Job 4:17
Can a mortal be more righteous than God, or a man more pure than his Maker?
Can a mortal
The term "mortal" refers to human beings, emphasizing our finite and perishable nature. In Hebrew, the word often used is "enosh," which underscores human frailty and mortality. This sets the stage for understanding the vast chasm between human limitations and divine perfection. Historically, this question challenges the ancient belief systems that often placed humans in a position of striving for divine-like status, reminding us of our humble position before an omnipotent Creator.

be more righteous
The concept of "righteousness" in Hebrew is "tsaddiq," which implies being just, lawful, and morally upright. This rhetorical question highlights the impossibility of surpassing God's perfect standard of righteousness. In the biblical context, righteousness is not merely about actions but also about one's relationship with God. The verse invites reflection on the futility of human efforts to achieve righteousness apart from divine grace.

than God
The word "God" here is "Elohim," a plural form that denotes majesty and power. It is a reminder of God's supreme authority and moral perfection. The comparison underscores the theological truth that God is the ultimate standard of righteousness, and human beings, in their fallen state, cannot attain such purity on their own. This serves as a humbling reminder of our need for God's mercy and guidance.

or a man
The term "man" in this context is "adam," which is often used to denote humanity collectively. It recalls the creation narrative where man is formed from the dust, emphasizing our origin and dependence on God. This phrase invites readers to consider the inherent limitations and imperfections of human nature, contrasting it with the divine nature of God.

more pure
"Pure" in Hebrew is "zak," which conveys the idea of being clean, innocent, or free from moral corruption. The rhetorical question challenges the notion that any human can achieve a state of purity that exceeds that of their Creator. It points to the biblical understanding that true purity is a divine attribute, and humans can only aspire to it through God's sanctifying work.

than his Maker
The term "Maker" refers to God as the Creator, the one who forms and shapes humanity. In Hebrew, this is often "Asah," which means to fashion or create. This phrase emphasizes God's role as the originator of life and the one who imparts purpose and meaning. It serves as a reminder of our dependence on God for our existence and moral compass, reinforcing the idea that we cannot surpass the purity and righteousness of the One who made us.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Eliphaz the Temanite
One of Job's three friends who comes to comfort him. Eliphaz is the speaker in this verse, offering his perspective on Job's suffering.

2. Job
A wealthy and righteous man who experiences severe trials and suffering. The book of Job explores his responses and the dialogues with his friends.

3. Teman
A region in Edom, known for its wise men. Eliphaz is identified as a Temanite, suggesting he is considered wise.

4. God
The Creator and ultimate judge of righteousness, whose nature and justice are central themes in the book of Job.

5. The Heavenly Court
The setting of the initial chapters of Job, where God and Satan discuss Job's faithfulness, setting the stage for the events that follow.
Teaching Points
Understanding Human Limitations
Recognize that humans, by nature, cannot surpass God's righteousness. This humbles us and reminds us of our need for God's grace.

The Nature of God
Reflect on God's perfect righteousness and purity. This understanding should lead us to worship and trust in His justice and wisdom.

The Role of Suffering
Consider how suffering can lead to deeper insights into God's character and our own limitations, as seen in Job's account.

The Importance of Humility
Embrace humility in our spiritual journey, acknowledging that our understanding and righteousness are limited compared to God's.

Seeking God's Wisdom
In times of confusion or suffering, seek God's wisdom rather than relying solely on human understanding, as Eliphaz's counsel demonstrates the limitations of human reasoning.
Bible Study Questions
1. How does Eliphaz's question in Job 4:17 challenge our understanding of human righteousness compared to God's?

2. In what ways does the book of Job encourage us to trust in God's justice, even when we don't understand our circumstances?

3. How can acknowledging our limitations in righteousness lead to a deeper reliance on God's grace and mercy?

4. What are some practical ways we can cultivate humility in our daily lives, recognizing our need for God's wisdom?

5. How do other scriptures, such as Romans 3:23 and Isaiah 64:6, reinforce the message of Job 4:17 about human imperfection and divine righteousness?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Genesis 18:25
This verse questions whether the Judge of all the earth will do right, paralleling the theme of divine justice and righteousness.

