Amos: The Man and His Message — Lesson 1
November 10, 2008
Arguing from Amos — Autumn Study Series
“Amos: The Man and His Message” Lesson 1
Sunday and Wednesday Adult Bible Class
West Broad Church of Christ
November 12, 2008
Dr. J.L. Nesmith, Jr., Facilitator
Introduction:
Our society and world are characterized by injustice, apathy, and religious hypocrisy.
• The situation in Haiti
• The situation in Africa
• The situation at home
Another nation was confronted by similar realities. What can we learn from that nation, and how can those learnings be applied personally and congregationally at West Broad?
I. Amos – The Man
You may have heard the statement, “the measure of a man.” What kind of man was Amos?
• Considering his name
• Considering his labor
• Considering his call
Question: Do you see similarities between these events and contemporary religious practice? Please explain.
Amos was a man minding his own business until he was called by God and given the “burden” of speaking for God. Question: Can you identify with Amos? How?
II. Amos – The Message
Understanding Amos’ environment helps us understand his message.
• On national mood
• On the work of kings
• On international impact
These events led to Israel’s belief that they were truly enjoying God’s favor. But in thinking of God, they did not live for God.
• Development of two classes
• Mistreatment of the poor
• Dominance of the rich
• Perversion of the faith
Question: Consider God’s concerns in Amos’ day. Consider our own day. Do you see parallels? How does this affect Christ’s church? How does it affect you?
Summation and Challenge:
Amos spoke to a religious people whose faith life was inconsistent with their daily life. From the divine perspective, such behavior has always been a recipe for disaster. But here is the question: Is it a recipe that you will repeat . . . or repeal?
