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The Book of Amos

 

            "Surely the Sovereign LORD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets.
            
             Amos was an ordinary man living as a shepherd in the small town of Tekoa. He was born in Judah and prophesied in Israel. As Amos wrote, he made it clear that he did not consider himself a prophet, or came from a family of prophets, but simply a grower of sycamore figs. (Amos 7: 14-15). His simple way of life supported his teachings. He did not teach or say something that he would not do himself. His simple teachings did not match his environment. In fact, his environment was the exact opposite of simple. During this time, the people of Israel were enjoying their lavish lifestyles filled with parties and festivals. Never has Israel been this peaceful since Solomon ruled. They did not want to hear any news that was negative.
             People were not listening to the words of Amos. They were blinded by material goods and were distancing themselves from Yahweh. Israel was a nation filled with sins. They would commit idolatry, and worship pagan gods. The leaders of Israel were greedy and corrupted and oppressed the poor. The rich and powerful people had large parties and made sacrifices and offerings and looked down upon the poor saying that because they do not worship the way we do that is why they are in the position they are in. Amos had enough of what he saw. He prophesied to the people that judgment is near. Most of the prophets focused on teaching redemption and restoration of their lives, Amos directed his focus on the people of Israel. Amos knew his purpose, and he knew what he had to do to get his point across to the people of Israel.
             Amos made sure that the people of Israel knew they would be held accountable for the mistreatment of others. In his writings, it pointed out multiple times the failure of Gods idea of justice. They were selling off needy people for goods, taking advantage of the helpless, oppressing the poor, and the men were using women immorally (Amos 2:68; 3:10; 4:1; 5:1112; 8:46).


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