7/23/2012
Amos 5
-A dirge is to be taken up for the lamentation of Israel
(i.e. the northern kingdom) for she has fallen and will not rise again
according to the Word of the LORD. Their false gods cannot save them in the day
of distress as they have turned justice into wormwood (bitterness) and cast
righteousness down to the earth (obliterated it) (Amos 5:7).
-A stanza of praise for God’s great works ensues as He is
glorified.
-Then the accusations are substantiated. The Israelites have
hated their reproofs and abhorred those who speak with integrity (Amos 5:10).
They have imposed heavy rent on the poor and exacted a tribute of grain from
them (Amos 5:11). *Judgment* They will build splendid houses, but will not live
in them (Amos 5:11b). They will not drink from the wine of their pleasant
planted vineyards (Amos 5:11b). They have committed many sins and distress the
righteous and accept bribes and turned aside the poor in the gate (arrogance)
(Amos 5:12).
-The remedy is given for a possible display of grace from
the LORD in verses 14-15. They are recommended to seek and love good rather
than evil plus establish justice once again in the gates.
-The day of the LORD is portrayed as a day of darkness and
gloom for them. God has rejected them and their festivals, solemn assemblies,
burnt offerings, grain offerings, peace offerings, and their music (Amos
5:21-23). Again the prophet reiterates what God would like to see…justice
rolling down like waters (water permeates and penetrates) and righteousness
like an ever-flowing stream (Amos 5:24). *Application* It should not be so hard
for us to understand the heart of the LORD here from this passage. He desires
righteousness and justice in every aspect of our lives and is grieved greatly
when we transgress His ways. Bless Him by the way you live your life today.
Treat others as you would like to be treated yourself (Matthew 7:12, Luke 6:31).
Verse to Memorize:
Amos 5:24
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