Review

Before we move on, let’s review what we have covered so far. The one speaking is the prophet Amos from the southern kingdom of Judah. Those hearing his prophecy are the people of the northern kingdom of Israel. (1) The first prophecy of judgment was spoken against three Gentile nations: Damascus (Syria), Gaza (Philistia), and Tyre (Phoenicia). The people of Israel who were listening to this must have rejoiced greatly. (2) The next prophecy of judgment was spoken against Edom, Ammon, and Moab. These three nations were related to the people of Israel. Therefore, even if they heard the prophecy that judgment would come upon these people, they would not have been able to rejoice as much as at first. On the contrary, they must have felt some uneasiness. (3) Furthermore, the next prophecy of judgment is spoken against Judah. That is today’s passage. Judah is in a brotherly relationship with the people of Israel. Since it is their brother nation that is to be judged, the people of Israel must have been shaken. Moreover, the prophet who speaks of that judgment is from Judah. If Amos would speak such a severe prophecy against his own nation, it could be imagined that he would also speak of judgment against the northern kingdom of Israel without mercy.

The sins of Judah

The sins of the southern kingdom of Judah are as follows: (1) Judah’s sin lay in abandoning “the Law of the Lord.” “Law” refers to the Mosaic Law. (2) They worshiped the “lies” that their fathers followed, that is the gods of idols, and by them they were led astray. (3) Because of that sin, Judah will be destroyed by fire. The palaces of Jerusalem were also burned with fire. This was fulfilled in 586 BC, at the time of the Babylonian captivity. Just because one has been given a special mission from God does not mean one will be spared from judgment. From the one who has been entrusted with much, much will be required. Peter teaches as follows. “For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” (1 Pet. 4:17). Let us confirm our own faith once again. Also, remembering how miserable the end is for those who are not yet saved, let us devote ourselves with all our strength to proclaiming the gospel. We must not commit the same sins as the people of Judah.