AMOS. At a Glance.

Amos who is a theologically untrained shepherd who is called by God to preach against the sins of both Jews and Gentiles and to plead with his people to repent and return to the Lord. The name Amos means “burden”. He was from a little town of Tekoa, about five miles from Bethlehem in Judea. Amos during the 8^th century we understand is identified as a shepherd.

It is significant to note that Amos focuses on judgment for the whole nation. In the first couple chapters of Amos we are able to see a series of Oracles which are directed at surrounding nations. The listeners to the prophet are truly excited as the prophet is naming the judgment of their enemies. As the listeners are engaged and excited as the prophet references: Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, Moab and even Judah however, when the prophet references Israel (2:6) we understand that the conviction turned on Israel itself. This is a major turn of events.

From this we also gain an understanding how Jesus used a very similar technique as through the story the listeners are in tune and engaged in the story and like a dropped bomb, the conviction is turned on the listeners when they hear that the Samaritan turns out to be the hero. It is amazing to determine the patter through preaching that the listeners are engaged, and then at the last minute the conviction is changed and turns towards the listeners.

We learn that in chapters 3-6 we find oracles of judgment against Israel and how many are acting ignorant of their sin and failing to repent in chapters 4-6. We also find that in chapters 7-9 that Amos articulates how God will only allow for so much sin and basically how enough is enough. Another significant factor is the ending, Amos concludes with promise and hope. The pattern demonstrates that the purpose of judgment is not, but it is always intended to drive Israel toward repentance and renewal. Amos gives us an understanding of the patter of judgment, punishment, and also restoration.

Although this is not an extensive look into the Book of Amos, I am in hopes that you will find it encouraging to dive into this book and gain a better understanding of who the Hebrew Prophet Amos is.

Blessings,
Pastor Jonathan W. Pannell III