Amos 5:3

This is what the Lord GOD says: "The city that marches out a thousand strong will only see a hundred return, and the one that marches out a hundred strong will have but ten left in the house of Israel."

Study Bible

For this is what the Lord GOD says
This phrase underscores the authority and divine origin of the message. The Hebrew term for "Lord GOD" is "Adonai Yahweh," emphasizing both the sovereignty and covenantal relationship God has with Israel. It is a reminder that the words following are not merely human predictions but divine declarations, carrying the weight of God's ultimate authority and truth.

The city that marches out a thousand strong
The imagery of a city sending out a thousand soldiers reflects a time of war or conflict. In ancient Israel, cities were often fortified and had their own militias. The number "thousand" symbolizes completeness or a large, formidable force. Historically, this reflects the confidence and self-reliance of Israel's military might, which they believed could protect them from any threat.

will have only a hundred left
This drastic reduction from a thousand to a hundred signifies a devastating loss. The Hebrew context here suggests a divine judgment where human strength and numbers are rendered ineffective. It serves as a sobering reminder of the futility of relying on human power without God's favor and protection.

and the town that marches out a hundred strong
A smaller town with a hundred soldiers represents a less formidable force compared to a city. Yet, even this smaller number, which might have been considered sufficient for local defense, is subject to the same divine judgment. This highlights that no community, regardless of size, is exempt from accountability before God.

will have only ten left
The reduction from a hundred to ten is even more severe proportionally than the previous example. The number ten, often seen as a complete set in biblical terms, here represents a remnant. This remnant is a recurring theme in Scripture, where God preserves a small group for His purposes, even amidst widespread judgment.

to the house of Israel
The "house of Israel" refers to the entire nation, emphasizing that this message is not just for individual cities or towns but for the collective people of God. Historically, this period was marked by Israel's disobedience and idolatry, leading to God's judgment. Yet, it also implies hope, as the concept of a remnant suggests that God’s covenant with Israel remains, and His ultimate purpose for them will be fulfilled.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amos
A prophet from the southern kingdom of Judah, called by God to deliver a message of judgment to the northern kingdom of Israel during a time of prosperity and moral decay.

2. Israel
The northern kingdom, which had turned away from God, engaging in idolatry and social injustice, leading to impending judgment.

3. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and just God who speaks through Amos, warning Israel of the consequences of their disobedience.

4. The City and the Town
Representations of the people of Israel, illustrating the drastic reduction in their numbers due to divine judgment.

5. Judgment
The event of divine retribution that God warns will come upon Israel for their sins, resulting in significant loss and devastation.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's warnings through His prophets are not idle threats but assured outcomes if repentance is not pursued.

The Consequences of Disobedience
Disobedience to God's commands leads to severe consequences, as seen in the drastic reduction of Israel's numbers.

The Call to Repentance
Even in judgment, there is an implicit call to repentance, urging us to turn back to God before it's too late.

The Remnant Principle
Despite widespread judgment, God often preserves a faithful remnant, offering hope and continuity for His people.

The Importance of Heeding God's Word
Ignoring God's warnings leads to destruction; therefore, we must listen and respond to His Word with obedience.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the reduction in numbers from a thousand to a hundred, and from a hundred to ten, illustrate the severity of God's judgment on Israel?

2. In what ways does Amos 5:3 reflect the principles found in Deuteronomy 28 regarding blessings and curses?

3. How can the concept of a remnant, as seen in Amos and other prophetic books, provide hope for believers today?

4. What are some modern-day examples of ignoring God's warnings, and what can we learn from Israel's experience in Amos 5:3?

5. How can we ensure that we are part of the faithful remnant that remains obedient to God in times of widespread disobedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 28
This chapter outlines the blessings for obedience and curses for disobedience, providing a backdrop for understanding the consequences Israel faces in Amos 5:3.

Isaiah 1
Isaiah also speaks of a remnant, emphasizing the theme of judgment and the hope of a small group that remains faithful.

Hosea 4
Hosea, a contemporary of Amos, similarly addresses Israel's unfaithfulness and the resulting judgment, reinforcing the message of Amos.