Authority of the Prophet’s Message

It seems that St. Peter and the Devil had an agreement to share the costs of maintaining the fence between Heaven and Hell. One weekend there was a bit of a brawl in Hell that got out of hand, and part of the fence was smashed. It went unfixed for weeks and St. Peter approached t … More

Authority

The people of Israel had experienced a unique, covenant relationship with the Lord because He had elected them from among all the nations to be His people (v. 1). The nation of Israel also had the privilege of having a unique “family relationship.” Along with the nation of Judah, they had been chosen to be God’s people. The Lord refers to them as “The whole family I brought up out of Egypt.” As such, they enjoyed a distinct privilege that was not shared by other nations. This privilege, however, also brought with it a responsibility. Those chosen by God were also liable to God for their response to Him. They had rejected God’s truth and the warnings of His prophets. As a result, they were subject to His punishment (v. 2). 

Seven searching questions are raised that reveal how events do not occur in nature or history without causes (vv. 3-8). An example of this is, “How can two walk together, except they be agreed (v. 3)?” Often, in answer to this it will be discovered that the soul is not in agreement with God and the answer will not come until the nation or individual have come back in agreement to God. These rhetorical questions grow in intensity. The final question, “Does disaster come to a city unless the Lord has done it (v. 6b)?”, reveals a fundamental truth of suffering. God is in control. Nothing happens outside of his will, and to think otherwise is foolishness.  

The Lord desired to disclose Himself so his servants could deliver His words before God’s judgment came (v. 7). Amos explained the cause behind His preaching as the call of the Lord (v. 8). Israel’s most wicked and idolatrous neighbors see God judge Israel (v. 9). Israel no longer knew how to do what was right (v. 10). The more they sinned, the harder it was to remember what God wanted. 

Application

Whether in marriage, business, or ministry I need to be very sure that I am in agreement with my partner.

Amos 3:1-10 (English Standard Version)


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