◄ Amos 6 ►
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Woe to Those at Ease in Zion (Luke 6:24–26) 1Woe to those at ease in Zion and those secure on Mount Samaria, the distinguished ones of the foremost nation, to whom the house of Israel comes. 2Cross over to Calneh and see; go from there to the great Hamath; then go down to Gath of the Philistines. Are you better than these kingdoms? Is their territory larger than yours? 3You dismiss the day of calamity and bring near a reign of violence. 4You lie on beds inlaid with ivory, and lounge upon your couches. You dine on lambs from the flock and calves from the stall. 5You improvise songs on the harp like David and invent your own musical instruments. 6You drink wine by the bowlful and anoint yourselves with the finest oils, but you fail to grieve over the ruin of Joseph. 7Therefore, you will now go into exile as the first of the captives, and your feasting and lounging will come to an end. The Pride of Israel 8The Lord GOD has sworn by Himself—the LORD, the God of Hosts, has declared: “I abhor Jacob’s pride and detest his citadels, so I will deliver up the city and everything in it.” 9And if there are ten men left in one house, they too will die. 10And when the relative who is to burn the bodiesa picks them up to remove them from the house, he will call to one inside, “Is anyone else with you?” “None,” that person will answer. “Silence,” the relative will retort, “for the name of the LORD must not be invoked.” 11For the LORD gives a command: “The great house will be smashed to pieces, and the small house to rubble.” 12“Do horses gallop on the cliffs? Does one plow the seab with oxen? But you have turned justice into poison and the fruit of righteousness into wormwood— 13you who rejoice in Lo-debarc and say, ‘Did we not take Karnaimd by our own strength?’ 14For behold, I will raise up a nation against you, O house of Israel,” declares the LORD, the God of Hosts, “and they will oppress you from Lebo-hamath to the Brook of the Arabah.” Footnotes: 10 a Or to make a funeral fire to honor the dead 12 b Literally Does one plow (there) 13 c Lo-debar means nothing. 13 d Karnaim means horn, a symbol of strength. 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 6 Summary Woe to Those at Ease in Zion Verses 1–3 – Complacency and False Security Amos opens with a sharp “Woe” aimed at leaders in both Zion (Judah) and Samaria (Israel). They imagine themselves untouchable, yet the prophet points to three fallen cities—Calneh, Hamath, and Gath—to show how quickly greatness can crumble. By shrugging off “the day of calamity,” they actually speed it up. Verses 4–7 – Indulgent Lifestyle Before Exile The ruling class lounges on ivory-inlaid beds, gorges on prime meat, strums new songs, guzzles wine from large bowls, and splashes on costly oils. While the nation decays, they “do not grieve over the ruin of Joseph.” Because of that blindness, they will be the first dragged into exile and their revelry will end. Verses 8–11 – The LORD’s Oath Against Pride The Lord GOD swears by Himself: “I abhor the pride of Jacob.” City and citadel alike will fall. Death will be so widespread that a relative removing bodies will whisper, “Silence… for the name of the LORD must not be invoked.” Both great and small houses will be smashed. Verses 12–14 – Perverted Justice and Approaching Judgment Amos fires off riddles: horses do not gallop on cliffs, nor do oxen plow there—yet Israel has made justice “poison” and righteousness “wormwood.” They brag about capturing Lo-debar and Karnaim, but God will raise a nation (Assyria) to crush them from Lebo-hamath in the north to the Brook of the Arabah in the south. Amos 6 is a powerful chapter in the Old Testament that speaks directly to those who are complacent in their comfort, wealth, and security, ignoring the distress of their fellow people and disregarding God's warnings. It is a prophetic lamentation, exposing the pride and self-indulgence of the Israelites and prophesying their downfall and exile. Historical Setting • Date: c. 760–750 BC, during Jeroboam II’s prosperous reign (2 Kings 14:23-29). • International scene: Assyria is regaining strength after a lull; neighboring kingdoms such as Calneh (northern Syria), Hamath (central Syria), and Gath (Philistia) have recently fallen or weakened—real-time news flashing a warning sign Israel ignores. • Social climate: Economic boom created a leisure class that widened the gap between rich and poor (Amos 2:6-7). Comfort dulled moral vision. Archaeological Insights • Samaria’s Palace Hill excavations unearthed ivory plaques—exactly the luxury Amos targets (v. 4). • At Gath (Tell es-Saf i), layers show an 8th-century destruction that parallels Amos’ “look at Gath—are you better?” (v. 2). • Storage jar stamps from the period show royal control over grain and oil, hinting at systemic exploitation behind the nobles’ feast. Key Themes and Cross-References 1. False Security – Isaiah 32:9-11 warns “complacent women” with language similar to Amos’ “at ease.