The Story Begins: Suffering and Joy in Christ

The Story Begins: Suffering and Joy in Christ

Job 1

2-9-20

Main Idea: God is always present and orchestrating our suffering for His glory and our good.

I. God is in Control. Job 1:6-12

Views on Evil and Suffering:

1. God is not all loving.

2. God is not all powerful.

3. God does not exist.

4. Suffering is an illusion.

5. Suffering glorifies Him and brings good.

II. God is to be Feared. Job 1:8

“Fear God” – Worshipping God for His great worth and having a holy fear of hurting His name.

Exodus 20:20 – “Moses said…’Do not be afraid; for God has come to test you…that the fear of Him may remain with you, so that you may not sin.’”

Psalm 31:19 – “How great is Your goodness…for those who fear You…who take refuge in You…”

Psalm 112:1 – “…How blessed is the man who fears the LORD, Who greatly delights in His commandments.”

Proverbs 9:10 – “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom…”

Proverbs 14:26 – “In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence…his children have refuge.”

Isaiah 33:6 – “The fear of the LORD is his treasure.”

III.  Satan is Always at Work. Job 1:7, 11

1 Peter 5:8 – “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.”

1. Sober Minded- 3525 nḗphō– to be sober, free from illusion and intoxicating influences of sin. Having a clear presence of mind for God honoring choices.

2. Watchful-1127 grēgoreúō– to stay awake, be attentive and alert, responsible and watchful.

3. Adversary- 476 antídikos– a prosecuting attorney, an opponent, accuser that brings charges to bring punishment.  

4. Devil- 1228 diábolos - to slander, accuse, defame–unjustly criticizing to hurt ,condemn and bring down.

5. Prowls- 4043 peripatéō- walk around in a complete circle, waiting, watching and stalking prey.

6. Roaring- 5612 Oruomai – howl as a wild beast, boisterous sound.

7. Devour- 2666 katapino – destroy, swallow up, drink something down, consume, drown, overwhelm.

IV. Joy in God is Secure in Suffering. Job 1:13-22

Fighting for Joy:

1. Be honest.

Job 9:16 – “Job said, ‘If I summoned Him and He answered me, I would not believe that he was listening to my voice.’”

2. Choose Christlike friends.

3. Draw near to God.

Job 42:5-6 – “Job said, ‘I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you… I repent in dust and ashes.’”

Philippians 3:10-11 – “That I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death.”

Discussion Questions for the Week

1. What is your typical response to suffering in your life?

2. Explain the Gospel and how it addresses our suffering?

3. How do you tend to respond to disappointment?

4. What would you tell someone that is suffering to the point of leading him/her to doubt God’s presence and goodness?

5. What are some ways we can encourage and care for one another in times of suffering? (Proverbs 18:21, 20:5, 1 Peter 5:7, 1 John 3:18)

6. Whom do you know is in a season of adversity or suffering, and how will you assure him or her of God’s care this week?

7. How has God used suffering in your life to draw you closer to Jesus? Helped you minister to others?

8. How would you rate your willingness to suffer for the Gospel of Jesus? Pray for one another using Luke 9:22-24 and Luke 12:19-21.