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Commentary on Job 32 verses 15–22
Three things here apologize for Elihu's interposing as he does in this controversy which had already been canvassed by such acute and learned disputants: -
1.That the stage was clear, and he did not break in upon any of the managers on either side: They were amazed (Job 32:15); they stood still, and answered no more, Job 32:16. They not only left off speaking themselves, but they stood still, to hear if any of the company would speak their minds, so that (as we say) he had room and fair play given him. They seemed not fully satisfied themselves with what they had said, else they would have adjourned the court, and not have stood still, expecting what might further be offered. And therefore I said (Job 32:17), "I will answer also my part. I cannot pretend to give a definitive sentence; no, the judgment is the Lord's, and by him it must be determined who is in the right and who is in the wrong; but, since you have each of you shown your opinion, I also will show mine, and let it take its fate with the rest." When what is offered, even by the meanest, is offered thus modestly, it is a pity but it should be fairly heard and considered. I see no inconvenience in supposing that Elihu here discovers himself to be the penman of this book, and that he here writes as an historian, relating the matter of fact, that, after he had bespoken their attention in the foregoing verses, they were amazed, they left off whispering among themselves, did not gainsay the liberty of speech he desired, but stood still to hear what he would say, being much surprised at the admirable mixture of boldness and modesty that appeared in his preface.
2.That he was uneasy, and even in pain, to be delivered of his thoughts upon this matter. They must give him leave to speak, for he cannot forbear; while he is musing the fire burns (Psa 39:3), shut up in his bones, as the prophet speaks, Jer 20:9. Never did nurse, when her breasts were gorged, so long to have them drawn as Elihu did to deliver his mind concerning Job's case, Job 32:18-20. If any of the disputants had hit that which he thought was the right joint, he would contentedly have been silent; but, when he thought they all missed it, he was eager to be trying his hand at it. He pleads, (1.) That he had a great deal to say: "I am full of matter, having carefully attended to all that has hitherto been said, and made my own reflections upon it." When aged men are drawn dry, and have spent their stock, in discoursing of the divine Providence, God can raise up others, even young men, and fill them with matter for the edifying of his church; for it is a subject that can never be exhausted, though those that speak upon it may. (2.) That he was under a necessity of saying it: "The spirit within me not only instructs me what to say, but puts me on to say it; so that if I have not vent (such a ferment are my thoughts in) I shall burst like bottles of new wine when it is working," Job 32:19. See what a great grief it is to a good minister to be silenced and thrust into a corner; he is full of matter, full of Christ, full of heaven, and would speak of these things for the good of others, but he may not. (3.) That it would be an ease and satisfaction to himself to deliver his mind (Job 32:20): I will speak, that I may be refreshed, not only that I may be eased of the pain of stifling my thoughts, but that I may have the pleasure of endeavouring, according to my place and capacity, to do good. It is a great refreshment to a good man to have liberty to speak for the glory of God and the edification of others.
3.That he was resolved to speak, with all possible freedom and sincerity, what he thought was true, not what he thought would please (Job 32:21, Job 32:22): "Let me not accept any man's person, as partial judges do, that aim to enrich themselves, not to do justice. I am resolved to flatter no man." He would not speak otherwise than he thought, either, (1.) In compassion to Job, because he was poor and in affliction, would not make his case better than he really took it to be, for fear of increasing his grief; "but, let him bear it as he can, he shall be told the truth." Those that are in affliction must not be flattered, but dealt faithfully with. When trouble is upon any it is foolish pity to suffer sin upon them too (Lev 19:17), for that is the worst addition that can be to their trouble. Thou shalt not countenance, any more than discountenance, a poor man in his cause (Exo 23:3), nor regard a sad look any more than a big look, so as, for the sake of it, to pervert justice, for that is accepting persons. Or, (2.) In compliment to Job's friends, because they were in prosperity and reputation. Let them not expect that he should say as they said, any further than he was convinced that they say right, nor applaud their dictates for the sake of their dignities. No, though Elihu is a young man, and upon his preferment, he will not dissemble truth to court the favour of great men. It is a good resolution he has taken up - "I know not to give flattering titles to men; I never used myself to flattering language;" and it is a good reason he gives for that resolution - in so doing my Maker would soon take my away. It is good to keep ourselves in awe with a holy fear of God's judgments. He that made us will take us away in his wrath is we do not conduct ourselves as we should. He hates all dissimulation and flattery, and will soon put lying lips to silence and cut off flattering lips, Psa 12:3. The more closely we eye the majesty of God as our Maker, and the more we dread his wrath and justice, the less danger shall we be in of a sinful fearing or flattering of men.
“I must speak so that I may find relief,” like a woman in labor, who, after bringing forth her offspring, is relieved from the pain of giving birth. And again, “my belly is in pain and does not open,” that is, I was in pain and could not find any respite, because I strongly desired to speak, but I abstained from it. Now I will break my voice and will make a revelation.
