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Judgment on Israel’s Neighbors (Jeremiah 12:14–17) 1These are the words of Amos, who was among the sheepherdersa of Tekoa—what he saw concerning Israel two yearsb before the earthquake, in the days when Uzziah was king of Judah and Jeroboam son of Jehoashc was king of Israel. 2He said: “The LORD roars from Zion and raises His voice from Jerusalem; the pastures of the shepherds mourn, and the summit of Carmel withers.” 3This is what the LORD says: “For three transgressions of Damascus, even four, I will not revoke My judgment,d because they threshed Gilead with sledges of iron. 4So I will send fire upon the house of Hazael to consume the citadels of Ben-hadad. 5I will break down the gates of Damascus; I will cut off the rulere from the Valley of Avenf and the one who wields the scepter in Beth-eden. The people of Aram will be exiled to Kir,” says the LORD. 6This is what the LORD says: “For three transgressions of Gaza, even four, I will not revoke My judgment, because they exiled a whole population, delivering them up to Edom. 7So I will send fire upon the walls of Gaza, to consume its citadels. 8I will cut off the ruler of Ashdod and the one who wields the scepter in Ashkelon. I will turn My hand against Ekron, and the remnant of the Philistines will perish,” says the Lord GOD. 9This is what the LORD says: “For three transgressions of Tyre, even four, I will not revoke My judgment, because they delivered up a whole congregation of exiles to Edom and broke a covenant of brotherhood. 10So I will send fire upon the walls of Tyre to consume its citadels.” 11This is what the LORD says: “For three transgressions of Edom, even four, I will not revoke My judgment, because he pursued his brother with the sword and stifled all compassion; his anger raged continually, and his fury flamed incessantly. 12So I will send fire upon Teman to consume the citadels of Bozrah.” 13This is what the LORD says: “For three transgressions of the Ammonites, even four, I will not revoke My judgment, because they ripped open the pregnant women of Gilead in order to enlarge their territory. 14So I will kindle a fire in the walls of Rabbah to consume its citadels amid war cries on the day of battle and a violent wind on the day of tempest. 15Their king will go into exileg — he and his princes together,” says the LORD. Footnotes: 1 a Or sheep breeders 1 b Or during the two years 1 c Hebrew Joash, a variant of Jehoash 3 d Or I will not revoke the punishment; Hebrew I will not revoke it; also in verses 6, 9, 11, and 13 5 e Or the inhabitants 5 f Aven means wickedness. 15 g Possibly Milcom will go into exile; Milcom, also called Molech, was god of the Ammonites; see Leviticus 18:21 and 1 Kings 11:7. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Amos 1 Summary Judgment on Israel's Neighbors Verse 1 – The Shepherd’s Introduction Amos, a herdsman from the small town of Tekoa in Judah, receives God’s word during the reigns of Uzziah of Judah and Jeroboam II of Israel—two kings whose long, prosperous rules frame the setting of this prophecy. Verse 2 – The Lion’s Roar “The LORD roars from Zion,” announcing a storm of judgment so fierce that the lush pastures of the shepherds and the heights of Mount Carmel dry up under His voice. Verses 3–5 – Damascus: Brutality of War Damascus will be punished “for three transgressions...and for four” because Syria crushed Gilead “with sledges having iron teeth.” Fire will devour the palaces of Ben-hadad; the gates of the ancient city will be broken; its people will be exiled to Kir. Verses 6–8 – Gaza (Philistia): Slave-Trading and Violence Gaza and the other Philistine cities face the same “fire” for handing entire communities over to Edom. Their walls will fall, their kings perish, and “the remnant of the Philistines shall perish.” Verses 9–10 – Tyre (Phoenicia): Broken Treaties Tyre is condemned for turning friends into captives and trafficking them to Edom, shattering a covenant of brotherhood. Fire will consume Tyre’s mighty fortresses. Verses 11–12 – Edom: Vengeful Rage Edom’s unrelenting anger toward its brother Jacob will be met with consuming fire in Teman and Bozrah, wiping out its strongholds. Verses 13–15 – Ammon: Cruelty to the Helpless Ammon will be judged for ripping open pregnant women of Gilead to enlarge its borders. Its king and princes will go into exile; its capital Rabbah will burn amid the clash of battle and storm of the whirlwind. Amos 1 is a chapter replete with powerful prophetic declarations. The shepherd and farmer, Amos, is