Amos was a prophet from Judah who was sent by God to prophesy to the northern kingdom of Israel during a time of prosperity and spiritual decay. His message is recorded in the Book of Amos, which emphasizes justice, righteousness, and the coming judgment of God.
Amos was not a professional prophet or priest. He was a herdsman and a gatherer of sycamore fruit (Amos 7:14). God called him from this humble background to confront the corruption of Israel’s leaders and people. Amos 7:15 says:
“Then the Lord took me as I followed the flock, and the Lord said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to My people Israel.’”
Though Israel was economically strong at the time, it was morally bankrupt. Amos condemned their idolatry, exploitation of the poor, bribery in the courts, and superficial worship. One of his key rebukes is found in Amos 5:21–24:
“I hate, I despise your feast days… But let justice run down like water, and righteousness like a mighty stream.”
Amos warned that God’s judgment would fall not only on the surrounding nations but also on Israel herself. He declared that the Day of the Lord would not be a day of blessing for them, but of darkness and destruction (Amos 5:18–20).
Despite the strong tone of judgment, Amos ends with a message of hope. God promises the restoration of David’s fallen tabernacle and the future blessing of His people. Amos 9:14 says:
“I will bring back the captives of My people Israel; they shall build the waste cities and inhabit them.”
The message of Amos reminds believers that true worship requires justice and righteousness, and that God will not ignore sin, even among His chosen people. Yet He is also merciful and faithful to restore those who return to Him.
