Amos 7:15

But the LORD took me from following the flock and said to me, 'Go, prophesy to My people Israel.'

Study Bible

But the LORD took me from following the flock
This phrase highlights the divine initiative in Amos's calling. The Hebrew word for "took" is "laqach," which implies a forceful or deliberate action. It suggests that Amos's transition from shepherd to prophet was not of his own volition but a direct intervention by God. Historically, shepherds were seen as humble and lowly, yet God often chose such individuals for His purposes, as seen with David. This underscores the theme that God values obedience and humility over status or position.

and said to me
The phrase "and said to me" emphasizes the personal and direct communication between God and Amos. The Hebrew verb "amar" is used here, which is a common term for speaking but in this context, it signifies a divine command. This direct communication is a hallmark of prophetic calling, where God imparts His message to be delivered to His people. It reflects the intimate relationship between God and His prophets, where they are entrusted with His words.

‘Go, prophesy to My people Israel.’
The command "Go, prophesy" is a clear directive from God, using the Hebrew word "halak" for "go," which implies movement with purpose. The term "prophesy" comes from the Hebrew "naba," meaning to speak or sing by inspiration. This indicates that Amos's messages were not his own but were divinely inspired. The phrase "My people Israel" signifies God's enduring covenant relationship with Israel, despite their disobedience. It highlights God's desire for repentance and restoration, showing His love and commitment to His chosen people. This calling of Amos serves as a reminder that God often uses unlikely individuals to fulfill His divine purposes, emphasizing His sovereignty and grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amos
A shepherd and fig tree farmer from Tekoa, called by God to be a prophet to Israel. His humble beginnings highlight God's ability to use anyone for His purposes.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who calls and commissions Amos to deliver His message to the people of Israel.

3. Israel
The northern kingdom, which had turned away from God, engaging in idolatry and social injustice. Amos is sent to prophesy against their sins.

4. Tekoa
A small town in Judah, south of Jerusalem, where Amos was from. It emphasizes the contrast between Amos's origins and his mission field in Israel.

5. Prophecy
The act of delivering God's message. Amos's role as a prophet was to speak God's truth to a wayward nation.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereign Choice
God chooses whom He wills, regardless of their background or status. Amos's call reminds us that God can use anyone for His purposes.

Obedience to God's Call
Amos's response to God's call is immediate and obedient. We should be ready to respond to God's call in our lives, even if it leads us out of our comfort zones.

The Importance of Prophecy
Prophecy is a vital part of God's communication with His people. We should value and heed the messages God sends through His chosen messengers.

God's Concern for Justice
Amos's message to Israel was one of justice and righteousness. We are called to reflect God's heart for justice in our own lives and communities.

Faithfulness in Small Beginnings
Amos's humble beginnings as a shepherd remind us that faithfulness in small tasks can lead to greater responsibilities in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Amos's background as a shepherd influence your understanding of his prophetic ministry?

2. In what ways can you relate to Amos's call to leave his familiar surroundings to fulfill God's purpose?

3. How does the account of Amos challenge you to respond to God's call in your own life, even if it seems daunting?

4. What parallels can you draw between Amos's message to Israel and the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament?

5. How can you apply the principles of justice and righteousness from Amos's prophecy to your daily life and community involvement?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 16
Just as God chose David, a shepherd, to be king, He chose Amos, a shepherd, to be a prophet. This highlights God's pattern of calling unlikely individuals for His purposes.

Exodus 3
Moses was called by God from tending sheep to lead Israel out of Egypt, similar to Amos's call from shepherding to prophesying.

Matthew 4
Jesus calls fishermen to be His disciples, showing that God often calls ordinary people to extraordinary tasks.