◄ Amos 3 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Witnesses against Israel 1Hear this word that the LORD has spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family that I brought up out of the land of Egypt: 2“Only you have I knowna from all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.” 3Can two walk together without agreeing where to go?b 4Does a lion roar in the forest when he has no prey? Does a young lion growl in his den if he has caught nothing? 5Does a bird land in a snare where no bait has been set? Does a trap spring from the ground when it has nothing to catch? 6If a ram’s horn sounds in a city, do the people not tremble? If calamity comes to a city, has not the LORD caused it? 7Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets. 8The lion has roared— who will not fear? The Lord GOD has spoken— who will not prophesy? 9Proclaim to the citadels of Ashdod and to the citadels of Egypt: “Assemble on the mountains of Samaria; see the great unrest in the city and the acts of oppression in her midst.” 10“For they know not how to do right,” declares the LORD. “They store up violence and destruction in their citadels.” 11Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: “An enemyc will surround the land; he will pull down your strongholds and plunder your citadels.” 12This is what the LORD says: “As the shepherd snatches from the mouth of the lion two legs or a piece of an ear, so the Israelites dwelling in Samaria will be rescued having just the corner of a bed or the cushion of a couch.d 13Hear and testify against the house of Jacob, declares the Lord GOD, the God of Hosts. 14On the day I punish Israel for their transgressions, I will visit destruction on the altars of Bethel; the horns of the altar will be cut off, and they will fall to the ground. 15I will tear down the winter house along with the summer house; the houses of ivory will also perish, and the great houses will come to an end,” declares the LORD. Footnotes: 2 a Or chosen 3 b Or without an appointment to meet 11 c Or An adversary 12 d Or so will the Israelites be snatched away, those who sit in Samaria on the edge of their beds and in Damascus on their couches 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 3 Summary Witnesses against Israel Verses 1–2 – Chosen but Accountable The LORD reminds Israel that He brought the whole family out of Egypt and chose them alone among all nations. Because of this unique privilege, their sins will be judged more strictly. Verses 3–6 – Inevitable Cause and Effect Seven rapid-fire questions show that effects always follow causes: agreement precedes walking together, prey sparks the lion’s roar, bait triggers the snare, and so on. In the same way, Israel’s coming calamity is the direct result of their wrongdoing and of God’s righteous action. Verses 7–8 – Revealed Certainty The LORD never acts without first unveiling His plan to His prophets. Just as a lion’s roar demands fear, God’s spoken word compels Amos to prophesy. Verses 9–12 – Witness and Warning to Samaria Foreign powers (Ashdod and Egypt) are summoned to watch Israel’s violence and oppression. An enemy will soon surround the land. Only the tiniest remnant—like scraps saved from a lion—will survive the devastation. Verses 13–15 – Judgment on Religious Show and Luxury God Himself testifies against Jacob. He will strike the altars of Bethel, shattering their horns, and will level Israel’s opulent winter and summer houses, ivory-inlaid dwellings, and great mansions. Amos 3 is a deeply compelling chapter within the Bible's minor prophetic books. It serves as a divine call to accountability for the nation of Israel, reminding them of their unique relationship with God and the accompanying responsibilities. The chapter also highlights the role of prophets and the consequences of disobedience. Historical Setting • Amos prophesied during the long, prosperous reign of Jeroboam II (2 Kings 14:23-27) and Uzziah of Judah (Amos 1:1). Israel’s economy boomed, but justice cratered. • Samaria, the capital, gleamed with “ivory houses” (1 Kings 22:39), symbolizing wealth gained through unfair taxation and exploitation (Amos 5:11, 8:4-6). • Bethel, once a place where God met Jacob (Genesis 28:10-19), now housed a golden-calf shrine rivaling Jerusalem’s temple (1 Kings 12:28-29). Amos’ words about cutting off the altar horns point directly at this counterfeit worship center. Flow of Amos 3 1. Verses 1-2: Covenant memory—Exodus deliverance; covenant responsibility—discipline. 