Amos: The Man and His Message — Lesson 3
December 14, 2008
Arguing from Amos — Autumn Study Series
“Oracles of Judgment – Call and Condemnation” Chapters 2-5
Sunday and Wednesday Adult Bible Class
West Broad Church of Christ
December 17, 2008
Dr. J.L. Nesmith, Jr., Facilitator
Introduction:
In Chapter 2, the prophet will turn his attention away from the surrounding nations and toward the people of God. What word will Amos speak to them? How does their situation as covenant people in the 8th century BC compare to our situation as Christians, today?
I. Amos – The View from the Mirror (2:6-5:14)
God speaks directly to people with whom he supposedly has relationship.
• The calm before confrontation
How did Israel respond to God’s graciousness and goodness? How does God respond?
• Base behaviors (2:6-16)
Examining Exodus. Question: Do you see a modern application of Amos’ words? What is it?
Prose from the past (2:9-12)
A woeful weight (2:13-16)
People with the name of God are not acting like God. Question: We wear the name “Christian” here at West Broad. Is that fact something we celebrate? Why?
In his third chapter Amos continues his indictment of Israel’s sin in the face of their Savior.
• Considering covenant (3:1-2). God is speaking to a nation for which he has acted. Question: What does this say to the Christian? How does covenant impact our commitment?
• Cause and effect (3:3-8)
• A woeful witness (3:9-10)
• A “ragged” reality (3:12)
• A revocation of refuge (3:14)
Question: Israel was called to greatness, but the nation descended into moral, social, and ethical grime. How does their story speak to ours as Christians in downtown Richmond?
In Chapter 4, we see the sins and punishment of the women and Israel’s refusal to repent despite God’s warnings (4:6-11). Question: What should we Christians learn from Amos’ message? Is something keeping us from learning these lessons? What?
Amos’ words have been largely negative, but can disaster be avoided?
• A song of sorrow (5:1-3)
• Reality over ritual (5:4-9). Question: In light of this verse, how do you respond to those who say they do not need “church,’ only a right relationship with God? Provide scriptural support for your answer.
• Lessons and lament (5:10-15)
Summation and Challenge:
Amos’ message is simple and powerful: corruption cannot be hidden behind religion. The truth of his day is truth in ours. Will we as Christians in downtown Richmond learn these lessons and enjoy God’s blessings, or follow Israel’s example and endure his wrath?
