(Job 20 | Chapter XV of Jessie Penn-Lewis’s *The Story of Job*)
“The triumphing of the wicked is short…” —Job 20:5 (KJV)
Zophar has heard Job’s stunning words—words of faith, of hope, of resurrection.
But he’s unmoved.
Instead of softening, Zophar hardens.
He delivers his final word like a gavel drop: You are wicked. You are finished.
“The triumphing of the wicked is short…” (v.5)
No Room for Redemption
Zophar’s view is binary: the wicked always suffer, the righteous always prosper. There is no nuance, no mystery, no mercy.
– The wicked’s joy is momentary.
– His children are cursed.
– His bones are full of sin.
– He dies, and no one remembers.
Though he never names Job, every line drips with accusation.
Penn-Lewis explains:
“Zophar declares final judgment on Job—without seeing the process of God that is unfolding behind the veil.”
Religious Certainty Without Revelation
Zophar speaks confidently—but not spiritually.
He has doctrine—but no discernment.
He has tradition—but no truth for this moment.
“He shall fly away as a dream, and shall not be found…” (v.8)
Zophar thinks he understands God—but what he actually understands is only his system.
Jessie Penn-Lewis warns:
“It is the unbroken man who speaks most confidently about others’ sins.”
Job’s Faith Meant Nothing to Him
Zophar ignores Job’s cry:
– “I know my Redeemer liveth…”
– “In my flesh I shall see God…”
These words, which echo through eternity, meant nothing to Zophar.
Because they didn’t fit his theology of judgment.
The Danger of Misused Truth
Zophar’s words are not false in isolation.
Yes, the wicked often fall.
Yes, judgment is real.
But he uses these truths to batter a man God is actually refining—not rejecting.
This is what happens when truth is wielded without the Spirit.
Overcomer’s Checkpoint
1. Do I sometimes speak truth but miss the Spirit?
2. Have I ever dismissed someone’s faith because it didn’t fit my expectations?
3. How can I ensure I speak from revelation—not just reason?
“Zophar had answers—but no revelation. And so he became an accuser instead of a friend.” —Jessie Penn-Lewis