Prepare to Meet Your God (Amos 1:2-4:13)
In session 2, we discuss how the poetical nuances of Amos’ writing enhance the intensity of his message to the Israelite.
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The vision of Ozark Christian College is to glorify God by evangelizing the lost and edifying Christians worldwide. The mission of Ozark Christian College is to train men and women for Christian service as a degree-granting institution of biblical higher education.
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Prepare to Meet Your God (Amos 1:2-4:13)
Introductory Poem
- “The Lord roars from Zion and thunders from Jerusalem, the pastures of the shepherds dry up, and the top of Carmel withers” (1:2).
Judgment on Neighboring Nations
- The oracle to each people group follows a poetic pattern.
- “This is what the Lord says.”
- “For three sins, even four, I will not relent.”
- The nations: Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, and Moab.
- These nations have abused the Hebrews for centuries.
- As Amos boldly proclaims judgment on each nation for their atrocities against the Hebrews, you can picture the Israelites cheering and celebrating.
Surprise Judgment on Judah and Israel
- At the pinnacle of celebration, God’s fury will not relent from these detestable nations. We read a plot twist.
- Against Judah (Amos 2:4-5)
- Against Israel (Amos 2:6-16)
- Therefore, God promises that Israel will be punished for their sins. (Amos 3:12).
Prepare to meet your God.
- “Therefore this is what I will do to you, Israel, and because I will do this to you, Israel, prepare to meet your God” (Amos 4:12).
Session 2 Discussion Questions
- How do the poetical nuances of Amos’ writing enhance the intensity of his message?
- Is there a place in the church today of intense preaching that calls people out for their sins? Did Jesus ever speak this way? How do you personally respond to this style of preaching?
- In what areas of life are you not prepared to meet your God (Amos 4:12)? How can this be remedied?