Job 24:22Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Every evil preacher 'stands' in this life as long as he exists in a temporal body. However, he fails to 'believe his life' due to his pride, refusing to acknowledge the divine truth. If he possessed the correct understanding of the nature of his Creator, he would indeed 'believe his life.' The observations made previously pertain to every wicked individual, yet we are now specifically addressing the errant preacher. It is essential to remember that while we analyze a particular case, we must not overlook the broader context. Every individual engaged in wrongdoing, even if they appear to remain in faith within the Universal Church, 'stands, and will not believe his life,' as he may grasp the truths of faith regarding his Creator, yet shows no commitment to the deeds of that faith. He stands guilty of disbelief, for although what he professes might contain truth, his lifestyle renders him condemned. This is why John declared, “Whoever says that he knows God and does not keep his commandments is a liar” (1 John 2:4). Likewise, Paul remarked, “They say they know God, but by their actions they deny Him” (Titus 1:16). Therefore, James proclaimed, “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:20; James 2:26). Nonetheless, amidst all this, the Creator, in His secret purpose, observes the transgressors and grants them time to live, so that at some interval in their earthly existence, they might turn toward repentance to enhance their reward, or remain unrepentant to amplify their condemnation.

Thus, when he rises, he finds no assurance in his life. The wicked rises each day uncertain of his survival, consumed by fear and trembling. As wise Solomon explains, fear is simply the absence of aid from reason. However, when he becomes ill, he should not expect recovery, but rather, he shall succumb to his suffering. Physical illness arises as a consequence of sin. The phrase "let him not hope" indicates that, tortured by his own conscience, he has relinquished all hope. To fall by affliction means he will endure great suffering. Many have been crushed by his arrogance. Hence, he shall fall, for by lifting himself up, he has brought ruin upon many. He will wither like grain scorched by the sun or like an ear that falls away from the stalk. Other texts suggest "like grass." The great psalmist also expresses this thought: For they, like grass, shall soon fade away, and like the flourishing herb, shall swiftly perish. Job, too, eloquently states that it is by his own failings that he meets his downfall, for each person's sin becomes their own punishment.

Some, perhaps to emphasize the depravity of their actions, conceal them in the cover of darkness (13-17). A heavy curse and misfortune should rightly fall upon all of them, just as it does upon the oppressors (18-24). Yet, does this truly occur? Therefore, Job firmly believes, contrary to his friends' perspectives, that his statements regarding the incongruity of prosperity with righteousness are just (25).