called upon by God to deliver stern warnings to the nations surrounding Israel. This chapter showcases the impartiality of God's judgment, stressing that punishment for sin and injustice is inevitable, irrespective of one's status or nationality. Historical Setting • Date: c. 760–750 BC, during a rare period of peace and wealth under Uzziah (Judah) and Jeroboam II (Israel). • Amos travels north to prophesy at Bethel, confronting a complacent society enjoying prosperity yet ignoring God’s standards. • The surrounding nations—Syria, Philistia, Phoenicia, Edom, and Ammon—also enjoy power but practice brutal warfare, slave-trading, and covenant treachery. Author and Occupation Amos is not a palace prophet or priest. He tends sheep and sycamore-fig trees (7:14-15), highlighting that God often chooses ordinary people to deliver extraordinary messages (see 1 Corinthians 1:27). “For Three Transgressions, Even Four” A Hebrew way of saying, “Their sin is overflowing.” God’s patience has run out. Similar numeric patterns appear in Proverbs 6:16-19. The Lion Image “The LORD roars from Zion” (1:2). Lions hunt with focus and ferocity; once the roar is heard, prey has little time left. Comparable pictures: Hosea 11:10; Revelation 10:3. Political Geography • Damascus (Aram/Syria) – northeast, strong chariot force. • Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Ekron (Philistia) – southwest coast, seafaring and military trade. • Tyre (Phoenicia) – northwest coast, famed for cedar and purple dye. • Edom – southeast, rugged mountains of Seir; descendants of Esau. • Ammon – east of Jordan, fertile plateau; descendants of Lot. Archaeological Notes • Damascus: Basalt sledges with iron spikes, used for threshing and possibly torture, match Amos’s graphic language. • Philistine Gaza: Excavations reveal burn layers in eighth-century strata, supporting Amos’s “fire” prophecy. • Tyre: Siege mounds and ash layers show multiple assaults before Nebuchadnezzar’s long siege (cf. Ezekiel 26). • Rabbah-Ammon: Fortification walls charred by later Babylonian fire indicate the ultimate fulfillment of Amos 1:14. Themes and Lessons Justice beyond Israel: God holds all nations accountable, not only His covenant people (see Romans 2:14-16). Human dignity: Cruelty toward the vulnerable—women, unborn children, captives—ignites divine anger. Broken covenants: Whether political or familial, violation of promises invites judgment (compare Psalm 15:4; Matthew 5:37). Links to Other Scriptures • Damascus judgment echoes Isaiah 17 and Jeremiah 49. • Philistia’s fate aligns with Zephaniah 2:4-7 and Zechariah 9:5-7. • Edom’s grudge parallels Obadiah; Hebrews 12:16-17 warns against Esau’s spirit of bitterness. • Ammon’s cruelty revisits the haunting past of Israel’s wars (Deuteronomy 3; Judges 11). New Testament Echoes The global reach of God’s justice foreshadows Acts 17:31—“He has set a day when He will judge the world in righteousness.” Jesus’ denunciation of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum (Matthew 11:21-24) mirrors Amos’s pattern: greater light means greater accountability. Practical Takeaways • Prosperity can lull a society into ignoring injustice. Wealth is a stewardship, not an excuse for exploitation. • National sins matter to God. Governments and citizens alike are responsible for how they treat outsiders and the defenseless. • Personal application: refuse to allow grudges to harden into perpetual anger (Ephesians 4:26-27). Break cycles of revenge through forgiveness and mercy. Key Hebrew Expressions • “Roars” (nārāh) – a sudden, thunderous call. • “Transgressions” (peshā‘îm) – willful rebellions, not accidental slips. • “Fire” (’ēsh) – common prophetic image for unstoppable judgment. Literary Flow 1. Intro & Divine Roar (vv. 1-2) 2. Six foreign nation oracles (vv. 3-15) 3. Israel and Judah’s turn comes in chapter 2, but the groundwork is laid: if God judges outsiders, how much more His own people. Christ in Amos 1 The Lion of Judah (Revelation 5:5) both roars in judgment and lays down His life to bring mercy. In Christ, justice and grace meet (Psalm 85:10), fulfilling the very holiness Amos announces. Enduring Hope The same God who roars also calls, “Seek Me and live” (Amos 5:4). Even amid fierce warnings, His ultimate goal is turning hearts back to Himself. Connections to Additional Scriptures Micah 6:8 He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God? This verse complements the call to justice found in Amos. Romans 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.' This New Testament passage echoes