Evaluation
Overall Score: 8.0/10
A strong bridge from Job’s world to ours, offering wise help for preaching in suffering.
Summary
At a Glance
- Length
- 480 pages
- Type
- Application
- Theo. Perspective
- Broadly Evangelical
- Overall score
- 8 / 10
- Strength
- Strong help for pastoral application without flattening Job’s argument.
- Limitation
- Some sections assume background work that busy weeks may not allow.
We find Walton brings an unusual strength to Job, he helps us hear the book within the world of the ancient Near East while still letting Job speak with its own moral and theological force.
The series format serves us well here. Walton keeps the arguments clear, then helps us translate Job’s wisdom into pastoral categories without rushing to tidy answers.
Why Should I Own This Commentary?
We should own this volume when we want to teach Job without turning it into a slogan. Walton slows us down, shows the logic of the dialogues, and helps us see why the friends are wrong even when they sound orthodox.
We also benefit from the way he keeps suffering, lament, and reverent restraint together. That balance can protect our people from harsh counsel and protect us from shallow comfort.
Walton is not writing as a Reformed systematician, but the work is pastorally safe and often very helpful. Used alongside a more explicitly confessional voice, it can strengthen our handling of hard questions.
Closing Recommendation
We recommend this for pastors and teachers who want a solid bridge from Job’s ancient setting to present day pastoral care. It rewards careful reading and pays off in the pulpit.
As pastoral next steps, we can read the Bible Book Overview, browse Top Recommendations, and use the Reformed Commentary Index as we build a wiser shelf.
Classification
- Level: Mid-level
- Best For: Busy pastors, Lay readers / small groups, Pastors-in-training
- Priority: Strong recommendation
Build your shelf for this Bible book
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Top Concordance
Commentary
- Job, ESV Expository Commentary 8.5
- Job 8.3
- Job 8.3
Study Bible
Bible Atlas
- ESV Bible Atlas 8.7