The Book of Job

Mike Johnson

The book of Job is genuinely significant and useful. It is a part of a category of Old Testament books known as “Poetry.” It deals with the problem of pain and suffering.

The book of Job shows us some essential facts about God, Satan, and the problem of pain. The fact that God inspired its writing shows He cares for His children. The book serves several purposes. It helps us to see who God is and shows us the kind of trust He wants His people to have. It also reveals God’s favor towards His followers and His absolute control over Satan. Finally, the book answers questions about why a righteous person may suffer while someone evil enjoys health and prosperity. 

The title of the book is “Job,” who is the main character. Job was not a fictitious character but a real person. He is called “upright” and is called “one who feared God.” Nevertheless, he had to go through a difficult time of pain and suffering, even thinking God had turned His back on him.

The human author of the book is unknown. Many think Solomon wrote the book, or at least someone contemporary with him wrote it. If this is the case, the writing took place around 950 B.C. Job lived (most likely) during the general time of Abraham. Some have suggested he lived between the events of the tower of Babel and the birth of Abraham.

We can learn much from the book of Job. If you have not read it lately, you should do so.