Book Description

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1891 edition. Excerpt: ... PREFACE. JT may be worth considering whether current methods of dealing with the Bible do not favor a fragmentary, rather than a comprehensive, knowledge of the sacred volume. The attention given to detached and scattered portions of Scripture should be corrected or supplemented by the careful study of entire books, by him who aspires, as every Christian should, to a thorough acquaintance with the word of God. It is in the hope of encouraging and aiding such a study of the book of Job that this volume has been prepared. It is not a continuous commentary, occupying itself with the exposition in detail of each successive paragraph or sentence. Nor is it concerned with the vexed questions of its age or authorship. Its aim is simply to set forth its general drift, to exhibit its plan and structure, and trace the course of thought from first to last by showing the part taken by each of the, actors, the purport of their several speeches, and the bearing of each portion of the book upon the common theme of the whole. Such a comprehensive survey as is here proposed will be an excellent preparation for more detailed study subsequently. And the coherence of parts thus exhibited furnishes the best demonstration of the unity of this remarkable book against those who have ventured to apply to it the critical knife. The author hopes that this humble effort may be of some service in promoting a better understanding and a higher appreciation of the book of Job, among both ministers and laymen. And he will be particularly happy if any afflicted child of God can be assisted in drawing the waters of consolation from this inspired and copious source. Pmncbton, N. J., Oct. ii, 1873. JOB'S HAPPY ESTATE. *"J"*HE book of Job is one of the most remarkab