PYH for July 20

PREPARING FOR THE SERMON

July 20, 2025

Job 1:1-5

Context:

            The life of Job relates to the culture found in the book of Genesis. Wealth was measured in animals. There was no formal priesthood (Job made sacrifices himself). The lifespan of Job included seeing four generations even after his original children died. No dates are given in Job for when the events took place or when the book was written.

            The first five verses of Job set the context of the book by describing Job the man. They introduce Job as pious and blessed. One of the major themes to consider in the book of Job entails the relationship between piety and blessing. A drama emerges soon after that will test whether piety continues when blessing apparently ceases.

Structure:

1:1 a description of Job

1:2-3 Job’s family and possessions

1:4-5 how his kids lived and Job’s interaction with them

Key Ideas: blessing, righteousness, penitence, greatness

Some things to think about:

• What does it mean to fear God? Do you/how do you fear God?
• Why do you try to live a pious life?
• Think about how often you unwittingly sin only to realize it later.
• How effective can your intercession be for someone else?