Job 20:28Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The entry from his household will be unveiled, and he will be removed on the day of God’s anger, as noted in Job 20:28. The unveiling occurs when every wicked thought he harbors becomes glaringly apparent. In contrast, the actions of the hypocrite may seem commendable on the surface, yet his true intentions remain obscured. There is a distinction between his outward actions and the inner motivations that accompany them. However, when the Judge arrives, each person's conscience will openly bear witness against him, as it is written, "Their thoughts, then accusing, then justifying one another" (Romans 2:15). The facades of the hypocrite will be laid bare, revealing the malicious intent within his heart.

The day of the Lord's wrath will arrive for him. On that day, divine judgement will befall him. This is the portion designated for the ungodly by the Lord, and the seizing of their holdings by the Ruler. Since the unrighteous did not experience the blessings of God during their time of wealth, they now receive the full measure of God's anger, who oversees all creation, as their inheritance. Bishops, recognizing that God is referred to by such a title in Scripture, must safeguard the sanctity of that name, diligently tending to the flock and uplifting themselves through faith, authority, and unwavering doctrine.

Job's words have provoked Sophar to the point where he can no longer hold his tongue. As it was before, Sophar reaffirms that wickedness inevitably leads to destruction, and though the sinner may experience temporary happiness, it fades away like a fleeting dream. What seems pleasing to the unrighteous, such as wealth, will ultimately become a source of bitterness for them. Moreover, for the injustices and exploitation inflicted on the needy, calamity will be their portion. This fate is both unavoidable and dreadful.