2. Verses 3-6: A string of common-sense pictures linking sin and disaster. 3. Verses 7-8: Validation of Amos’ message—God reveals, the prophet speaks. 4. Verses 9-12: Courtroom scene—pagan nations serve as witnesses while God announces siege and loss. 5. Verses 13-15: Sentence pronounced—religious symbols and social luxuries fall together. Privilege Demands Responsibility • “You alone have I chosen” (v. 2) echoes Exodus 19:5-6 and Deuteronomy 7:6. Israel was set apart to model God’s ways (Isaiah 42:6), not to indulge self-interest. • Luke 12:48 applies the same truth: “From everyone who has been given much, much will be required.” • For believers today, 1 Peter 2:9 parallels Amos’ charge—being a “chosen people” carries the duty to declare God’s praises, not to live for comfort. Prophet as Divine Messenger • Verse 7: God discloses His plans; He is not capricious. Similar pattern in Genesis 18:17-19 (God tells Abraham about Sodom) and John 15:15 (Jesus tells His friends). • Verse 8: The prophet feels an inner “must” (Jeremiah 20:9; Acts 4:20). Courage to speak comes from hearing the “lion’s roar” of God’s voice. Rhetorical Questions—A Teaching Tool Amos’ seven questions move from everyday life to spiritual reality: 1. Walk together—agreement. 2. Lion roars—prey. 3. Young lion growls—capture. 4. Bird falls—snare bait. 5. Trap springs—catch. 6. Trumpet sounds—alarm. 7. Disaster strikes—God’s hand. The pattern helps listeners admit the obvious: sin has consequences, and God directs history. Archaeological Notes • Samaria’s palace excavations (Omri-Ahab era) yielded over 500 carved ivories—panthers, lotus flowers, and Egyptian motifs—matching Amos 3:15’s “houses adorned with ivory.” • At Bethel, layers show continual worship activity from the divided-kingdom era, including altar stones and animal bones—physical reminders of the “horns of the altar” (v. 14) that God promised to topple. • The shepherd image (v. 12) mirrors Near-Eastern practice: a shepherd produced remnants of a killed sheep (ear, leg) to prove he had battled the predator (Exodus 22:10-13). Amos twists the picture—those scraps represent the few survivors after Assyria’s onslaught (fulfilled 722 BC). Cross-Scripture Connections • Amos 3:2 ↔ Hebrews 12:6: loving discipline proves sonship. • Amos 3:6 ↔ Isaiah 45:7: God is sovereign over calamity as well as blessing. • Amos 3:11 ↔ Hosea 8:3, Isaiah 10:5-6: Assyria described as God’s rod of judgment. • Amos 3:14 ↔ 2 Kings 23:15: Josiah later desecrated Bethel’s altar, partly fulfilling Amos’ prophecy. • Amos 3:15 ↔ Micah 6:14-15: luxury will vanish; toil without enjoyment. Life Lessons and Instruction • Enjoyed prosperity is not proof of divine approval; righteousness matters more than revenues. • Relationship with God is no insurance policy against consequence—unrepentant sin guarantees loving but painful discipline. • God wants honesty and justice in both public squares and private homes; He notices “violence and destruction in citadels” (v. 10) and also the décor of ivory sofas (v. 12). • Speaking God’s truth may invite pushback, yet silence is impossible when the Lord has spoken (v. 8). • Opulent religion that masks disobedience—altars plus injustice—is scheduled for demolition. Practical Application for Believers Today 1. Check motives: spiritual privileges (church heritage, knowledge of Scripture) are gifts to serve others, not shields for self-indulgence. 2. Seek integrity: align daily behavior with confessed faith; God’s fairness means accountability starts with His own people (1 Peter 4:17). 3. Listen when God exposes sin through Scripture or faithful voices—He warns before He acts. 4. Embrace prophetic courage: share God’s heart with humility and resolve, knowing that His roar backs His messengers. 5. Hold wealth loosely: invest in justice and mercy (Micah 6:8) rather than in winter mansions destined to crumble. Summary Thought Amos 3 sounds a wake-up trumpet for any people showered with God’s favor yet drifting from His ways. Privilege plus rebellion equals certain correction. The cure is not more religion or luxury but humble return to the LORD who speaks, warns, and longs to restore. Connections to Additional Scriptures Deuteronomy 7:6 For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you to be a people for His prized possession, above all peoples on the face of the earth. This verse parallels the theme of divine election and responsibility. Hebrews 12:6 For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives. This New Testament passage echoes the concept of divine discipline found in Amos 3. 