Job 11-14

Zophar presents his argument to Job, but fails to convert him to his way of thinking. Zophar has a high view of God, but is still wed to the idea that tragedy is the result of disobedience, so severe tragedy is the result of severe disobedience. He calls for Job to repent and devote his heart to God.

Job replies that his friend is simply repeating the obvious regarding God's might, but that he is not guilty of severe disobedince. In 13:5, "If only you would be altogether silent! For you, that would be wisdom." -- the "Your mother wears Army boots" quote of the Bible!

Job's faith in God is secure. "Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him. I will surely defend my ways to his face." And interestingly in 13:16, Job remarks that asking for an audience with God should prove His innocence because the guilty wouldn't dare ask for a judgment from God.

A note of divine forgiveness in 14:14-17. Our offenses are not kept forever because God covers over our sin. To the Old Testament Jew, this was through blood sacrifice. To us today it is through the blood sacrifice of Christ Jesus.