Amos 3 - Introduction

PART II. Chapter S 3 6

In the second part of Amos's book the indictment and sentence of Amos 2:6-16 are further developed and justified. It consists of three main discourses, each introduced by the solemn opening words, Hear ye this word(Amos 3:1; Amos 4:1; Amos 5:1).

CHAPTER 3

Amos begins by rudely shaking the Israelites from their security. The Israelites argued that the fact of Jehovah's having chosen the nation was a guarantee of its safety; but the prophet replies, You mistake the conditions of His choice; for that very reason He will punish you for your iniquities (Amos 3:1-2). Nor does the prophet say this without a real power constraining him: can any effect in nature take place without a sufficient cause? (Amos 3:3-8). Let the heathen themselves testify if justicerules in Samaria! (Amos 3:9 f.) Ere long, Jehovah will visit Israel: its pride and luxury will be brought to a sudden end, its palaces will be spoiled, and its altars thrown down (Amos 3:11-15).