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:3 echoes the suddenness: “While people are saying, ‘Peace and security,’ then destruction comes.” 2. Luxury vs. Responsibility – Luke 16:19-25 (rich man and Lazarus) mirrors the ivory-bed crowd ignoring the suffering at their gate. – Proverbs 21:13: “Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor will himself cry out and not be answered.” 3. Perverted Justice – Amos 5:7 already used the wormwood image; here it intensifies. – Micah 3:1-3, Isaiah 5:20, and James 5:1-6 reinforce the pattern of elites twisting right and wrong. 4. Divine Oath and Certainty – Hebrews 6:13 notes God swearing by Himself when promising blessing; in Amos He swears the same way when promising judgment, showing equal certainty. Geography of Judgment “From Lebo-hamath to the Brook of the Arabah” (v. 14) spans Israel’s northern and southern borders—a total wipe. Comparable phrasing in 2 Kings 14:25 marked the peak of Jeroboam II’s expansion; Amos uses it to announce total contraction. Language and Imagery • “Bowls” (v. 6) are large mixing bowls (Hebrew šêmarîm) suggesting binge drinking—different from ordinary cups. • “Beds of ivory” (v. 4) symbolize status; ivory imported via Phoenician trade links (cf. 1 Kings 10:22). • The riddles (v. 12) use absurd images to jolt listeners: horses on cliffs would break legs; plowing rocks is pointless—just like Israel’s upside-down justice. New Testament Echoes • The arrogant claim “Did we not take Karnaim by our own strength?” (v. 13) contrasts with Paul’s “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:31). • Amos’ picture of coming exile foreshadows Jesus’ warnings of national catastrophe (Luke 21:20-24). Practical Takeaways • Prosperity is a test; it can insulate the heart unless actively turned into generosity (1 Timothy 6:17-19). • National pride without dependence on God invites discipline. • Grieving over “the ruin of Joseph” (v. 6) means feeling the pain of fellow believers and neighbors rather than retreating into comfort. • God keeps score on justice; when it turns to “poison,” He intervenes. Outline for Teaching or Personal Study 1. Complacency (vv. 1-3) – Why warnings often come during good times. 2. Luxury (vv. 4-6) – Signs that comfort has become idolatry. 3. Consequence (vv. 7-11) – The certainty of God’s sworn word. 4. Corruption (vv. 12-14) – How twisted justice accelerates national decline. Closing Thought Amos 6 reads like a mirror held up to any culture enjoying wealth while forgetting compassion and humility. The Lord who once swore judgment by His own name still calls people to wake up before comfort turns into captivity. Connections to Additional Scriptures Revelation 3:15-17 The church in Laodicea is rebuked for being lukewarm, similar to the complacency seen in Amos 6. Proverbs 1:32 For the waywardness of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them. 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? Teaching Points Complacency and False Security Amos 6:1 warns, Woe to those at ease in Zion and to those secure on Mount Samaria. The Israelites were lulled into a false sense of security due to their prosperity and military strength, forgetting their dependence on God. Indulgence and Neglect of Justice Verses 4-6 describe the luxurious lifestyles of the Israelites, who lie on beds of ivory and drink wine by the bowlful, yet they do not grieve over the ruin of Joseph. Their indulgence blinded them to the injustices and suffering around them. The Certainty of Judgment In verse 7, Amos declares, Therefore, they will now go into exile as the first of the captives. The Israelites' complacency and neglect of God's commands would lead to inevitable judgment and exile. God's Sovereignty and Justice Verses 8-14 emphasize God's sovereignty and His commitment to justice. Despite the Israelites' pride and self-reliance, God would not overlook their sins. Practical Applications Examine Your Heart Regularly assess your spiritual life to ensure you are not becoming complacent or relying on worldly security. Prioritize Justice and Compassion Actively seek to address injustices and show compassion to those in need, reflecting God's heart for justice. Stay Humble and Dependent on God Recognize that all blessings come from God, and maintain a posture of humility and dependence on Him. Prepare for Accountability Live with the awareness that we will all stand before God and give an account of our lives. People 1. Those at Ease in Zion This refers to the complacent and self-satisfied individuals living in Jerusalem (Zion). The Hebrew root for "ease" (שָׁאַנַן, sha'anan) implies a sense of careless security and overconfidence. 