Job 13:3, 18-22 | JFB | STEP | 3. Job wishes to plead his cause before God ( ), as he is more and more convinced of the valueless character of his would-be "physicians" ( ).

Job 13:3

3. Job wishes to plead his cause before God (Job 9:34, 35), as he is more and more convinced of the valueless character of his would-be "physicians" (Job 16:2).

Job 13:18-22

18. ordered—implying a constant preparation for defense in his confidence of innocence.

19. if, &c.—Rather, "Then would I hold my tongue and give up the ghost"; that is, if any one can contend with me and prove me false, I have no more to say. "I will be silent and die." Like our "I would stake my life on it" [UMBREIT].

20. Address to God.

not hide—stand forth boldly to maintain my cause.

21. (See on Job 9:34 and see Ps 39:10).

22. call—a challenge to the defendant to answer to the charges.

answer—the defense begun.

speak—as plaintiff.

answer—to the plea of the plaintiff. Expressions from a trial.