the theme of divine justice. Psalm 9:7-8 But the LORD abides forever; He has established His throne for judgment. He judges the world with justice; He governs the people with equity. This psalm reinforces God's role as the righteous judge. Teaching Points The Voice of the Lord Amos 1:2 begins with, The LORD roars from Zion and raises His voice from Jerusalem. This imagery of a roaring lion emphasizes the power and authority of God's judgment. Judgment on Neighboring Nations The chapter outlines God's judgments against Damascus, Gaza, Tyre, Edom, Ammon, and Moab. Each nation is judged for specific transgressions, highlighting that God holds all nations accountable for their actions. The Repeated Phrase The phrase For three transgressions of [nation], and for four, I will not revoke the punishment (Amos 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 13) indicates the completeness and certainty of their sins, underscoring that God's patience has limits. God's Justice is Universal The judgments against these nations demonstrate that God's justice is not limited to Israel but extends to all peoples, reflecting His sovereignty over the entire world. Practical Applications Reflect on National and Personal Sins Just as God judged the nations for their transgressions, we should examine our own lives and our nation's actions, seeking repentance where necessary. Seek Justice and Righteousness As believers, we are called to uphold justice and righteousness in our communities, standing against oppression and wrongdoing. Trust in God's Sovereignty In a world where injustice often seems to prevail, we can find comfort in knowing that God is ultimately in control and will bring about justice in His perfect timing. People 1. The LORD (YHWH) The central figure in the book of Amos, the LORD is the God of Israel who speaks through the prophet Amos. The name "LORD" in the Hebrew text is "YHWH," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal and self-existent nature. 2. Amos The prophet who receives the word of the LORD. Amos is a shepherd from Tekoa, called by God to deliver messages of judgment against Israel and its neighbors. His name in Hebrew, "עָמוֹס" (Amos), means "burden" or "burden-bearer." 3. The People of Damascus Representing the nation of Aram (Syria), the people of Damascus are condemned for their transgressions, specifically for their cruelty in warfare. Damascus is the capital city of Aram. 4. Hazael The king of Aram (Syria) during the time of Amos. Hazael is mentioned in the context of the judgment pronounced against Damascus. His name in Hebrew, "חֲזָאֵל" (Chazael), means "God has seen." 5. Ben-Hadad The son of Hazael and a king of Aram. The judgment against Damascus includes the breaking of the bar of Damascus and the cutting off of the inhabitants from the Valley of Aven and the one who holds the scepter from Beth Eden, which refers to the royal line of Ben-Hadad. His name in Hebrew, "בֶּן־הֲדַד" (Ben-Hadad), means "son of Hadad," with Hadad being a storm god in Aramean and Canaanite mythology. Places 1. Damascus Damascus is the capital of Syria and is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. In Amos 1:3, the Lord pronounces judgment on Damascus for its transgressions, specifically mentioning the threshing of Gilead with iron sledges. The Hebrew root for Damascus is "דַּמֶּשֶׂק" (Dammeseq). 2. Gaza Gaza is a major city of the Philistines, located on the southwestern coast of Israel. In Amos 1:6, the Lord condemns Gaza for exiling entire communities and delivering them to Edom. The Hebrew root for Gaza is "עַזָּה" (Azzah). 3. Tyre Tyre is a prominent Phoenician city known for its trade and wealth, located on the Mediterranean coast. In Amos 1:9, the Lord accuses Tyre of breaking a covenant of brotherhood by delivering entire communities to Edom. The Hebrew root for Tyre is "צֹר" (Tzor). 4. Edom Edom is a nation descended from Esau, located to the southeast of Israel. In Amos 1:11, the Lord rebukes Edom for pursuing his brother with the sword and stifling all compassion. The Hebrew root for Edom is "אֱדוֹם" (Edom). 5. Ammon Ammon is a nation descended from Lot, located east of the Jordan River. In Amos 1:13, the Lord condemns Ammon for ripping open pregnant women in Gilead to extend their borders. The Hebrew root for Ammon is "עַמּוֹן" (Ammon). 