2. Those Secure on Mount Samaria These are the people living in the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, who feel secure in their stronghold. The Hebrew word for "secure" (בָּטַח, batach) suggests a false sense of safety. 3. Notable Men of the First of the Nations This phrase likely refers to the leaders or influential figures in Israel, who are seen as prominent among the nations. The Hebrew term for "notable" (נָקוּב, naqob) indicates being marked or distinguished. 4. House of Israel This is a collective term for the people of Israel, particularly those in the Northern Kingdom. The Hebrew root for "house" (בַּיִת, bayit) signifies a family or household, representing the nation as a whole. 5. Those Who Lie on Beds of Ivory This describes the wealthy and indulgent individuals who live in luxury. The imagery of "ivory" (שֵׁן, shen) beds highlights their opulence and excess. 6. Those Who Stretch Out on Their Couches Similar to the previous group, these are people who indulge in comfort and leisure, neglecting their responsibilities. 7. Those Who Sing Idly to the Sound of the Harp This refers to individuals who engage in frivolous entertainment and music, ignoring the pressing issues around them. 8. Those Who Drink Wine by the Bowlful This group is characterized by excessive drinking and indulgence, highlighting their lack of moderation and self-control. 9. Those Who Anoint Themselves with the Finest Oils These are people who pamper themselves with luxury, using the best oils for personal grooming, indicating their focus on self-indulgence. 10. Joseph While not a person in the context of Amos 6, "Joseph" is used metaphorically to refer to the Northern Kingdom of Israel, as Joseph's descendants (Ephraim and Manasseh) were prominent tribes in that region. Places 1. Zion Zion refers to Jerusalem, the spiritual and political center of Israel. In Amos 6:1, it is mentioned as a place where those who are complacent reside. The Hebrew root "צִיּוֹן" (Tziyon) signifies a place of significance and divine presence. 2. Samaria Samaria is the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. In Amos 6:1, it is described as a place where those who feel secure live. The Hebrew root "שֹׁמְרוֹן" (Shomron) indicates a place of watchfulness, though here it is ironically a place of false security. 3. Calneh Calneh is an ancient city, possibly located in Mesopotamia. In Amos 6:2, it is mentioned as a place to which the Israelites are encouraged to go and see the destruction, serving as a warning. The Hebrew root "כַּלְנֵה" (Kalneh) suggests a place of fortification or strength. 4. Hamath Hamath is a city in Syria, known for its historical significance. In Amos 6:2, it is referred to as "Hamath the Great," indicating its prominence. The Hebrew root "חֲמָת" (Chamat) implies a place of defense or protection. 5. Gath Gath is one of the five Philistine cities. In Amos 6:2, it is mentioned as a place to compare with Israel, highlighting the impending judgment. The Hebrew root "גַּת" (Gat) means a winepress, symbolizing a place of pressing or judgment. Events 1. Woe to the Complacent in Zion Amos begins with a pronouncement of woe to those who are complacent in Zion and Samaria. The Hebrew word for "woe" (הוֹי, hoy) is often used to express lament or impending doom. This sets the tone for the chapter, highlighting the spiritual and moral complacency of the people. ^"Woe to those at ease in Zion and to those secure on Mount Samaria, the distinguished ones of the foremost nation, to whom the house of Israel comes."^ (Amos 6:1) 2. False Security and Pride The people of Israel are criticized for their false sense of security and pride in their status. They believe they are untouchable, yet Amos warns them of their impending downfall. ^"Go to Calneh and see; go from there to great Hamath; then go down to Gath of the Philistines. Are you better than these kingdoms? Is their territory greater than yours?"^ (Amos 6:2) 3. Indulgence and Luxury The Israelites are described as living in indulgence and luxury, oblivious to the moral decay around them. The Hebrew word for "beds of ivory" (מִטּוֹת שֵׁן, mittot shen) emphasizes their opulence. ^"You lie on beds inlaid with ivory and lounge on your couches. You dine on choice lambs and fattened calves."^ (Amos 6:4) 4. Neglect of Spiritual Matters Despite their wealth, the people neglect spiritual matters and the impending judgment. The phrase "not grieved over the ruin of Joseph" (לֹא נֶחְלָה עַל־שֵׁבֶר יוֹסֵף, lo nechlah al-shever Yosef) indicates their lack of concern for the spiritual state of Israel. ^"You strum on your harps like David and improvise on musical instruments. You drink wine by the bowlful and anoint yourselves with the finest oils, but you fail to grieve over the ruin of Joseph."