1 Peter 2:9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God’s own possession, to proclaim the virtues of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. This verse connects the idea of being chosen with the call to proclaim God's virtues. Teaching Points Divine Election and Responsibility Amos 3:2 states, You alone have I known from all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities. This verse highlights the special relationship between God and Israel, emphasizing that with privilege comes responsibility. The Certainty of God's Judgment Amos 3:6 asks, If a trumpet sounds in a city, will the people not tremble? If calamity comes to a city, has not the LORD caused it? This rhetorical question underscores the certainty and divine origin of judgment, urging the people to recognize God's hand in their circumstances. The Role of Prophets Amos 3:7 declares, Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets. This verse affirms the importance of prophetic revelation and the responsibility of God's messengers to communicate His will. The Inevitability of Consequences Amos 3:3 poses the question, Can two walk together without agreeing where to go? This metaphor illustrates the necessity of alignment with God's will to avoid the consequences of disobedience. Practical Applications Reflect on Your Calling Consider how being chosen by God impacts your life and the responsibilities it entails. Are you living in a way that honors this calling? Heed the Warnings Just as Israel was warned through the prophets, be attentive to the ways God may be speaking to you today, whether through Scripture, prayer, or godly counsel. Align with God's Will Evaluate areas of your life where you may be out of step with God's direction. Seek to align your actions and decisions with His purposes. Embrace Accountability Recognize that with privilege comes accountability. Be willing to accept correction and make necessary changes to live righteously. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in Amos 3, Yahweh is the God of Israel who speaks through the prophet Amos. He is depicted as the sovereign deity who has chosen Israel and is now pronouncing judgment upon them for their iniquities. The Hebrew name used is יהוה (YHWH), which is often rendered as "LORD" in English translations. 2. The People of Israel Referred to as the collective group to whom the message is directed. They are described as the chosen people of God, whom He brought up out of the land of Egypt. The Hebrew term used is יִשְׂרָאֵל (Yisra'el), emphasizing their identity as descendants of Jacob and their covenant relationship with God. 3. The Prophets While not named individually in this chapter, the prophets are implied as the messengers through whom God reveals His plans. Amos himself is one of these prophets, serving as the mouthpiece for God's message. The Hebrew word for prophet is נָבִיא (navi). Places 1. Israel This is the primary focus of the message in Amos 3. The chapter begins with a call to the "children of Israel," emphasizing God's special relationship with them and the impending judgment due to their sins. The Hebrew root for Israel is "יִשְׂרָאֵל" (Yisra'el), meaning "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." 2. Egypt Mentioned in the context of God's deliverance of Israel, Egypt serves as a historical reference point for God's past acts of salvation. The Hebrew root is "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim), which refers to the land of Egypt. 3. Philistia Specifically, the "fortresses of Ashdod" are mentioned. Ashdod was one of the major cities of the Philistines, a neighboring people often in conflict with Israel. The Hebrew root for Philistia is "פְּלִשְׁתִּים" (P'lishtim). 4. Egypt (again): The "fortresses of Egypt" are also mentioned, indicating a call for witnesses from these regions to observe the injustices in Israel. This reiterates the historical significance of Egypt as a powerful nation. Events 1. God's Call to Israel God calls the people of Israel to hear His word. This is a direct address to the "children of Israel" (Amos 3:1), emphasizing the covenant relationship. The Hebrew word for "hear" is "שָׁמַע" (shama), which implies not just listening but obeying. 2. Chosen Among All Families God reminds Israel that He has chosen them from all the families of the earth (Amos 3:2). The Hebrew root "יָדַע" (yada) is used for "known," indicating an intimate, covenantal relationship. 