6. Rabbah Rabbah is the capital city of the Ammonites, known today as Amman, the capital of Jordan. In Amos 1:14, the Lord declares that He will kindle a fire in the walls of Rabbah. The Hebrew root for Rabbah is "רַבָּה" (Rabbah). Events 1. Introduction and Context Amos introduces himself as a shepherd from Tekoa and sets the timeframe during the reigns of Uzziah, king of Judah, and Jeroboam, king of Israel. This introduction establishes the prophetic authority and historical context of Amos's message. ^Reference: Amos 1:1^ 2. The Lord Roars from Zion The prophecy begins with a powerful image: "The LORD roars from Zion and raises His voice from Jerusalem." This signifies God's impending judgment and the seriousness of the message. The Hebrew word for "roars" (שָׁאָג, sha'ag) conveys a sense of a lion's roar, indicating authority and power. ^Reference: Amos 1:2^ 3. Judgment on Damascus The Lord declares judgment on Damascus for its transgressions, specifically mentioning the threshing of Gilead with iron sledges. This judgment reflects God's response to the cruelty and violence perpetrated by Damascus. ^Reference: Amos 1:3-5^ 4. Judgment on Gaza Gaza is condemned for capturing entire communities and selling them to Edom. This act of human trafficking and betrayal is highlighted as a grievous sin. ^Reference: Amos 1:6-8^ 5. Judgment on Tyre Tyre faces judgment for delivering entire communities to Edom and breaking a covenant of brotherhood. The breach of trust and alliance is emphasized as a serious offense. ^Reference: Amos 1:9-10^ 6. Judgment on Edom Edom is judged for pursuing his brother with the sword and stifling compassion. The relentless anger and lack of mercy are key reasons for this judgment. ^Reference: Amos 1:11-12^ 7. Judgment on Ammon The Ammonites are condemned for ripping open pregnant women in Gilead to expand their territory. This brutal act of violence and expansionism is highlighted as a significant transgression. ^Reference: Amos 1:13-15^ Each of these events reflects the overarching theme of divine justice and the consequences of sin, as articulated by the prophet Amos. The judgments pronounced are rooted in specific historical and moral contexts, emphasizing the seriousness of violating God's standards. Lessons from Amos 1 1. The Universality of God's Justice In Amos 1, we see that God's justice is not limited to Israel alone. The Lord declares His judgments against the nations surrounding Israel, emphasizing that His standards apply to all. As it is written, "For three transgressions of Damascus, and for four, I will not revoke the punishment" (Amos 1:3). This reminds us that God's justice is universal, and His righteousness extends to every corner of the earth. We are called to live justly, knowing that God sees and judges all actions. 2. The Consequences of Sin Amos 1 vividly illustrates that sin has consequences. The repeated phrase, "For three transgressions... and for four," underscores the idea that persistent sin leads to inevitable judgment. This serves as a powerful reminder that our actions have repercussions, and we must strive to live in accordance with God's will. As believers, we are encouraged to repent and seek forgiveness, knowing that "if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us" (1 John 1:9). 3. God's Sovereignty Over Nations The book of Amos highlights God's sovereignty over all nations. He is not a distant deity but actively involved in the affairs of the world. "I will send fire upon the house of Hazael," declares the Lord (Amos 1:4), demonstrating His control over the rise and fall of kingdoms. This reassures us that no matter the chaos in the world, God remains in control, guiding history according to His divine plan. 4. The Importance of Accountability Amos 1 teaches us that everyone is accountable to God, regardless of their status or power. The judgments pronounced against the nations show that no one is exempt from God's scrutiny. "I will not revoke the punishment," the Lord says repeatedly, emphasizing the certainty of His justice (Amos 1:3). This calls us to live with integrity, knowing that we are accountable to a holy and righteous God. 5. The Call to Righteousness The judgments in Amos 1 serve as a call to righteousness. The nations are condemned for their cruelty and injustice, reminding us of the importance of living uprightly. As followers of Christ, we are called to be "the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14), reflecting God's righteousness in our actions and interactions with others. 6. The Power of Prophetic Voices Amos, a humble shepherd, was chosen by God to deliver His message to the nations. This underscores the power of prophetic voices to bring about change and call people back to God. "The Lord roars from Zion," Amos declares, showing the authority of God's word (Amos 1:2). We are reminded that God can use anyone, regardless of their background, to fulfill His purposes. 