^ (Amos 6:5-6) 5. The Coming Exile Amos prophesies that those who indulge in luxury will be the first to go into exile. This is a direct consequence of their complacency and neglect of God's commands. ^"Therefore, you will be the first to go into exile, and your feasting will end."^ (Amos 6:7) 6. God's Abhorrence of Pride The Lord swears by Himself, emphasizing His abhorrence of Jacob's pride and the palaces they trust in. The Hebrew word for "abhor" (תָּעַב, ta'av) conveys a strong sense of detestation. ^"The Lord GOD has sworn by Himself—the LORD, the God of Hosts, declares: 'I abhor the pride of Jacob and detest his citadels, so I will deliver up the city and everything in it.'"^ (Amos 6:8) 7. Complete Destruction A vivid picture of destruction is painted, where even if ten people are left in one house, they will die. This signifies the totality of the coming judgment. ^"And if there are ten men left in one house, they too will die."^ (Amos 6:9) 8. Fear of the Lord's Name The fear of speaking the Lord's name during this time of judgment is highlighted, showing the seriousness of the situation. ^"And when the relative who is to burn the bodies picks them up to carry them out of the house, he will call to one inside, 'Is anyone else with you?' 'None,' that person will answer. 'Silence,' the relative will reply, 'for the name of the LORD must not be invoked.'"^ (Amos 6:10) 9. Inevitability of Judgment Amos uses rhetorical questions to illustrate the inevitability and righteousness of God's judgment. The imagery of plowing the sea with oxen underscores the futility of Israel's actions. ^"Do horses run on the rocky crags? Does one plow there with oxen? Yet you have turned justice into poison and the fruit of righteousness into wormwood."^ (Amos 6:12) 10. The Futility of Human Strength The chapter concludes with a reminder of the futility of relying on human strength and achievements, as God will raise up a nation against Israel. ^"For behold, I will raise up a nation against you, O house of Israel, declares the LORD, the God of Hosts, and they will oppress you from Lebo-hamath to the Brook of the Arabah."^ (Amos 6:14) Lessons from Amos 6 1. Complacency Breeds Destruction In Amos 6, we see a stark warning against complacency. The Israelites were at ease in Zion, feeling secure in their prosperity and power. Yet, Amos warns, "Woe to you who are complacent in Zion" (Amos 6:1). This serves as a reminder that comfort can lead to spiritual stagnation. We must remain vigilant in our faith, always seeking to grow and serve, lest we fall into the trap of complacency. 2. False Security in Wealth The Israelites trusted in their wealth and military might, believing these would protect them. However, Amos reminds us that true security comes from God alone. "You lie on beds inlaid with ivory and lounge on your couches" (Amos 6:4). Wealth can be fleeting, but the steadfast love of the Lord endures forever. Let us place our trust in Him, not in material possessions. 3. The Danger of Ignoring Injustice Amos highlights the Israelites' indifference to the suffering around them. "You drink wine by the bowlful and use the finest lotions, but you do not grieve over the ruin of Joseph" (Amos 6:6). As followers of Christ, we are called to act justly and love mercy. Ignoring injustice is contrary to the heart of God, who calls us to be His hands and feet in a broken world. 4. Pride Comes Before a Fall Pride was a significant issue for the Israelites, as they boasted in their achievements. Amos warns, "The Lord GOD has sworn by Himself—the LORD God Almighty declares: 'I abhor the pride of Jacob'" (Amos 6:8). Pride blinds us to our need for God and can lead to our downfall. Humility, on the other hand, opens the door to God's grace and guidance. 5. The Certainty of God's Judgment Amos does not mince words about the certainty of God's judgment on those who turn away from Him. "I will deliver up the city and everything in it" (Amos 6:8). This serves as a sobering reminder that God is just and His judgment is sure. Yet, in His mercy, He offers us a way of escape through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ. 6. The Call to Repentance Amos's message is not just one of judgment but also of hope. The call to repentance is implicit throughout the book. God desires that none should perish but that all should come to repentance. As it says in 2 Peter 3:9, "The Lord is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." Let us heed this call and turn our hearts back to God. 7. The Futility of Human Efforts Without God The Israelites relied on their own strength and strategies, but Amos reminds us that without God, our efforts are in vain. "Do horses run on rocky crags? Does one plow there with oxen?" (Amos 6:12). Our plans and efforts must be aligned with God's will, for it is He who gives success and purpose to our endeavors. 