3. Punishment for Iniquities Because of this special relationship, God will punish Israel for their iniquities (Amos 3:2). The Hebrew word "עָוֹן" (avon) refers to iniquity or guilt, highlighting the moral and spiritual failures of the people. 4. Rhetorical Questions Illustrating Cause and Effect A series of rhetorical questions are posed to illustrate the principle of cause and effect (Amos 3:3-6). These questions emphasize the inevitability of consequences following actions, using everyday examples. 5. The Role of Prophets God reveals that He does nothing without revealing His plan to His prophets (Amos 3:7). The Hebrew word "נָבִיא" (navi) for "prophet" underscores the role of prophets as God's spokespersons. 6. The Lion's Roar The imagery of a lion roaring is used to signify God's impending judgment (Amos 3:8). The Hebrew word "אַרְיֵה" (aryeh) for "lion" symbolizes power and fear, indicating that the message of the prophet should be taken seriously. 7. Proclamation Against the Fortresses God commands the proclamation against the fortresses of Israel, indicating impending destruction (Amos 3:9-10). The Hebrew word "אַרְמוֹן" (armon) for "fortress" suggests places of security that will be breached due to Israel's sins. 8. Judgment on Samaria Specific judgment is pronounced on Samaria, highlighting the social injustices and violence within (Amos 3:11-12). The Hebrew root "שָׁדַד" (shadad) for "plunder" indicates the complete devastation that will occur. 9. Call to Witness Against Israel God calls the surrounding nations to witness the judgment against Israel (Amos 3:13-15). This serves as a public declaration of Israel's failure to uphold their covenant with God. Lessons from Amos 3 1. The Power of Agreement Amos 3:3 asks, "Can two walk together without agreeing where to go?" This verse highlights the importance of unity and agreement in our relationships. Just as two people must agree on their direction to walk together, we must align our lives with God's will to walk in harmony with Him. This lesson encourages us to seek God's guidance in our decisions and to ensure our actions are in line with His Word. 2. The Certainty of God's Revelation In Amos 3:7, we read, "Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets." This assures us that God communicates His plans and purposes to those who seek Him. We can trust that God will reveal His will to us through Scripture and prayer, guiding us in our daily lives. This lesson reminds us to stay attentive to God's voice and be open to His revelations. 3. The Call to Listen Amos 3:1 begins with a call to hear: "Hear this word that the LORD has spoken against you, O children of Israel." Listening is a crucial part of our relationship with God. We are encouraged to be attentive to His Word and to listen actively, not just with our ears but with our hearts. This lesson challenges us to prioritize time in Scripture and prayer, allowing God's voice to shape our lives. 4. The Consequences of Sin Amos 3:2 states, "You only have I chosen of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities." This verse reminds us that with great privilege comes great responsibility. As God's chosen people, we are called to live righteously. When we stray, there are consequences. This lesson serves as a reminder to live in obedience to God's commands, knowing that our actions have repercussions. 5. The Importance of Accountability In Amos 3:10, it is written, "They do not know how to do right," declares the LORD, "those who store up violence and destruction in their citadels." This highlights the need for accountability in our lives. We must surround ourselves with fellow believers who can encourage us to live according to God's standards. This lesson emphasizes the value of community and accountability in maintaining a righteous path. 6. The Reality of God's Judgment Amos 3:11 warns, "An enemy will overrun the land; he will pull down your strongholds and plunder your fortresses." This verse serves as a sobering reminder of God's judgment. While God is loving and merciful, He is also just. This lesson encourages us to live with an awareness of God's holiness and to strive for a life that honors Him, knowing that His judgment is real. 7. The Call to Repentance Amos 3:12 offers a glimpse of hope: "As a shepherd rescues from the mouth of the lion only two leg bones or a piece of an ear, so will the Israelites be rescued." This imagery of rescue points to the possibility of redemption. God desires repentance and offers salvation to those who turn back to Him. This lesson invites us to examine our hearts and seek God's forgiveness, embracing the grace He offers. 