Arguing From Amos — Lesson 6
January 16, 2009
Arguing from Amos – Autumn/Winter Study Series
“Israel’s Future: Fear and Famine” Chapter 8
Sunday and Wednesday Adult Bible Class
West Broad Church of Christ
January 18, 2009
Dr. J.L. Nesmith, Jr., Facilitator
Introduction:
In Chapter 7, we saw Amos speak to God on behalf of a sinful nation. We also saw him stand up to a religious leader who sought to derail his ministry. In observing Amos’s examples, we identify behaviors that will enhance our effectiveness as we serve Jesus in downtown Richmond. Chapter 8 returns us to the visions we saw in the previous chapter. What is the meaning of this vision, and how does that meaning impact us as Christians today?
I. Review of the Fruit (8:1-2)
The chapter begins with a “question and answer” session between God and Amos.
· A Horror in Hebrew
Question: How do these verses speak to our Christian understanding of perpetual forgiveness? How do they impact our thinking regarding divine punishment?
II. Results of the Fruit (8:3-14)
God promised “the end.” How will that end be revealed among the “chosen people?”
· From worship to woe (8:3-6). Exercise: Think of a typical Sunday morning in America. Are these verses applicable? Defend your answer.
· Catastrophe and catechism (8:7-10)
· Paucity and prophecy (8:11-14)
Conclusion:
In Amos 8, the prophet reveals that the people of God will be destroyed despite his intense and enduring love for them. Question: How do you respond to this assessment? How does this truth impact your life and the life of the West Broad Church of Christ?