22. Most judiciously he does not make God equal to man, since he knows not how long he may continue, or when in the judgment of God be taken away. And he well says, After a while my Maker may take me away; for however long is the period of the present life, it is short, from the very fact, that it is not enduring. For that which is confined within circumscribed limits has no claim to be considered lasting. But in the midst of these sentences which he utters, based on solid truth, he again bursts out into words of pride.
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SUMMARY
Job 32:21 marks the decisive entrance of Elihu, the youngest of Job's companions, into the profound theological debate. After patiently observing the prolonged and ultimately unproductive arguments between Job and his three friends, Elihu feels compelled by divine inspiration to speak. This pivotal verse serves as his foundational declaration of intent, asserting his unwavering commitment to impartiality and integrity in his upcoming discourse, vowing to speak unvarnished truth unswayed by human status, suffering, or the desire to flatter.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Elihu's opening statement in Job 32:21 is a powerful Declaration of his rhetorical and ethical stance. It functions as a Proleptic statement, anticipating and preempting any accusations of bias or insincerity that might arise from his youth or his decision to speak after his elders. The verse employs a form of Antithetical Parallelism, where the two clauses, though distinct, reinforce a single overarching concept of integrity in communication. "Accepting any man's person" speaks to avoiding negative bias or favoritism, while "giving flattering titles" speaks to avoiding positive manipulation or insincere praise. Together, they form a comprehensive commitment to unadulterated truth-telling. Furthermore, Elihu is immediately establishing his Ethos, or credibility, by presenting himself as a speaker driven by divine inspiration and a pure motive, thereby inviting his audience to listen to his words with trust.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Elihu's resolute declaration in Job 32:21 resonates deeply with the biblical emphasis on God's own perfect impartiality and the call for His people to reflect this attribute in their judgments and interactions. Just as God "shows no partiality and accepts no bribes," so too are His servants called to administer justice and speak truth without bias. This principle is foundational to righteous living and is repeatedly enjoined throughout Scripture, highlighting that true wisdom and justice are rooted in an unwavering commitment to truth, unswayed by human status or the desire for approval. Elihu's stance anticipates the divine standard of judgment that will later be fully revealed.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Elihu's bold declaration in Job 32:21 offers a profound challenge for believers today, calling us to cultivate integrity in our communication and judgment in a world often swayed by appearances, status, and the pursuit of popularity. In our personal relationships, professional dealings, and engagement with broader societal issues, we are constantly tempted to show favoritism, to speak what is expedient rather than what is true, or to use flattery to gain an advantage. This verse reminds us that true wisdom and righteousness demand an unbiased approach, treating all individuals with dignity and fairness, regardless of their background, wealth, or influence. It compels us to examine our motives for speaking, asking whether our words are driven by a genuine desire for truth and the well-being of others, or by a need for approval, a fear of conflict, or a desire for personal gain. Embracing Elihu's commitment means speaking with courage and sincerity, even when the truth is uncomfortable or unpopular, trusting that God honors integrity above all else.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why is Elihu's declaration of impartiality so important at this point in the book of Job?
Answer: Elihu's declaration is crucial because it signals a fundamental shift in the nature of the debate. The preceding arguments between Job and his three friends had become circular and unproductive, marked by rigid theological positions and personal accusations. Job felt misunderstood and wrongly condemned, while his friends were unable to move beyond their traditional retribution theology. Elihu's vow not to "accept any man's person" or "give flattering titles" promises a fresh, unbiased, and divinely-inspired perspective. He positions himself as someone who will speak God's truth, unswayed by Job's suffering or the friends' age and status, thereby offering the potential for genuine insight where human wisdom had failed (as he states in Job 32:8-9).
Does the Bible condemn all forms of praise or compliments?
Answer: No, the Bible does not condemn all forms of praise or compliments. What Elihu condemns is flattery – insincere, manipulative, or excessive praise given for selfish motives, to curry favor, or to avoid speaking difficult truths. Genuine praise, encouragement, and honor given out of love, truth, and respect are affirmed throughout Scripture. For example, Proverbs 27:2 speaks of the value of honest praise, and believers are encouraged to "outdo one another in showing honor" (Romans 12:10). The distinction lies in the motive and sincerity: flattery compromises integrity, while genuine affirmation builds up and reflects truth.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Elihu's aspiration to speak without partiality or flattery finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. Our Lord consistently demonstrated absolute impartiality, showing no favoritism based on social status, wealth, or reputation. He spoke truth to power, challenging the religious elites without fear or flattery, and ministered to the marginalized and outcast with equal love and directness. The Pharisees themselves, attempting to trap Him, acknowledged His unwavering commitment to truth, stating, "Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone's opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances" (Matthew 22:16). Jesus did not seek human praise or approval (John 5:41), but spoke only what He heard from the Father, making His judgments perfectly righteous (John 5:30). As the very embodiment of Truth (John 14:6), Christ perfectly fulfilled Elihu's ideal, setting the supreme example for believers to emulate in their speech and conduct, reflecting the character of God who truly "shows no partiality" (Romans 2:11).