Job’s Final Appeal: A Coptic Orthodox Perspective on Integrity and Righteousness

Executive Summary ✨

Job 31 presents the pinnacle of Job’s defense, a powerful and poignant declaration of his innocence before God and his accusers. This chapter is not merely a legalistic pleading, but a profound exploration of the inner life, meticulously examining Job’s thoughts, intentions, and actions in relation to his fellow human beings and to God. From his commitment to purity of heart and mind, to his dealings with his servants and the poor, Job paints a vivid picture of a life lived in accordance with divine principles. This commentary, rooted in Coptic Orthodox tradition, delves into the spiritual depths of Job’s words, drawing connections to other biblical texts, Patristic insights, and practical applications for modern believers seeking to emulate his unwavering dedication to righteousness. Job’s Final Appeal serves as a timeless testament to the power of integrity in the face of unimaginable suffering, reminding us that true vindication comes from God alone.

Job’s story resonates deeply with our human experience – a journey of faith tested by profound adversity. Job 31, in particular, stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to righteousness, providing a blueprint for godly living. Let’s delve into each verse, unlocking the spiritual treasures hidden within Job’s final, impassioned plea.

Commentary: Job 31 – A Verse-by-Verse Exploration

Job 31:1 (KJV) “I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?”

Job 31:1 (NKJV) “I have made a covenant with my eyes; Why then should I look at a young woman?”

Job begins his defense with a bold declaration of self-control, emphasizing the importance of guarding one’s eyes and thoughts. He has made a “covenant” – a solemn agreement – with his eyes, indicating a deliberate and conscious effort to avoid lustful thoughts. This isn’t merely about abstaining from physical acts of immorality, but about controlling the inner desires that can lead to sin.

Spiritual Application: In our modern world saturated with visual temptations, Job’s commitment serves as a powerful reminder. We must actively cultivate a disciplined mind, turning away from anything that could lead us astray. This is not just about avoiding explicit content, but about training our minds to focus on what is pure, noble, and pleasing to God (Philippians 4:8). Consider setting up digital wellness through a custom website builder from Dohost.

Job 31:2 (KJV) “For what portion of God is there from above? and what inheritance of the Almighty from on high?”

Job 31:2 (NKJV) “For what is the allotment of God from above, And what is the inheritance of the Almighty from on high?”

Job raises a crucial question about the consequences of sin. He asks, “What portion of God is there from above?” Meaning, what reward or blessing can one expect from God if they are living in sin? He implies that sin separates us from God’s favor and inheritance. He’s not just talking about worldly rewards, but the ultimate inheritance of eternal life with God.

Patristic Insight: St. Athanasius, in his “Against the Heathen,” speaks extensively about the corruptibility of the body and the need for spiritual purification. While not directly commenting on Job 31:2, his teachings underscore the importance of living a virtuous life to attain the incorruptible inheritance promised to believers in Christ. (Αγίου Αθανασίου, Κατά Εθνών, various sections addressing the purification of the soul).

Spiritual Application: This verse challenges us to consider the long-term consequences of our choices. Are we living in a way that draws us closer to God, or are we prioritizing fleeting pleasures that ultimately lead to spiritual emptiness? Our actions have eternal implications.

Job 31:3 (KJV) “Is not destruction to the wicked? and a strange punishment to the workers of iniquity?”

Job 31:3 (NKJV) “Is it not destruction for the wicked, And disaster for the workers of iniquity?”

Job reinforces the idea that wickedness leads to destruction. The word “destruction” here refers not only to physical death but also to spiritual ruin. The “strange punishment” emphasizes the unexpected and often devastating consequences that befall those who persist in iniquity. This verse isn’t a judgement in and of itself, but a statement of moral consequence.

Spiritual Application: This verse reminds us that sin has its own natural consequences. While God is merciful, He also holds us accountable for our actions. We must strive to live a life that is pleasing to Him, avoiding the path that leads to destruction. We need to remember that sometimes, God will allow consequences to play out on earth, to serve as a lesson for ourselves and others.

Job 31:4 (KJV) “Doth not he see my ways, and count all my steps?”

Job 31:4 (NKJV) “Does He not see my ways, And count all my steps?”

