Amos 7:1

This is what the Lord GOD showed me: He was preparing swarms of locusts just after the king's harvest, as the late spring crop was coming up.

Study Bible

This is what the Lord GOD showed me
The phrase emphasizes the divine origin of the vision. "Lord GOD" in Hebrew is "Adonai Yahweh," underscoring God's sovereign authority and covenant relationship with Israel. The use of "showed" indicates a revelation, a common prophetic experience where God communicates His will or impending actions. This sets the stage for understanding the vision as a direct message from God, not merely a human interpretation.

He was preparing swarms of locusts
The imagery of "swarms of locusts" is significant in the ancient Near Eastern context. Locusts were a symbol of devastating judgment, often used by God as a tool of discipline (Exodus 10:12-15). The Hebrew word for locusts, "arbeh," suggests a multitude, emphasizing the overwhelming nature of the impending disaster. This preparation by God indicates His control over nature and His ability to use it to fulfill His purposes.

just after the king’s harvest
This phrase situates the vision in a specific agricultural and economic context. The "king’s harvest" likely refers to the first harvest, which was often claimed by the monarchy as a form of tax or tribute. This timing highlights the severity of the judgment, as it would affect the nation’s sustenance and economic stability. It underscores the message that God’s judgment can impact even the highest authorities and their resources.

as the late spring crop was coming up
The "late spring crop" refers to the second harvest, which was crucial for the sustenance of the people. In Hebrew, this is the "lekesh," the latter growth that follows the early rains. The timing of the locusts' arrival, just as this crop was emerging, signifies a complete and devastating loss. This detail emphasizes the thoroughness of God’s judgment and serves as a call to repentance, as the people would be left without their expected provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord GOD
The sovereign and divine authority who reveals the vision to Amos. In Hebrew, "Adonai Yahweh" emphasizes God's lordship and covenant relationship with Israel.

2. Amos
A prophet from Tekoa, called by God to deliver messages of judgment and repentance to Israel. His role is to communicate God's visions and warnings.

3. Swarms of Locusts
Symbolic of impending judgment and devastation. In the agrarian society of Israel, locusts represented a severe threat to survival and prosperity.

4. The King’s Harvest
Refers to the initial harvest, likely reserved for the king's use, indicating the severity of the locust plague as it affects even the royal provisions.

5. Late Spring Crop
Represents the subsequent harvest, crucial for the sustenance of the people, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the impending disaster.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Judgment
God is in control of nature and uses it to fulfill His purposes. Recognize His authority and respond with humility and repentance.

The Role of the Prophet
Prophets are called to deliver God's message, even when it is difficult. We are also called to speak truth in love, guided by the Holy Spirit.

The Urgency of Repentance
The vision of locusts serves as a warning. We must examine our lives and turn from sin before judgment comes.

Dependence on God for Provision
The threat to the harvest reminds us of our reliance on God for our daily needs. Trust in His provision and seek His kingdom first.

The Impact of Sin on Community
The locust plague affects the entire nation, illustrating how sin and disobedience can have widespread consequences. Strive for personal holiness and communal accountability.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the vision of locusts in Amos 7:1 reflect God's sovereignty and power over creation?

2. In what ways can we, like Amos, be faithful in delivering God's message to those around us?

3. How does the imagery of locusts in Amos 7:1 compare to other biblical accounts of locust plagues, and what lessons can we learn from these parallels?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we are living in a state of repentance and readiness for God's judgment?

5. How can we cultivate a deeper dependence on God for our daily needs, as illustrated by the threat to the harvest in Amos 7:1?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 1:4
This passage also describes a locust plague, emphasizing the theme of divine judgment and the need for repentance.

Exodus 10:12-15
The plague of locusts in Egypt serves as a historical precedent, illustrating God's power to use natural phenomena as instruments of judgment.

Revelation 9:3-4
Locusts are used symbolically in the end times, connecting the theme of divine judgment across both Testaments.