Introduction to the prophet Amos
The 30th book of the Bible, consisting of 9 chapters
God is just—regardless of status or position. Unrighteousness—sin without repentance—will always be met with judgment!
With Amos, whose name means “burden” or “burden-bearer,” we come to the third of the so-called “minor” prophets.
His call to be a prophet was primarily for the Northern Kingdom of the 10 tribes of Israel, during the long reign of King Jeroboam II, around the end of the 9th century B.C.
Under his rule, the land had reached an economic heyday—but behind this beautiful facade, moral decay in the state, human ruthlessness, selfishness, and spiritual immorality were growing ever more rampant.
Amos himself, however, came from the Southern Kingdom, from Tekoa in Judah, about a half-day’s journey southwest of Jerusalem; he was therefore not a “citizen” of the land of Israel.
In the Southern Kingdom of Judah, the prophet Joel was still preaching God’s word, while in Israel, alongside Amos, Jonah and later the prophet Hosea were also active.
Amos was by trade both a shepherd and a mulberry and fig grower—simple, nature-oriented occupations—and this is reflected in his clear language.
In doing so, a profound insight into God and His nature becomes clear—one that apparently even an ordinary person can find in His creation 🙂
In addition to the judgment—first upon the nations, but later also upon the Jews—the prophet Amos also proclaims the restoration of Israel in the end times: its flourishing under God’s blessing and the kingdom of peace that will follow under the Messiah.
Outline of the Book of Amos:
Amos Chapter 1
I. Introduction; Announcement of God’s Judgment on the Nations (Chapters 1–2)
Judgment on Israel’s Neighboring Nations
Amos Chapter 2
A just God must also punish the sins of Judah and Israel
Amos Chapter 3
II. Three messages of judgment to Israel regarding the necessity of divine judgment (Chapters 3–6)
God’s election does not protect from necessary punishment
Amos Chapter 4
Israel refuses to repent and turn to God despite chastisement
Amos Chapter 5
Amos’ Lament over Israel and Call to Repentance
Amos Chapter 6
Warning Against Overconfidence and Self-Love
God Abhors the Pride and Arrogance of His People
Amos Chapter 7
III. The Five Visions of Amos Concerning the End of Divine Longsuffering and the Coming Judgment (7:1–9:7)
Vision of three judgments against Israel—locusts, fire, and lead—and the prophet’s intercession
Expulsion of the prophet from Bethel by the priest Amaziah
Amos Chapter 8
Fourth Vision of a Basket of Ripe Fruit – The End of Israel
A Threat Against the Usurious Grain Merchants – The Rich
An Announcement of Divine Punishments (Solar Eclipse, Mourning, Abandonment by God in Utter Distress)
A time will come when people will long in vain for God’s word
The fifth and final vision – God above the altar; there is no escape from His judgment
Amos Chapter 9
IV. Concluding Address: Inspection of the people; restoration of the kingdom of David; the future time of salvation for God’s people
The coming restoration of Israel and the promise that they will no longer have to endure exile
Content of the prophet Amos:
Amos chapter 1
Amos chapter 2
Amos chapter 3
Amos chapter 4
Amos chapter 5
Amos chapter 6
Amos chapter 7
Amos chapter 8
Amos chapter 9