Job emphasizes God’s omnipresence and omniscience. Nothing is hidden from His gaze. He sees “my ways” and “counts all my steps,” signifying His complete awareness of Job’s actions, thoughts, and motivations. This is not meant to inspire fear but a sense of accountability and encouragement to walk in righteousness, knowing that our efforts are not in vain.

Connection to Psalms: This resonates with Psalm 139, which beautifully illustrates God’s intimate knowledge of every aspect of our being. David writes, “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me… You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.” (Psalm 139:1-3).

Spiritual Application: This verse should encourage us to live with integrity, knowing that God sees everything. It should motivate us to examine our consciences and to strive to live in a way that is pleasing to Him, not just outwardly, but also inwardly. It’s a call to authentic faith.

Job 31:5-8 (KJV) “If I have walked with vanity, or if my foot hath hasted to deceit; Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine integrity. If my step hath turned out of the way, and mine heart walked after mine eyes, and if any blot hath cleaved to mine hands; Then let me sow, and let another eat; yea, let my offspring be rooted out.”

Job 31:5-8 (NKJV) “If I have walked with falsehood, Or if my foot has hastened to deceit, Let me be weighed on honest scales, That God may know my integrity. If my step has turned from the way, Or my heart walked after my eyes, Or if any stain has stuck to my hands, Then let me sow, and another eat; And let my offspring be rooted out.”

Job boldly asserts his honesty and integrity, offering severe consequences if he is found guilty of deceit. He invites God to weigh him on “honest scales” to reveal his true character. He acknowledges the potential for temptation, stating that if his heart has “walked after mine eyes” (lust), he is willing to suffer extreme loss – his harvest being reaped by another and his offspring being destroyed. This reflects the severity with which he views sin.

Context: The imagery of “honest scales” is particularly powerful in the ancient Near East, where merchants often used dishonest weights to cheat their customers. Job is asserting that he has always conducted his affairs with fairness and integrity.

Spiritual Application: This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts and actions. Are we truly honest in our dealings with others? Are we willing to face the consequences of our choices? Job’s willingness to accept severe punishment underscores the importance of integrity in the eyes of God.

Job 31:9-12 (KJV) “If mine heart have been deceived by a woman, or if I have laid wait at my neighbour’s door; Then let my wife grind unto another, and let others bow down upon her. For this is an heinous crime; yea, it is an iniquity to be punished by the judges. For it is a fire that consumeth to destruction, and would root out all mine increase.”

Job 31:9-12 (NKJV) “If my heart has been enticed by a woman, Or if I have lurked at my neighbor’s door, Then let my wife grind for another, And let others bow down over her. For that would be wickedness; Yes, it would be iniquity deserving of judgment. For that would be a fire that consumes to destruction, And would root out all my increase.”

Job continues his plea by addressing the sin of adultery. He declares that if he has lusted after another man’s wife, he deserves the most severe consequences: his own wife being subjected to the same humiliation and his entire livelihood being destroyed. He emphasizes the gravity of adultery, calling it a “heinous crime” and a “fire that consumes to destruction.” The reference to grinding for another points to forced servitude and dishonor, painting a horrifying picture of the potential consequences.

Spiritual Significance: The condemnation of adultery here aligns with the teachings of the Old Testament (Exodus 20:14) and the New Testament (Matthew 5:28). Adultery is not just a physical act, but a violation of trust and a betrayal of the marriage covenant. It has devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities.

Spiritual Application: This passage underscores the importance of fidelity and commitment in marriage. It also serves as a reminder to guard our hearts against lust and temptation, which can lead to devastating consequences. We are called to honor the sanctity of marriage and to protect it from all forms of infidelity.

Job 31:13-15 (KJV) “If I did despise the cause of my manservant or of my maidservant, when they contended with me; What then shall I do when God riseth up? and when he visiteth, what shall I answer him? Did not he that made me in the womb make him? and did not one fashion us in the womb?”

Job 31:13-15 (NKJV) “If I have despised the cause of my male or female servant, When they complained against me, What then shall I do when God rises up? When He punishes, how shall I answer Him? Did not He who made me in the womb make them? Did not the same One fashion us in the womb?”

