Amos Part 1

Who: Written by Amos, the prophet
What: A prophecy against the nations and Israel
Where: Written specifically to the northern kingdom (Israel)
When: Amos prophesied prior to the fall of Israel in 722
Why: To pronounce judgment on the northern kingdom

Prophecies against the nations

#1 (1:3-5) DAMASCUS
#2 (1:6-8) GAZA
#3 (1:9-10) TYRE
#4 (1:11-12) EDOM
#5 (1:13-15) AMMON
#6 (2:1-3) MOAB

Six represents the weakness of man. It's possible Israel believed the prophecy would end with these 6 judgments, but Amos continued

#7 (2:4-5) JUDAH

Seven represents perfection. It's possible Israel believed everyone (even Judah) was about to be judged but they would remain safe, but Amos continued

#8 (2:6-16) ISRAEL

Thus, just like all the peoples above, Israel was soon to face judgment from God for their wickedness. Why?

THE REASONS FOR JUDGMENT
1. With great power comes great responsibility (Amos 3:1-2)
2. God does not make empty threats(Amos 3:3-8)
3. God would use Israel as an example after all(Amos 3:9-15)
4. Their rulers were like the cows of Bashan (Amos 4:1-3)
5. The people of Israel loved to sin (Amos 4:4-5)