Chapter 827 of 1163

AMOS 1–2

Amos denounces the sins of six gentile nations before he pronounces judgment on Judah (2:4–5) and Israel (2:6–16). God did not give His law to the gentile nations, but He still held them accountable for their sins against humanity. Israel and Judah sinned against God’s law (2:4) and God’s love (2:9–12); but the Gentiles sinned against their “inner law,” their conscience (Rom. 2:12–16).

The Gentiles sinned against their fellowman. Amos condemned their brutality, slavery, revenge, murder, and thievery. The nations seemed to get away with their sins but God eventually caught up with them. He is long-suffering, but He is also holy.

Being the chosen people of God, Israel and Judah had a greater responsibility before the Lord. In one way or another, they violated all the Ten Commandments; and that meant God would have to judge them (2:13–16).

If God judges lost people for their sins, what will He do to those who claim to know Him? Privilege brings responsibility (Luke 12:48), and where there is responsibility, there will be accountability. The people of Israel and Judah rejoiced when they heard Amos condemn their neighbors; but then he condemned God’s people for their sins, and that was not acceptable to them.

Is God being long-suffering toward you? Is His judgment of others a warning to you? Are you heeding it?

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