I N D E X
5
The Book of JOB
and the Enigma of the Ages
Charles H. Welch
In this book, C.H. Welch sheds much light on the great unfolding purpose of the ages. We are here
brought face to face, not only with the problem of suffering, but with the problem of evil and its relation
to the creation of man. He who would stand fast amid the pressure of events must learn the lessons taught
in this great book of Job.
At the outset we are brought to the very heart of things. The author draws back the curtain and shows
how this ancient record came into the hands of one `learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians'. Here,
Moses would read for the first time truths that form part of the book of Genesis; Adam's sin, the Sons of
God, the majesty of the Creator and the vastness of His handiwork. Not only so, but here he would read
of a Redeemer who lived, of a Ransom provided, and of a hope that through Him man may be raised from
sleep in the dust of the earth. The conclusion is inescapable that such a book would not only influence
but impart power and wisdom to the man chosen to be the deliverer and lawgiver of Israel.
To many the book of Job is a record of unrelieved gloom, with Job longing to be where `the wicked
cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest'.  This however is only part of the truth revealed.
Suffering is answered by comfort and consolation, reproach and loss give place to honour and blessing.
The fruits of victory are given to one who by his faith endured and overcame.
The reader's conviction steadily deepens that the truth of this ancient book applies in principle to his
own day. In conclusion, we find here keys to unlock some of life's enigmas: Genesis 3 will be read with
new understanding, and the veil is drawn aside as we see the adversary of man in his corrupting, spoiling
work. Not only do we perceive the cause of Job's sufferings, but we are enabled to view the history of
Israel in a fresh light. Though God may speak in divers ways and manners, we perceive one underlying
purpose, a consistent unity and integrity throughout the inspired range of revealed truth. Here indeed is a
work that will build up the believer and give an inheritance among all that are sanctified.