Amos 7:11

for this is what Amos has said: 'Jeroboam will die by the sword, and Israel will surely go into exile, away from their homeland.'"

Study Bible

For this is what Amos has said
This phrase introduces the prophetic message attributed to Amos, a shepherd and fig tree farmer turned prophet. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) implies a declaration or proclamation, emphasizing the authority and divine inspiration behind Amos's words. Historically, prophets were seen as God's mouthpieces, and their messages were often met with resistance, especially when they challenged the status quo or foretold doom.

‘Jeroboam will die by the sword
Jeroboam II was the king of Israel during Amos's time, and his reign was marked by prosperity and expansion. However, the phrase "die by the sword" indicates a violent end, a common fate for rulers in turbulent times. The Hebrew word for "sword" (חֶרֶב, chereb) often symbolizes divine judgment. This prophecy would have been shocking, as Jeroboam's reign was seen as successful, yet it underscores the theme of divine justice and the consequences of idolatry and injustice prevalent in Israel.

and Israel will surely go into exile
The certainty of exile is emphasized by the Hebrew construction, which can be translated as "going, she will go" (גָּלֹה תִגְלֶה, galoh tigleh), indicating an inevitable and complete displacement. Exile was a severe punishment, representing not just physical removal but also spiritual and cultural dislocation. Historically, the Assyrian conquest led to the exile of the Northern Kingdom, fulfilling this prophecy. This serves as a warning of the consequences of turning away from God and the covenant.

away from their homeland
The term "homeland" (אֲדָמָה, adamah) refers to the land given to the Israelites by God, a place of identity and divine promise. Being taken away from it signifies a loss of divine favor and protection. This phrase highlights the gravity of Israel's impending judgment, as the land was central to their covenant relationship with God. Theologically, it serves as a call to repentance and a reminder of the importance of faithfulness to God's commands.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amos
A prophet from Tekoa, a small town in Judah, called by God to deliver messages of judgment to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Amos was not a professional prophet but a shepherd and a fig tree farmer.

2. Jeroboam II
The king of Israel during Amos's prophetic ministry. His reign was marked by economic prosperity but also by significant moral and spiritual decline.

3. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, consisting of ten tribes, which had separated from Judah. During Amos's time, Israel was experiencing prosperity but was also steeped in idolatry and injustice.

4. Exile
The prophesied event where the people of Israel would be taken captive and removed from their land due to their disobedience and idolatry.

5. Bethel
A significant religious center in the Northern Kingdom where Amos delivered his prophecies. It was a place of idol worship, contrary to the worship of Yahweh.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of God's Judgment
God's warnings through His prophets are not idle threats. The prophecy against Jeroboam and Israel underscores the certainty of divine judgment when a nation turns away from God.

The Consequences of Idolatry and Injustice
Israel's prosperity led to complacency and moral decay. This serves as a warning that material success without spiritual integrity leads to downfall.

The Role of the Prophet
Amos's courage in delivering an unpopular message reminds us of the importance of speaking truth, even when it is uncomfortable or unwelcome.

Repentance and Restoration
While judgment is certain, God's desire is for repentance and restoration. The call to return to God is implicit in the warnings of judgment.

The Sovereignty of God
God's control over nations and history is evident. He raises and deposes leaders according to His purposes, reminding us of His ultimate authority.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the prophecy of Amos 7:11 reflect the broader themes of justice and righteousness found throughout the book of Amos?

2. In what ways can the prosperity of Israel during Jeroboam II's reign serve as a warning to modern societies that prioritize economic success over spiritual health?

3. How does the role of Amos as a prophet challenge us to speak truth in our own communities, even when it may be unpopular?

4. What parallels can you draw between the warnings of exile in Amos and the covenant curses outlined in Deuteronomy 28? How do these connections deepen our understanding of God's expectations for His people?

5. How can we apply the lessons of Amos 7:11 to our personal lives, particularly in terms of recognizing and addressing areas of idolatry or injustice?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 14:23-29
Provides historical context for Jeroboam II's reign, highlighting the prosperity and expansion of Israel during his time, which contrasts with the moral and spiritual decay Amos addresses.

Hosea 10:5-8
Another prophet, Hosea, also speaks of the impending judgment and exile of Israel, emphasizing the consequences of idolatry and unfaithfulness to God.

Deuteronomy 28:36-37
The warnings of exile and destruction for disobedience to God's covenant, which Amos's prophecy echoes, showing the fulfillment of these covenant curses.