In these chapters, we meet a fourth ‘friend’ by the name of Elihu. Elihu is the junior among the others so he has bided his time while the others speak (32:4). Elihu speaks out of a sense of anger at Job’s self justification (32:2) and the failure of the others to prove Job’s guilt, yet condemned him anyway (32:3). He believes that God gives understanding to all, so it is his turn to share (32:8-11). Job’s main issue has been a desire to know why God has afflicted him. The others tried to get Job to admit that his sin was the cause, but Elihu’s approach is to say that God doesn’t owe Job an answer: “God is greater than man. Why do you complain to him that he answers none of man’s words?” (33:12-13 NIV). Job should stop asking why, should stop trying to prove his innocence and consider that perhaps God is allowing Job to suffer to keep him from sin (33:16-22). Elihu wants Job to recognize God’s mercy. God offers escape from “the pit” and “the messengers of death” (33:22, NIV) by sending a mediator to intercede (33:23–24). If Job will accept the mercy of God he will be restored and “the light of life may shine on him” (33:30, NIV). Will Job accept the words of Elihu? (33:31-33). Commentators are divided over Elihu. Some see him as an arrogant young man trying to make his mark, but ultimately as off base as the others. Others regard him as sincerely desiring to help Job find his answer. Ironically, when the end of the matter comes, neither Job nor God give Elihu any regard at all.
Whether Elihu is right or wrong, misguided or sincere, he does offer an important contribution regarding the mercy of God. We do not know all the purposes that lie behind suffering. If it is due to sin, then God’s mercy calls us to repent. If it is a preventative measure, then God’s mercy is protecting us. God “wants all…to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4, NIV) and will take whatever steps necessary to lead a person to that salvation. Sometimes suffering is just the result of living in a fallen world; even then, God showers us with his mercy to see us through to a brighter day.
Rev. Chad C. Fernald