Job now focuses on his treatment of his servants, asserting that he has always treated them with fairness and respect. He acknowledges that they are his equals in God’s eyes. He asks a powerful rhetorical question: “What shall I do when God rises up? When He punishes, how shall I answer Him?” This highlights the ultimate accountability we all have before God, regardless of our social status. The point is that God, who created both Job and his servants, will hold him to account if he mistreated them. This verse promotes equality.

Connection to the New Testament: The apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in Colossians 4:1, urging masters to “give your bondservants what is just and fair, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.” The New Testament emphasizes the dignity and worth of every individual, regardless of their social status.

Spiritual Application: This passage challenges us to examine our attitudes and actions towards those who are less fortunate than ourselves. Do we treat them with respect and dignity? Do we advocate for their rights? We are called to emulate God’s compassion and justice in all our dealings with others.

Job 31:16-23 (KJV) “If I have withheld the poor from their desire, or have caused the eyes of the widow to fail; Or have eaten my morsel myself alone, and the fatherless hath not eaten thereof; (For from my youth he was brought up with me, as with a father, and I have guided her from my mother’s womb;) If I have seen any perish for want of clothing, or any poor without covering; If his loins have not blessed me, and if he were not warmed with the fleece of my sheep; If I have lifted up my hand against the fatherless, when I saw my help in the gate: Then let mine arm fall from my shoulder blade, and mine arm be broken from the bone.”

Job 31:16-23 (NKJV) “If I have kept the poor from their desire, Or caused the eyes of the widow to fail, Or have eaten my morsel by myself, So that the fatherless has not eaten of it— Even from my youth I brought him up as with a father, And I guided her from my mother’s womb— If I have seen anyone perish for lack of clothing, Or any poor man without covering; If his heart has not blessed me, And if he was not warmed with the fleece of my sheep; If I have raised my hand against the fatherless, Because I saw I had help in the gate, Then let my arm fall from my shoulder, And my arm be broken from the bone.”

Job describes his commitment to caring for the poor, the widows, and the fatherless. He states that he has never withheld food or clothing from those in need. He even claims to have raised the fatherless “as with a father,” demonstrating his consistent care and compassion. He invokes a curse upon himself if he has ever abused his power or taken advantage of the vulnerable. Job is claiming he has shown charity and love to the people around him. He has acted as a responsible steward.

Connection to Deuterocanonical Books: Sirach 4:1-10 emphasizes the importance of caring for the poor and fatherless. “My child, do not deprive the poor of their living, and do not keep needy eyes waiting… Do not reject a suppliant in distress, or turn your face away from the poor… Stretch out your hand to the poor, so that your blessing may be complete.” These passages reflect a consistent emphasis on social justice and compassion within the Jewish tradition.

Spiritual Application: This passage challenges us to consider our own responsibility to the poor and vulnerable. Are we actively seeking ways to alleviate their suffering? Are we sharing our resources with those in need? We are called to be channels of God’s love and compassion to the world.

Job 31:24-28 (KJV) “If I have made gold my hope, or have said to the fine gold, Thou art my confidence; If I rejoiced because my wealth was great, and because mine hand had gotten much; If I beheld the sun when it shined, or the moon walking brightly; And my heart hath been secretly enticed, or my mouth hath kissed my hand: This also were an iniquity to be punished by the judge: for I should have denied the God that is above.”

Job 31:24-28 (NKJV) “If I have made gold my hope, Or said to fine gold, ‘You are my confidence’; If I have rejoiced because my wealth was great, And because my hand had gained much; If I have observed the sun when it shines, Or the moon moving in brightness, And my heart has been secretly enticed, Or my mouth has kissed my hand; This also would be an iniquity deserving of judgment, For I would have denied God who is above.”

Job declares that he has never placed his trust in wealth or material possessions. He has not made “gold my hope” or said to “fine gold, ‘You are my confidence.'” He also addresses the sin of idolatry, stating that he has not been enticed by the beauty of the sun or moon, and has not worshipped them by kissing his hand in reverence. He recognizes that such actions would be a denial of the true God.

Spiritual Significance: This passage echoes the First Commandment, “You shall have no other gods before me” (Exodus 20:3). It also aligns with Jesus’s teaching that “you cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24). Our ultimate allegiance must be to God, not to material possessions or created things.

