The Danger Of Simplistic Theology – Part 27

Job responds to Zophar's ill-informed and simplistic argument. Job unveils the danger of his friend's faith
and cautions his hearers/readers that: I. Simplistic theology attempts to silence sincere lament (1 – 6).
Job opens with an open plea to be heard/listened to. Job argues that this mindset: – treats lament as
inconvenience than a genuine cry for help (2), - it pressures the sufferer into subserviency due to mockery
(3), - it interprets lament as rebellion, instead of an act of worship (4), it refuses to show empathy to the
sufferer (5) and simplistic faith – minimizes the depth of suffering (6). II. Simplistic theology cannot
explain the reality of God's Sovereignty (7–16). Contrary from Zophar's shortsighted diagnosis (Job 20),
of god's Sovereignty, Job argues that the wicked in fact are under the Sovereign control of God almighty.
Because – God causes: the wicked – to proper (7), families thrive (8) know home safety (9 – 10), their
lives know some element of joy (11–12), they die in peace (13). Though they reject God, yet they prosper
(14 – 15). Therefore, Job gives his theological conclusion in verse 16, that – "...their prosperity, in not in
their hands..." By inference, God owns and possesses what the wicked would otherwise claim that they
own proprietary rights. Therefore, God is sovereign, who exercises common grace over His creation, for
his glory.