Isaiah 64:6
This passage speaks to human righteousness being like filthy rags, emphasizing the disparity between human and divine purity.

Romans 3:23
This verse highlights that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, reinforcing the idea that no human can be more righteous than God.

Psalm 51:5
David acknowledges his sinful nature from birth, aligning with the theme of human imperfection compared to God's holiness.
Man Compared with GodGeorge Hutcheson.Job 4:17
On HumilityA. Stifling, L. L. D.Job 4:17
Eliphaz as a Natural ReligionistHomilistJob 4:1-21
The Error of EliphazD. J. Burrell, D. D.Job 4:1-21
The First ColloquySamuel Cox, D. D.Job 4:1-21
The Message of the Three FriendsRobert A. Watson, D. D.Job 4:1-21
The Condemnation of Man in Presence of the Divine HolinessE. Johnson Job 4:12-21
Super Sensuous PhenomenaT. T. Waterman.Job 4:13-17
The Discourse of the ApparitionHenry Melvill, B. D.Job 4:13-17
The SpectreF. J. Austin.Job 4:13-17
The Spectre's QuestionE. Paxton Hood.Job 4:13-17
A Message from the UnseenW.F. Adeney Job 4:17-21
People
Eliphaz, Job
Places
Uz
Topics
Clean, Cleaner, Maker, Mankind, Mortal, Pure, Purer, Righteous, Upright
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Job 4:17

     1125   God, righteousness
     8321   perfection, divine
     8326   purity, moral and spiritual
     8825   self-righteousness, and gospel

Library
November 17 Evening
Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.--GAL. 6:7. They that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same.--They have sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind.--He that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption. To him that soweth righteousness shall be a sure reward.--He that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let
Anonymous—Daily Light on the Daily Path

Whether the Evil of Fault Can be in the Angels?
Objection 1: It would seem that there can be no evil of fault in the angels. For there can be no evil except in things which are in potentiality, as is said by the Philosopher (Metaph. ix, text. 19), because the subject of privation is a being in potentiality. But the angels have not being in potentiality, since they are subsisting forms. Therefore there can be no evil in them. Objection 2: Further, the angels are higher than the heavenly bodies. But philosophers say that there cannot be evil in
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Human Nature was More Assumable by the Son of God than any Other Nature?
Objection 1: It would seem that human nature is not more capable of being assumed by the Son of God than any other nature. For Augustine says (Ep. ad Volusianum cxxxvii): "In deeds wrought miraculously the whole reason of the deed is the power of the doer." Now the power of God Who wrought the Incarnation, which is a most miraculous work, is not limited to one nature, since the power of God is infinite. Therefore human nature is not more capable of being assumed than any other creature. Objection
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether the Contemplative Life is Continuous?
Objection 1: It would seem that the contemplative life is not continuous. For the contemplative life consists essentially in things pertaining to the intellect. Now all the intellectual perfections of this life will be made void, according to 1 Cor. 13:8, "Whether prophecies shall be made void, or tongues shall cease, or knowledge shall be destroyed." Therefore the contemplative life is made void. Objection 2: Further, a man tastes the sweetness of contemplation by snatches and for a short time only:
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether the Sin against the Holy Ghost Can be Forgiven?
Objection 1: It would seem that the sin against the Holy Ghost can be forgiven. For Augustine says (De Verb. Dom., Serm. lxxi): "We should despair of no man, so long as Our Lord's patience brings him back to repentance." But if any sin cannot be forgiven, it would be possible to despair of some sinners. Therefore the sin against the Holy Ghost can be forgiven. Objection 2: Further, no sin is forgiven, except through the soul being healed by God. But "no disease is incurable to an all-powerful physician,"
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether Christ Received Knowledge from the Angels?
Objection 1: It would seem that Christ received knowledge from the angels. For it is written (Lk. 22:43) that "there appeared to Him an angel from heaven, strengthening Him." But we are strengthened by the comforting words of a teacher, according to Job 4:3,4: "Behold thou hast taught many and hast strengthened the weary hand. Thy words have confirmed them that were staggering." Therefore Christ was taught by angels. Objection 2: Further, Dionysius says (Coel. Hier. iv): "For I see that even Jesus---the
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

The Difference Between Union and Rapture. What Rapture Is. The Blessing it is to the Soul. The Effects of It.
1. I wish I could explain, with the help of God, wherein union differs from rapture, or from transport, or from flight of the spirit, as they speak, or from a trance, which are all one. [1] I mean, that all these are only different names for that one and the same thing, which is also called ecstasy. [2] It is more excellent than union, the fruits of it are much greater, and its other operations more manifold; for union is uniform in the beginning, the middle, and the end, and is so also interiorly.
Teresa of Avila—The Life of St. Teresa of Jesus

God Far Above Creatures. Job 4:17-21.
God far above creatures. Job 4:17-21. Shall the vile race of flesh and blood Contend with their Creator God? Shall mortal worms presume to be More holy, wise, or just than he? Behold, he puts his trust in none Of all the spirits round his throne: Their natures, when compared with his, Are neither holy, just, nor wise. But how much meaner things are they Who spring from dust, and dwell in clay! Touched by the finger of thy wrath, We faint and vanish like the moth. From night to day, from day to
Isaac Watts—The Psalms and Hymns of Isaac Watts

What is Meant by "Altogether Lovely"
Let us consider this excellent expression, and particularly reflect on what is contained in it, and you shall find this expression "altogether lovely." First, It excludes all unloveliness and disagreeableness from Jesus Christ. As a theologian long ago said, "There is nothing in him which is not loveable." The excellencies of Jesus Christ are perfectly exclusive of all their opposites; there is nothing of a contrary property or quality found in him to contaminate or devaluate his excellency. And
John Flavel—Christ Altogether Lovely

Whether Every Punishment is Inflicted for a Sin?
Objection 1: It would seem that not every punishment is inflicted for a sin. For it is written (Jn. 9:3, 2) about the man born blind: "Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents . . . that he should be born blind." In like manner we see that many children, those also who have been baptized, suffer grievous punishments, fevers, for instance, diabolical possession, and so forth, and yet there is no sin in them after they have been baptized. Moreover before they are baptized, there is no more sin
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Whether after the Resurrection the Saints Will See God with the Eyes of the Body? [*Cf. Fp, Q , a ]
Objection 1: It would seem that after the resurrection the saints will see God with the eyes of the body. Because the glorified eye has greater power than one that is not glorified. Now the blessed Job saw God with his eyes (Job 42:5): "With the hearing of the ear, I have heard Thee, but now my eye seeth Thee." Much more therefore will the glorified eye be able to see God in His essence. Objection 2: Further, it is written (Job 19:26): "In my flesh I shall see God my Saviour [Vulg.: 'my God']." Therefore
Saint Thomas Aquinas—Summa Theologica

Necessity of Contemplating the Judgment-Seat of God, in Order to be Seriously Convinced of the Doctrine of Gratuitous Justification.
1. Source of error on the subject of Justification. Sophists speak as if the question were to be discussed before some human tribunal. It relates to the majesty and justice of God. Hence nothing accepted without absolute perfection. Passages confirming this doctrine. If we descend to the righteousness of the Law, the curse immediately appears. 2. Source of hypocritical confidence. Illustrated by a simile. Exhortation. Testimony of Job, David, and Paul. 3. Confession of Augustine and Bernard. 4. Another
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

Certain Heavenly Secrets, visions, and Revelations. The Effects of them in Her Soul.
1. One night I was so unwell that I thought I might be excused making my prayer; so I took my rosary, that I might employ myself in vocal prayer, trying not to be recollected in my understanding, though outwardly I was recollected, being in my oratory. These little precautions are of no use when our Lord will have it otherwise. I remained there but a few moments thus, when I was rapt in spirit with such violence that I could make no resistance whatever. It seemed to me that I was taken up to heaven;
Teresa of Avila—The Life of St. Teresa of Jesus

Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners:
A BRIEF AND FAITHFUL RELATION OF THE EXCEEDING MERCY OF GOD IN CHRIST TO HIS POOR SERVANT, JOHN BUNYAN; WHEREIN IS PARTICULARLY SHOWED THE MANNER OF HIS CONVERSION, HIS SIGHT AND TROUBLE FOR SIN, HIS DREADFUL TEMPTATIONS, ALSO HOW HE DESPAIRED OF GOD'S MERCY, AND HOW THE LORD AT LENGTH THROUGH CHRIST DID DELIVER HIM FROM ALL THE GUILT AND TERROR THAT LAY UPON HIM. Whereunto is added a brief relation of his call to the work of the ministry, of his temptations therein, as also what he hath met with
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

The Promises of the Law and the Gospel Reconciled.
1. Brief summary of Chapters 15 and 16. Why justification is denied to works. Argument of opponents founded on the promises of the law. The substance of this argument. Answer. Those who would be justified before God must be exempted from the power of the law. How this is done. 2. Confirmation of the answer ab impossibili, and from the testimony of an Apostle and of David. 3. Answer to the objection, by showing why these promises were given. Refutation of the sophistical distinction between the intrinsic
John Calvin—The Institutes of the Christian Religion

On the Animals
The birds are the saints, because they fly to the higher heart; in the gospel: and he made great branches that the birds of the air might live in their shade. [Mark 4:32] Flying is the death of the saints in God or the knowledge of the Scriptures; in the psalm: I shall fly and I shall be at rest. [Ps. 54(55):7 Vulgate] The wings are the two testaments; in Ezekiel: your body will fly with two wings of its own. [Ez. 1:23] The feathers are the Scriptures; in the psalm: the wings of the silver dove.
St. Eucherius of Lyons—The Formulae of St. Eucherius of Lyons

The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit as Revealed in his Names.
At least twenty-five different names are used in the Old and New Testaments in speaking of the Holy Spirit. There is the deepest significance in these names. By the careful study of them, we find a wonderful revelation of the Person and work of the Holy Spirit. I. The Spirit. The simplest name by which the Holy Spirit is mentioned in the Bible is that which stands at the head of this paragraph--"The Spirit." This name is also used as the basis of other names, so we begin our study with this.
R. A. Torrey—The Person and Work of The Holy Spirit

A Few Sighs from Hell;
or, The Groans of the Damned Soul: or, An Exposition of those Words in the Sixteenth of Luke, Concerning the Rich Man and the Beggar WHEREIN IS DISCOVERED THE LAMENTABLE STATE OF THE DAMNED; THEIR CRIES, THEIR DESIRES IN THEIR DISTRESSES, WITH THE DETERMINATION OF GOD UPON THEM. A GOOD WARNING WORD TO SINNERS, BOTH OLD AND YOUNG, TO TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION BETIMES, AND TO SEEK, BY FAITH IN JESUS CHRIST, TO AVOID, LEST THEY COME INTO THE SAME PLACE OF TORMENT. Also, a Brief Discourse touching the
John Bunyan—The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3

Annunciation to Joseph of the Birth of Jesus.
(at Nazareth, b.c. 5.) ^A Matt. I. 18-25. ^a 18 Now the birth [The birth of Jesus is to handled with reverential awe. We are not to probe into its mysteries with presumptuous curiosity. The birth of common persons is mysterious enough (Eccl. ix. 5; Ps. cxxxix. 13-16), and we do not well, therefore, if we seek to be wise above what is written as to the birth of the Son of God] of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When his mother Mary had been betrothed [The Jews were usually betrothed ten or twelve months
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Job
The book of Job is one of the great masterpieces of the world's literature, if not indeed the greatest. The author was a man of superb literary genius, and of rich, daring, and original mind. The problem with which he deals is one of inexhaustible interest, and his treatment of it is everywhere characterized by a psychological insight, an intellectual courage, and a fertility and brilliance of resource which are nothing less than astonishing. Opinion has been divided as to how the book should be
John Edgar McFadyen—Introduction to the Old Testament

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