Job 31 - Introduction

Job solemnly clears himself of all offences

The chapter consists of a series of protestations on the one hand, accompanied on the other by curses on himself if these protestations of innocence are not true. Occasionally appeals are made to God to judge him; and in some instances the considerations are stated which weighed with him and restrained him from the sins of which he protests his innocence. In Job's present condition, when he now speaks, some of these imprecations appear unsuitable. But we must consider that as he is reviewing his past life, his mind throws him back into the circumstances in which he was then living, and this brings before him the considerations and feelings which then weighed with him.

The chapter falls into three sections,

First, Job 31:1, Job clears himself of all those secret sensual desires of the heart which seduce men into shameful conduct.

Second, Job 31:13, he repudiates all abuse of his power in reference to those inferior in rank, and all selfish indifference to the sufferings and wants of the unfortunate.

Third, Job 31:24, he clears himself of every secret feeling that would be accounted dishonourable, whether in regard to men or God.