Amos 1—2: Judgment & Justice
PICTURE THIS IF you will. It is about the middle of the eighth century B.C. People are flocking to the worship center at Bethel, people whom we might call "upper middle class." The design of the building is very appealing. The choirs are polished. Several brilliant orators are at hand. It feels good to come here—uplifting music, beautiful surroundings and comforting words. There is even opportunity for the people to placate their consciences by bringing offerings. But wait a minute! Who is that seedy-looking character? He speaks like a shepherd; he looks like a shepherd; he even smells like a shepherd—but he sure doesn't sound like a shepherd!
Warming Up to God
Recall something you never thought would happen to you. How did you feel when it did happen?
Read Amos 1—2. »
Discovering the Word
- How does 1:2 set the tone for Amos's message?
- Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon and Moab all represented enemies of Israel. How would the Israelites feel as they heard prophecies against these nations (1:3—2:3)?
- The repeated phrase "For three sins . . . even for four" emphasizes God's patience before pronouncing judgment. What kinds of sin do the pagan nations have in common (1:3—2:3)?
- How are Judah's sins different from those of the pagan nations (2:4-5)?
- Amos cites a variety of sins of which Israel is guilty (2:6-8, 12). How would you categorize their sins?
- How are Israel's sins all the more serious in light of their history (2:9-11)?
Applying the Word
- As Christians, what can we do to bring relief and justice to the righteous, the needy, the poor and the oppressed?
- How can Amos's warnings to Israel keep us from being presumptuous about our status as God's children?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to grant you humility.
For Further Study
Christian Character by Andrea Sterk & Peter Scazzero