Chapter Summary

Bildad's theory of Job's affliction.

Discussion Questions for Job, Chapter 8

1. In chapter 8, Bildad begins to speak to Job. How does he address his friend? (v.2) Does his words bring comfort or pain to Job? Explain your response.
2. Bildad presents his main argument in verse 3 through two rhetorical questions. What does he say? Is he correct in what he says? Why or why not?
3. Verse 4 is an application of Bildad's argument from verse 3. Based on what we know from previous chapters of Job, is what he said true of Job's children? Explain your answer. (For a brief review, see Job 1:4-5, 18-19.)
4. Bildad gives an "if...then" type of argument in verses 5-7. What are his conditions and what results does he give? Do you think that what he is saying is right? Why or why not?
5. In verses 8-10, Bildad makes reference to "the fathers" who were "of bygone ages" (ESV). What is the point he is making in these verses?
6. Bildad uses a style of explanation in verses 11-12 based on nature. What images does he use? How does he summarize his point in verse 13? How might you respond to Bildad if you were in Job's position?
7. Read verses 5-6, 13, and 20. In these verses, Bildad presents two types of people. What are the two types of people that Bildad describes in these verses? Do you agree with his groupings? Why or why not?
8. Bildad bases his remarks to Job on the justice of God. Where do we see this most clearly in this chapter?
9. Read verse 20. Do you agree with what Bildad says here? Explain your response.
10. Verses 21-22 are the results that Bildad gives of someone who turns away from evil and seeks after God. Bildad seems to say that the righteous will always be blessed and the wicked will always be punished. Is this always the case? Can you give an example to defend your position? Explain your response.

Key Words/Phrase

Hypocrisy, v. 13.

Characters

God, Bildad, Job.

Strong Verse(s)

13,20,22.