Introduction to Amos

May 3, 2015

Amos

1. The Lord (Yahweh) is the Creator of the universe; therefore his ethical norms are universal, and all people are subject to judgment in light of them.

Romans 1 18-23

2. Justice and righteousness in the treatment of other people are the key evidences of a right relationship to the Lord.

James 1:27

3. Religious ritual in the absence of just and righteous treatment of others is disgusting to God.

4. Israel's covenant with the Lord did not guarantee special protection for them when they broke the covenant. Rather, it meant that they would be held to a higher standard of obedience and would be subject to more scrutiny in judgment.

"Bema Seat"

1 Corinthians 3:5-15

2 Corinthians 5:6-10

5. Thus, the "Day of the Lord" would not be a time of miraculous deliverance for the unrepentant Israel. Rather it would be a time of terrible destruction.

Amos 3:2

Hebrews 12:7-11

1. The Present Consequences Of Sin Or Disobedience
2. Loss of Fellowship With the Lord
3. Divine Discipline From the Lord Here in Time
4. Loss of Power and Production
5. Loss of Opportunities
6. Loss of Desire and Motivation for Service
7. Broken Relationships and Disharmony
8. Loss of Physical Health and Vitality
9. Loss of Rewards at the Bema

6. Yet a faithful remnant would be preserved and would someday see a day of glorious restoration and blessing.

Application

Personal Praxis

Does your care toward others stem from empty ritualism, godless universalism, or Christ-centered conviction?

Community Praxis

Ask God to show Two Rivers Church how we can take care of the needy in our community.

Note: all scripture references are in HCSB