Let the Bible Speak UP

The Conclusion of the Matter

In the final installment of Brian’s series on Amos, we reflect on the book as a whole and how it leads to the final chapter of the book. Justifying Israel’s destruction was not something God owed them, but it’s done anyway. It was critical for Israel to understand why because God wasn’t done with the relationship yet, despite rebellion. The book ends leaving damage only Jesus can repair. God isn’t done with you either.

Ripe Basket of Fruit

Amos, once again, sees a vision from God. This time, he sees a basket of summer fruit. This is typically a good thing—who doesn’t love a nice fruit basket? In this case, Israel’s sin is ripe for harvest. The sin will soon be blotted out and lamentation will fill the air. What, if anything, does this say about Christianity today?

The Plumb Line Vision

In a prophetic vision, Amos sees a plumb line, the standard of righteousness, being held against a nation who failed to meet the requirements. It’s important for societies to occasionally reflect on what is expected of them, and in this case, Israel failed. They did not fail because of their appearance, lack of wealth, or because they didn’t have the right politics—they failed because they did not obey God. How does our society measure up?

Woe to Those at Ease

Complacency is a trap many Christians fall into. In reality, laziness is not the problem, but rather pride. In this episode, Brian reflects on Amos 6 and God’s call to action, and what it says to us today.

When Justice Is Absent

One of the harshest critiques of Israel by God in Amos is the lack of justice being properly executed among His people. This leads Amos to prophesy, “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” The Gospel later reveals that Jesus is the way perfect justice will eventually arrive.

The Lord’s Plea

During the reign of Assyrian King Ashurbanipal, he brutalized his enemies. He drove hooks through the jaws of his captives and caged up foreign kings like dogs. These acts were unthinkable among God’s elect! Now this familiar language is used to describe what God will do to Israel if she remains in her sin. What will happen to us if we do the same? “Prepare to meet your God!”

The Lord Declares

In this episode, God impresses to Israel the gravity of the danger they are in because of their sin. This may lead us to wonder where our own sin puts us. Are you in danger?

What Have I Done?

As Brian continues marching through Amos, the rod of discipline turns to God’s own, Israel. In this passage, we are challenged to turn inwards and reflect critically on whether we are properly living up to our holy calling.

Oracles Against the Nations

In the second installment of Brian’s series through Amos, he discusses God’s condemnation of the various foreign nations surrounding Israel. This passage reveals an important reality about God, namely that He does not tolerate sin.

The Lord Roars from Zion

In this detailed introduction to the book and prophet Amos, Brian explores the fascinating background of a minor prophet rich with messages for the church today.