Spiritual Application: This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts and priorities. Are we placing our trust in God, or are we relying on our wealth, status, or abilities? Are we worshipping the Creator or the creation? We are called to cultivate a heart that is fully devoted to God.

Job 31:29-32 (KJV) “If I rejoiced at the destruction of him that hated me, or lifted up myself when evil came upon him: Neither have I suffered my mouth to sin by wishing a curse to his soul. If the men of my tabernacle said not, Oh that we had of his flesh! we cannot be satisfied. The stranger did not lodge in the street: but I opened my doors to the traveller.”

Job 31:29-32 (NKJV) “If I have rejoiced at the destruction of him who hated me, Or lifted myself up when evil happened to him (Nor did I allow my mouth to sin by asking a curse on his soul); If the men of my tent have not said, ‘Oh, that we had of his flesh! We cannot be satisfied’; The sojourner has not lodged in the street, But I have opened my doors to the traveler.”

Job asserts that he has never rejoiced in the misfortunes of his enemies, nor has he cursed them. He emphasizes his hospitality, stating that he has always welcomed strangers into his home. This shows a heart of compassion and a commitment to loving even those who have wronged him. Job is demonstrating that he has not let bitterness or resentment guide his actions.

Connection to the teachings of Jesus: This aligns with Jesus’s command to “love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). Loving our enemies is a hallmark of Christian discipleship.

Spiritual Application: This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts and attitudes towards those who have wronged us. Do we harbor resentment or bitterness? Do we rejoice when they suffer? We are called to forgive them, to pray for them, and to seek their well-being, even if they are our enemies.

Job 31:33-34 (KJV) “If I covered my transgressions as Adam, by hiding mine iniquity in my bosom: Did I fear a great multitude, or did the contempt of families terrify me, that I kept silence, and went not out of the door?”

Job 31:33-34 (NKJV) “If I have covered my transgressions as Adam, By hiding my iniquity in my bosom, Because I feared the great multitude, Or dreaded the contempt of families, So that I kept silence And did not go out of the door—”

Job denies that he has ever tried to hide his sins or to conceal his wrongdoings. He uses the example of Adam, who attempted to hide his sin from God (Genesis 3:8-10). Job states that he has not been motivated by fear of public opinion or the judgment of others. He has been transparent and honest in his dealings with God and with others.

Spiritual Significance: Confession of sin is a crucial aspect of repentance and restoration. Psalm 32:5 declares, “I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,’ and you forgave the guilt of my sin.” Hiding our sins only leads to further separation from God.

Spiritual Application: This passage challenges us to be honest with ourselves and with God about our sins. We are called to confess our transgressions, to seek forgiveness, and to turn away from our wrongdoings. Transparency and accountability are essential for spiritual growth.

Job 31:35-37 (KJV) “Oh that one would hear me! behold, my desire is, that the Almighty would answer me, and that mine adversary had written a book. Surely I would take it upon my shoulder, and bind it as a crown to me. I would declare unto him the number of my steps; as a prince would I go near unto him.”

Job 31:35-37 (NKJV) “Oh, that I had one to hear me, Here is my mark. Let the Almighty answer me, And let my accuser write a book. Surely I would carry it on my shoulder, And bind it on me as a crown; I would declare to him the number of my steps; Like a prince I would approach him.”

Job expresses his desire for a fair hearing and an answer from God. He wishes that his accuser would write down their accusations in a book so that he could respond to them point by point. He is confident that he can defend himself against any charge. He is ready to wear his accuser’s words like a crown, demonstrating his willingness to face any challenge and his unwavering belief in his own integrity.

Spiritual significance: Job is asking for a chance to speak for himself. He is showing his faith in God to vindicate him. He believes that he can stand tall even with his accuser’s accusations written down for all to see.

Spiritual application: Job is demonstrating great faith in this verse. He’s not afraid to be transparent. He’s not afraid to stand before God. We need to cultivate this same confidence in the Lord. Trust that He will vindicate you.

Job 31:38-40 (KJV) “If my land cry against me, or that the furrows likewise thereof complain; If I have eaten the fruits thereof without money, or have caused the owners thereof to lose their life: Let thistles grow instead of wheat, and cockle instead of barley. The words of Job are ended.”

Job 31:38-40 (NKJV) “If my land cries out against me, And its furrows weep together; If I have eaten its fruit without payment, Or caused its owners to lose their lives, Then let thistles grow instead of wheat, And weeds instead of barley.” The words of Job are ended.

Job concludes his defense by invoking a curse upon himself if he has mistreated the land or exploited its workers. He states that if he has unjustly profited from the land or caused the owners to suffer, he deserves to have the land produce thistles and weeds instead of crops. This final declaration underscores his commitment to justice and fairness in all his dealings, including his stewardship of the earth.

Spiritual Significance: This passage highlights the interconnectedness of humanity and creation. Our actions have consequences not only for ourselves and others but also for the environment. We are called to be responsible stewards of the earth, caring for its resources and ensuring its sustainability for future generations.

Spiritual Application: This passage challenges us to examine our own environmental practices. Are we treating the earth with respect? Are we consuming its resources responsibly? We are called to be good stewards of God’s creation, protecting it from pollution, overexploitation, and destruction.

The Significance of Job’s Oath of Clearance

Job’s closing argument is not simply a list of virtues he has upheld. It is a solemn oath of clearance. His life is on display, open for examination. Job’s Final Appeal hinges on the idea that actions speak louder than words. He is willing to submit himself to divine scrutiny, confident that his integrity will be vindicated.

• Integrity as a Foundation: Job demonstrates that true righteousness stems from a heart committed to integrity.
• Social Justice: His concern for the poor, the fatherless, and the widow underscores the importance of social justice.
• Stewardship: Job showcases his commitment to responsible stewardship of the earth and its resources.
• Honesty: He champions honesty in all dealings, refusing to hide his sins or exploit others.
• Faith: Job’s faith in God’s ultimate justice is unshakable, even in the face of unimaginable suffering.
• Forgiveness: He advocates for forgiveness, even towards enemies.

FAQ ❓

Q: Why is Job so confident in his own innocence?

A: Job’s confidence stems from his sincere effort to live a life of righteousness according to the principles he understood. He wasn’t claiming perfection, but rather a consistent pattern of integrity, social justice, and devotion to God. He believes his conscience is clear, and he trusts that God will ultimately vindicate him.

Q: What is the significance of Job’s curses upon himself if he is found guilty?

A: Job’s curses highlight the seriousness with which he views sin. They are not simply empty words, but rather a demonstration of his willingness to accept the consequences of his actions if he is found to be in the wrong. This underscores the importance of integrity and accountability in the eyes of God.

Q: How does Job’s final appeal relate to the teachings of the New Testament?

A: While Job lived before the time of Christ, his teachings align with many of the principles found in the New Testament. His emphasis on love, compassion, justice, and honesty resonates with the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Job’s example provides a framework for godly living that is relevant to believers in all ages.

Q: What can we learn from Job’s final appeal for our own lives today?

A: Job’s final appeal challenges us to examine our own hearts and actions. Are we living with integrity? Are we caring for the poor and vulnerable? Are we being honest in our dealings with others? Are we placing our trust in God, or in material possessions? Job’s example inspires us to strive for a life of righteousness and devotion to God.

Conclusion ✨

Job’s Final Appeal in chapter 31 is a powerful and moving defense of his integrity. It is not merely a legalistic argument, but a heartfelt expression of his commitment to righteousness. He demonstrates that true faith is not just about outward observance but about a deep inner transformation that affects every aspect of our lives. As Coptic Orthodox Christians, we are called to emulate Job’s example, striving for integrity, compassion, and unwavering devotion to God. His story reminds us that even in the midst of suffering, we can maintain our faith and trust in God’s ultimate justice. His final defense is an invitation to reflect on our own lives and to ask ourselves if we are living in a way that is pleasing to God.

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righteousness, integrity, Job, Coptic Orthodox, suffering, justice, honesty, compassion, stewardship, faith

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Explore Job’s final appeal in Job 31 through a Coptic Orthodox lens. Discover insights on righteousness, integrity, and unwavering faith in the face of suffering.