

James 1:14-15
James discusses how desire leads to sin, and sin leads to death, which aligns with Zophar's warning about the consequences of cherishing sin.