7. The Need for Repentance The judgments in Amos 1 highlight the need for repentance. The nations are condemned for their persistent sin, urging us to turn away from wrongdoing and seek God's mercy. "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is near," Jesus proclaimed (Matthew 4:17). This call to repentance is timeless, inviting us to align our lives with God's will. 8. The Reality of Divine Judgment Amos 1 presents a sobering picture of divine judgment. The vivid imagery of fire and destruction serves as a warning of the seriousness of sin. "I will send fire upon the walls of Gaza," the Lord declares (Amos 1:7). This reminds us that God's judgment is real and should not be taken lightly. It calls us to live in reverence and awe of His holiness. 9. The Hope of Redemption While Amos 1 focuses on judgment, it also points to the hope of redemption. God's justice is tempered with mercy, and His desire is for all to come to repentance. "The Lord is not slow in keeping His promise... but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish" (2 Peter 3:9). This hope encourages us to seek God's grace and share the message of salvation with others. 10. The Urgency of the Gospel Finally, Amos 1 reminds us of the urgency of the gospel message. The impending judgments highlight the need for people to hear and respond to God's call. As believers, we are commissioned to "go and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19), sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with a world in need of His saving grace. Let us be bold in proclaiming the gospel, knowing that it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes. Topics 1. Introduction and Divine Authority (Amos 1:1-2) Amos introduces himself as a shepherd from Tekoa and establishes the divine authority of his message, stating, "The LORD roars from Zion and raises His voice from Jerusalem" (Amos 1:2). The Hebrew word for "roars" (שָׁאָג, sha'ag) conveys a powerful, authoritative proclamation. 2. Judgment on Damascus (Amos 1:3-5) The LORD pronounces judgment on Damascus for their repeated transgressions, specifically mentioning their brutal treatment of Gilead. The phrase "For three transgressions of Damascus, even four" (Amos 1:3) uses a Hebrew idiom indicating the completeness of their sins. 3. Judgment on Gaza (Amos 1:6-8) Gaza is condemned for exiling entire communities and delivering them to Edom. The LORD declares, "I will send fire upon the walls of Gaza" (Amos 1:7), symbolizing total destruction. The Hebrew term for "fire" (אֵשׁ, esh) often signifies divine judgment. 4. Judgment on Tyre (Amos 1:9-10) Tyre faces judgment for breaking a covenant of brotherhood and delivering captives to Edom. The LORD's declaration, "I will send fire upon the walls of Tyre" (Amos 1:10), emphasizes the seriousness of their betrayal. 5. Judgment on Edom (Amos 1:11-12) Edom is judged for pursuing their brother with the sword and showing no compassion. The phrase "his anger raged continually" (Amos 1:11) highlights the persistent hostility, with "raged" (טָרַף, taraph) indicating a tearing or devouring anger. 6. Judgment on Ammon (Amos 1:13-15) The Ammonites are condemned for their violent expansionism, particularly their atrocities against pregnant women in Gilead. The LORD's pronouncement, "I will kindle a fire in the walls of Rabbah" (Amos 1:14), underscores the impending divine retribution. Each of these topics reflects the overarching theme of divine justice and the consequences of sin, as articulated through the prophetic voice of Amos. The use of Hebrew idioms and terms enriches the understanding of the text's original context and meaning. Themes 1. Divine Judgment on Nations Amos 1 opens with a series of pronouncements of judgment against various nations surrounding Israel. The phrase "For three transgressions... and for four" (Amos 1:3) is a Hebrew idiom indicating the fullness of their sins. This theme highlights God's sovereignty and justice over all nations, not just Israel. 2. God's Sovereignty and Authority The chapter emphasizes God's authority to judge nations for their sins. The repeated phrase "I will not revoke the punishment" (Amos 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 13) underscores the certainty and finality of God's decrees. The Hebrew root for "punishment" (פָּקַד, ^paqad^) conveys the idea of visiting or appointing, indicating God's active role in executing justice. 