Job and The Great Controversy

 

"When Heaven and Hell Collide"

Scripture Reading: Job 1:1–12; Job 2:1–7

Introduction

Life often feels like a battleground. We face trials that seem undeserved, hardships that make no sense, and suffering that appears unjust. In the book of Job, we witness a cosmic conflict between good and evil, played out in the life of one man. This is the great controversy—a war between God and Satan over the loyalty and faithfulness of God’s people.

I. The Reality of the Conflict (Job 1:6–12)

The story of Job lifts the curtain on a hidden war. In heaven, Satan appears before God, questioning the sincerity of Job’s faith. He suggests that Job serves God only because of blessings and protection.

• Satan’s Accusation: He challenges God’s justice and implies that people love God only for His gifts.
• God’s Confidence in Job: God does not cause Job’s suffering, but He allows it, knowing Job’s faith is genuine.
• The Principle Revealed: The great controversy is not just about power; it is about character—both God's character and ours.

II. Suffering as a Battlefield (Job 2:1–7)

Satan’s first attack fails, so he intensifies his assault. Job loses his health, covered in painful sores. His suffering deepens, yet his integrity remains intact.

• Satan’s Strategy: He uses suffering to break faith and trust in God.
• Job’s Response: He does not curse God but endures, showing that faith is more than just blessings—it’s a relationship.
• The Principle Revealed: The great controversy plays out in our trials. Will we trust God even when we don’t understand?

III. The Vindication of Faith

The great controversy is not just Job’s story—it’s ours. Every believer faces trials where faith is tested. Job’s endurance foreshadows Christ, who suffered unjustly yet remained faithful.

• Jesus, the True Job: On the cross, Christ endured the ultimate attack from Satan but never lost trust in the Father.
• Our Call: Will we, like Job, hold on to God even in suffering?

 Trusting God in the Fire

Job’s story teaches us that suffering does not mean abandonment. In the great controversy, God is not absent—He is watching, refining, and ultimately, victorious. When trials come, let us stand firm, knowing that beyond the suffering, there is a greater glory awaiting.

More: Lesson 10 Rules of Engagement