8. The Importance of Genuine Worship Amos criticizes the Israelites for their empty rituals and lack of true worship. God desires worship that is sincere and from the heart. "I hate, I despise your feasts; I cannot stand the stench of your solemn assemblies" (Amos 5:21). True worship involves a heart fully surrendered to God, seeking to honor Him in spirit and truth. 9. The Role of Prophets in God's Plan Amos, as a prophet, played a crucial role in delivering God's message to His people. Prophets are God's messengers, calling His people back to righteousness. Today, we have the Word of God as our guide, and we are called to be His ambassadors, sharing His truth and love with the world. 10. Hope in God's Redemption Despite the dire warnings, Amos's message ultimately points to the hope of redemption. God's desire is to restore and redeem His people. Through Jesus Christ, we have the promise of eternal life and the assurance that God is working all things for our good. Let us hold fast to this hope and live in the light of His redemption. Topics 1. Complacency of Zion and Samaria Amos 6:1 begins with a warning to those who are "at ease in Zion" and "secure on Mount Samaria." The Hebrew word for "at ease" (שַׁאֲנַן, sha'anan) implies a false sense of security and complacency. This verse highlights the spiritual indifference and self-satisfaction of the leaders in these regions. 2. False Security and Pride Verses 2-3 describe the false security and pride of the Israelites, who believe they are invincible. The text challenges them to consider the fate of other nations, suggesting that their perceived superiority is unfounded. The Hebrew root for "put off" (נָדָה, nadah) in verse 3 indicates a deliberate avoidance of impending disaster. 3. Indulgence and Luxury In verses 4-6, the prophet condemns the indulgence and luxury of the wealthy, who lie on beds of ivory and dine on choice lambs. The Hebrew word for "beds" (מִטּוֹת, mittot) suggests opulence, while their actions reflect a disregard for the suffering of others, as they "do not grieve over the ruin of Joseph." 4. Judgment and Exile Verse 7 warns of impending judgment, stating that those who indulge in luxury will be the first to go into exile. The Hebrew term for "exile" (גָּלוּת, galut) signifies a forced removal from their land, emphasizing the severity of God's judgment on their complacency and excess. 5. The Lord's Oath and Abhorrence In verse 8, the Lord swears by Himself, declaring His abhorrence of Jacob's pride and the palaces. The Hebrew word for "abhorrence" (תָּעַב, ta'ab) conveys a strong sense of detestation, underscoring God's rejection of their arrogance and self-reliance. 6. Complete Destruction Verses 9-10 describe the total destruction that will come upon the people, with even the remnants being wiped out. The Hebrew root for "remnant" (שְׁאֵרִית, she'erit) indicates that no one will be spared, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the judgment. 7. Futility of Human Efforts Verse 12 uses rhetorical questions to illustrate the futility of human efforts against God's judgment, comparing it to horses running on rocks or plowing the sea with oxen. The imagery emphasizes the absurdity and ineffectiveness of their attempts to resist divine will. 8. Distortion of Justice In verse 12, the prophet accuses the people of turning "justice into poison" and "the fruit of righteousness into wormwood." The Hebrew word for "wormwood" (לַעֲנָה, la'anah) symbolizes bitterness and corruption, reflecting the perversion of justice and righteousness in society. 9. Boasting and Self-Deception Verse 13 highlights the people's boasting in their own strength and achievements, which is ultimately self-deceptive. The Hebrew term for "boasting" (שָׂמַח, samach) suggests a misplaced confidence in their own abilities rather than reliance on God. 10. Inevitable Defeat The chapter concludes in verses 14 with a prophecy of inevitable defeat at the hands of a foreign nation. The Hebrew word for "nation" (גּוֹי, goy) indicates a non-Israelite power, signifying that God's judgment will come through external forces as a consequence of their disobedience. Themes 1. Complacency and False Security Amos 6:1 warns, "Woe to those at ease in Zion and to those secure on Mount Samaria." The Hebrew word for "at ease" (שַׁאֲנַן, sha'anan) implies a false sense of security and complacency. This theme highlights the danger of feeling secure in worldly comforts while neglecting spiritual vigilance. 