3. Condemnation of Violence and Cruelty Specific transgressions are highlighted, such as the "threshing Gilead with implements of iron" (Amos 1:3) by Damascus, and the "ripping open the pregnant women of Gilead" (Amos 1:13) by the Ammonites. These acts of violence and cruelty are condemned, reflecting God's abhorrence of inhumanity and injustice. 4. Retribution for Broken Covenants The theme of retribution is evident in the judgment against Tyre for "delivering up a whole community of captives to Edom, and not remembering the covenant of brotherhood" (Amos 1:9). This highlights the seriousness of breaking covenants and the expectation of faithfulness in relationships. 5. Consequences of Sin Each nation is judged for specific sins, illustrating the principle that sin has consequences. The judgments pronounced involve fire and destruction, such as "I will send fire upon the house of Hazael" (Amos 1:4), symbolizing purification and divine wrath. The Hebrew word for fire (אֵשׁ, ^esh^) often represents God's judgment. Prayer Points Pray for Repentance Ask God to reveal areas in our lives and our nation where we need to repent and turn back to Him. Pray for Justice Seek God's guidance in promoting justice and righteousness in our communities and the world. Pray for Trust in God's Plan Request strength and faith to trust in God's sovereignty and His ultimate plan for justice and redemption. As we study Amos 1, let us be reminded of the seriousness of sin and the certainty of God's justice, while also being encouraged to live lives that reflect His righteousness and mercy. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Amos 1:1) What verifiable evidence supports the massive earthquake Amos mentions, or is it purely a literary device? 2. (Amos 1:3) Are there historical records confirming any “threshing” of Gilead by Damascus in the manner Amos describes? 3. (Amos 1:6–7) Does any archaeological data confirm Gaza’s destruction as foretold, or does the lack of evidence question the prophecy’s reliability? 4. (Amos 1:9–10) Where is the external proof that Tyre was punished for breaking its covenant of brotherhood, or is this a theological claim without historical backing? 5. (Amos 1:11–12) Do the details of Edom’s judgment align with known historical events, or does any inconsistency suggest anachronism or error? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Reflect on the significance of Amos' occupation as a shepherd. How might this have influenced his prophetic ministry? 2. What can we learn from God's judgment on Damascus for their brutality? How does this apply to our world today? 3. Consider the prophecy against Gaza for slave trading. How does this ancient condemnation of human trafficking apply to the modern world's fight against this issue? 4. Tyre broke a covenant and received judgment. How does this resonate with the importance of maintaining trust and agreements in our relationships? 5. What lessons can we draw from God's punishment on Edom for holding a grudge against its kin, Israel? 6. Reflect on the prophecy against Ammon for its cruelty in wartime. How can we apply this to modern concepts of ethics in warfare? 7. In what ways do the prophecies of Amos 1 challenge your perception of God's character? 8. How does Amos 1 illustrate the seriousness of social injustice in God's eyes? 9. How can we apply the message of God's impartial judgment to our lives today? 10. What implications does Amos 1 have for nations and their leaders today? 11. How does Amos 1 illustrate the consequences of long-term, unrepented sin? 12. How can the prophecies of Amos 1 help us to understand the relationship between sin, repentance, and divine justice? 13. How does the theme of God's sovereignty emerge in Amos 1? 14. Amos was not a professional prophet, yet God used him powerfully. What does this teach us about God's calling in our lives? 15. How can we personally respond to the issues of injustice highlighted in Amos 1? 16. How can the prophecies against these cities in Amos 1 encourage us to advocate for justice in our own communities? 17. God used a shepherd/farmer to deliver a strong message. How does this challenge societal expectations of who can be used by God? 18. What steps can we take to ensure that we are not perpetuating the sins of these nations in our own lives? 19. What would you have done if you were in Amos' position, given the task to prophesy against these nations? 20. How does the chapter inspire you to promote justice and love in your everyday life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions