Welcome back to Bible Gateway’s weekly Look at the Book series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. Job is arguably among the oldest books in the Bible and presents a distinct literary vision of God’s sovereignty.
Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.
Summary
Job is the first book in what is known as the “books of poetry.” The books vary in literary form and cover a wide range of functions, from wisdom literature to personal prayers and hymns of worship.
- Category: Wisdom
- Theme: Suffering
- Timeline: Unknown — sometime in Genesis, around the time of Abraham
- Written: Date and author unknown
Key Verse
“I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted. — Job 42:2 (NIV)
Job’s Theodicy
Job tackles massive questions that have loomed in the minds of sufferers throughout all time. How can a good God allow righteous people to suffer?
We can take heart that while we will surely suffer, God is at work and can be trusted.
Reflect on the insights into the nature of suffering and faith, who God is and how deeply he values righteousness, and the unseen spiritual conflicts between God’s kingdom and Satan’s kingdom.
7 Day Reading Guide
(See 30-day guide below.)
- Day 1: Job 1-6
- Day 2: Job 7-12
- Day 3: Job 13-18
- Day 4: Job 19-24
- Day 5: Job 25-30
- Day 6: Job 31-36
- Day 7: Job 37-42
Reflect
As you read Job, pay close attention to the scenario set up in this book, which probably took place during the time of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference.
Chris Fann is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for Harper Christian Resources. He loves the smell ofa baseball glove, coffee, and old books. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, 2 teenage boys, and their dog, Freya.
