AMOS
The prophet Amos came from Judah, but his ministry was primarily to Israel, the northern kingdom. He was a herdsman/farmer (7:14–15), and his book contains many rural allusions. He did not have the formal training of a prophet but was called of God and effectively preached God’s Word.
Under Jeroboam II, the northern kingdom was enjoying a time of peace and prosperity; interest in “religion” was high. But the “revival” was shallow and had little effect on the everyday life of the people. The rich were getting richer, and the poor had no one to defend them. Amos warned that God was sending judgment to Israel and the nations around her, and in 722 b.c., Assyria brought that judgment.
The book contains eight accusations against the nations (chaps. 1–2), three messages about the sins of Israel (chaps.
The name Amos means “to be burdened” (2:13), and he certainly was burdened because of the sins of his people.