Introduction

The book of Amos is one that forces us to engage with issues of social justice. Again and again we are confronted with questions about how we are treating people in the wider society: Are we looking after the poor? Are we caring for the widows? Are we promoting the cause of justice and love?

Typically, in response to his teaching, we can be tempted to interpret and understand Amos’s words in a way that affirms our convictions and concerns. For example, if we are concerned about family life, we rejoice to hear Amos talk about sexual purity (e.g. Amos 2:7) and the fight against corruption in the law courts (Amos 5:10). We agree with Amos that if we are to make our society a better place, we must strengthen marriages and have a strong justice system. For others, Amos’s words against the rich and his concern for the poor are appealing. Clearly, he is advocating for widespread social changes and as Christians we must play our part in bringing inequality to an end.

Both of the issues mentioned are raised by Amos; they are valid concerns. However, the danger remains that we read and study this prophet and latch on to aspects of justice that we like but ignore those which challenge us. We pick and choose the verses to which we want to listen.

I think we can all agree that that is not an honest way of reading Scripture. When we pick and choose we are not listening to what Amos has to say. Instead we must recognize that he is God’s prophet; he gets to set the agenda and all of his words are relevant for us today.

As we consider the verses we read from Amos 5:1-17, we should notice the very deliberate structure of these verses. It is almost like a sandwich: there are lots of corresponding layers with the climax (the most important message) at the centre. There is a lament at the beginning (verses 1-3) and then another lament at the end (verses 16-17). After the lament comes a call to seek God and live (verses 4-6) and we find another call later on (verses 14-15). The first call is followed by an accusation (verse 7) and then another one can be found further in the text (verses 10-13), and in the centre of the sandwich (verses 8-9) is a song of praise to God.

The Lord who is at the centre of everything

• Explain how the song teaches us that God is Creator, Sustainer, and Judge.

• Explain the central focus of the song: the Lord. Who is the Lord? What has he revealed to us?

• Explain how the Lord gets to define what justice looks like.

• Apply: Give examples of what happens when people decide for themselves what is right and wrong. In this case, justice is determined by those in power and not by God.

Israel has ignored God and his justice

• Explain how the people of Israel have ignored God and his justice.

• Apply: Consider how we do the same today. Give examples of where we also act in a way that is not in keeping with God’s law.

• Explain how we must all stand before God one day and that this truth should humble us.

Seeking the Lord and being changed by him

• Explain what is meant with Seek the Lord and live: what does it not mean?

• Explain how the Lord can promise life for those who seek him.

• Explain how the Lord changes those who live in relationship with him.

• Apply: Give examples of the changes that God wants to make in our lives. Encourage people to seek relationship with God and not to think that attendance at religious meetings is sufficient.

Wailing in order to grab attention

• Explain why Amos begins and ends with a lament.

• Apply: Are we listening to what God’s Word teaches? Have we made any changes in our lives as a result?