2. Judgment on Pride and Luxury Verses 4-6 describe those who "lie on beds of ivory" and "drink wine by the bowlful." The Hebrew word for "ivory" (שֵׁן, shen) symbolizes opulence. This theme underscores God's judgment on those who indulge in luxury and pride, ignoring the plight of the needy. 3. Indifference to the Plight of Others Amos 6:6 states, "They do not grieve over the ruin of Joseph." The Hebrew root for "grieve" (חָלָה, chalah) suggests a lack of empathy or concern. This theme emphasizes the moral failure of ignoring the suffering and ruin of others, particularly within one's own community. 4. Inevitability of Divine Judgment In verse 7, it is declared, "Therefore, they will now go into exile as the first of the captives." The theme here is the certainty of divine judgment as a consequence of sin and disobedience. The Hebrew word for "exile" (גָּלוּת, galut) signifies a forced removal, highlighting the seriousness of God's impending judgment. 5. Rejection of Human Strength and Achievements Amos 6:13 questions, "Do you rejoice in Lo-debar?" The name "Lo-debar" means "nothing" in Hebrew, symbolizing the futility of human achievements without God. This theme critiques reliance on human strength and accomplishments, which are ultimately meaningless without divine approval. 6. God's Sovereignty and Power Verse 14 concludes with God's declaration, "I will raise up a nation against you." This theme affirms God's sovereignty and power to enact judgment and fulfill His purposes. The Hebrew root for "raise up" (קוּם, qum) indicates God's active role in orchestrating events according to His will. Prayer Points Repentance for Complacency Pray for a heart of repentance if you have become complacent in your faith or neglected God's commands. Desire for Justice and Compassion Ask God to give you a heart that seeks justice and shows compassion to those in need. Humility and Dependence Pray for a spirit of humility and a deeper dependence on God in all areas of life. Awareness of God's Sovereignty Seek a greater understanding and reverence for God's sovereignty and justice in your life. Answering Tough Questions 1. Is there historical or archaeological evidence confirming Amos’s warnings to complacent leaders in Zion and Samaria (Amos 6:1)? 2. Does the mention of Calneh, Hamath, and Gath in Amos 6:2 conflict with known historical records of these cities? 3. If God is omnipotent, why does He need to swear by Himself to carry out judgment (Amos 6:8)? 4. In Amos 6:12, is plowing the sea a literal impossibility or a misunderstood metaphor that undermines the text’s credibility? 5. Did an oppressor “from Hamath to the valley of the Arabah” (Amos 6:14) truly arise, and is there historical proof of this event? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Amos 6 illustrate the danger of complacency and materialistic living? 2. How can we, in our modern lives, become complacent like those in Zion and Samaria? 3. What are some examples of modern 'beds of ivory' and 'bowls of wine' we should beware of? 4. What does it mean to "grieve over the ruin of Joseph"? How does this apply to our attitude toward social injustices today? 5. How does God respond to the complacency and self-indulgence of the people of Israel in Amos 6? 6. In verses 1-3, what are the cities mentioned and why do you think they were referenced? 7. In what ways does our society reflect the conditions that Amos 6 warned against? 8. How can we combat complacency in our personal spiritual life and within our communities? 9. What lessons can we learn from the downfall of the people described in Amos 6? 10. How do the warnings in Amos 6 relate to the New Testament teachings of Jesus? 11. How can we use the messages in Amos 6 to evaluate our own lifestyle and choices? 12. Amos 6 focuses on social injustice. What are some ways we can take action against social injustices today? 13. How does God's judgment in Amos 6 show His character and expectations for His people? 14. How can we keep ourselves from becoming complacent or self-indulgent in our spiritual lives? 15. How can we apply the lessons from Amos 6 to our own societies, especially concerning wealth and comfort? 16. In what ways can we show grief over the “ruin of Joseph” in our present day? 17. How can we make sure that our comfort doesn't blind us to the needs of those around us? 18. In what ways might we be contributing to societal complacency and what changes can we make? 19. How can we avoid the judgments that came upon Israel due to their ignorance of God's warnings? 20. What steps can we take to ensure that we're not only focusing on our own comfort but are also caring for others in our community? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions