Justice: A Study in AmosSample

What does it say?

Amos prophesied God’s coming judgment on Judah, Israel, and neighboring nations – listing each of their sins.

What does it mean?

God’s patience with the rebellious nations of Israel, Judah, and their neighbors, had run out. The repeated phrase, “for three sins … even for four,” emphasizes the critical level their sin had reached. The listing of each nation’s sins demonstrated the Lord’s continued patience. God’s people must have wholeheartedly agreed as they listened to God’s coming judgment on their pagan neighbors. Rather than face their own sin, they mistook God’s patience as His being unconcerned with their behavior and continued to disobey God’s law. However, His judgment would be impartial.

How should I respond?

We easily recognize when others disobey God. The more difficult task is turning our gaze inward and identifying our own rebellion against Him. Unencumbered fellowship with Christ starts by recognizing any sin that has crept into your life. Before pointing fingers at someone else, examine your heart for a similar sinful attitude. Then, deal with your disobedience by asking for God’s forgiveness and putting the sin behind you. How might you be judging a fellow believer’s sin while minimizing your own? Admit any areas God brings to mind so your relationship with Him can be as it should be.