8. The Role of Prophets Amos 3:8 declares, "The lion has roared—who will not fear? The Sovereign LORD has spoken—who can but prophesy?" Prophets play a crucial role in delivering God's messages. This lesson reminds us of the importance of speaking truth and sharing God's Word with others. We are called to be bold in our faith, proclaiming the gospel and living as witnesses to God's truth. 9. The Assurance of God's Sovereignty Amos 3:6 asks, "If a trumpet sounds in a city, will the people not tremble? If calamity comes to a city, has not the LORD caused it?" This verse reassures us of God's sovereignty over all events. Even in times of trouble, we can trust that God is in control. This lesson encourages us to find peace in God's sovereignty, knowing that He works all things for the good of those who love Him. 10. The Urgency of Obedience Amos 3:9 calls out, "Proclaim to the fortresses of Ashdod and to the fortresses of Egypt: 'Assemble yourselves on the mountains of Samaria; see the great unrest within her and the oppression among her people.'" This call to action underscores the urgency of obedience. We are urged to respond promptly to God's commands, recognizing the impact of our obedience on ourselves and others. This lesson inspires us to act swiftly in following God's will, trusting in His perfect timing. Topics 1. God's Unique Relationship with Israel Amos 3:1-2 highlights God's special relationship with Israel: "Hear this word that the LORD has spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the entire clan I brought up out of Egypt: 'You alone have I known from all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.'" The Hebrew word for "known" (יָדַע, yada) implies an intimate, covenantal relationship, emphasizing Israel's unique position and responsibility. 2. The Principle of Cause and Effect Amos 3:3-6 presents a series of rhetorical questions illustrating the principle of cause and effect: "Do two walk together unless they have agreed to meet?... Does a lion roar in the forest when he has no prey?... If a trumpet sounds in a city, do the people not tremble?" These questions underscore the inevitability of consequences, particularly in the context of Israel's disobedience. 3. The Role of Prophets Amos 3:7-8 emphasizes the role of prophets in revealing God's plans: "Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets. The lion has roared—who will not fear? The Lord GOD has spoken—who will not prophesy?" The Hebrew word for "revealing" (גָּלָה, galah) suggests uncovering or making known, highlighting the prophets' role as God's messengers. 4. Judgment on Israel's Neighbors Amos 3:9-10 calls for witnesses against Israel's neighbors: "Proclaim to the citadels of Ashdod and to the citadels of Egypt: 'Assemble on the mountains of Samaria; see the great unrest in the city and the acts of oppression in her midst.'" This passage indicates that even foreign nations are called to witness Israel's injustices, emphasizing the universal standard of God's justice. 5. The Certainty of Judgment Amos 3:11-15 describes the certainty of judgment upon Israel: "Therefore this is what the Lord GOD says: 'An enemy will surround the land; he will pull down your strongholds and plunder your citadels.'" The Hebrew word for "enemy" (צַר, tsar) conveys the idea of distress or adversity, underscoring the impending judgment due to Israel's sins. Themes 1. Divine Election and Responsibility Amos 3:2 states, "You alone have I known from all the clans of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities." This theme highlights the special relationship between God and Israel, emphasizing that being chosen by God comes with the responsibility of obedience. The Hebrew word "yada" (יָדַע) translated as "known" implies an intimate, covenantal relationship. 2. Cause and Effect in Divine Judgment Amos 3:3-6 discusses a series of rhetorical questions, such as "Does a lion roar in the forest when he has no prey?" (v. 4) and "If a trumpet sounds in a city, will the people not tremble?" (v. 6). These illustrate the principle of cause and effect, suggesting that Israel's sins have inevitably led to God's judgment. The Hebrew root "ra'am" (רָעַם) for "roar" conveys the certainty and power of God's impending judgment. 3. Prophetic Revelation Amos 3:7 declares, "Surely the Lord GOD does nothing without revealing His plan to His servants the prophets." This theme underscores the role of prophets as God's messengers, revealing His will and warnings to the people. The Hebrew word "galah" (גָּלָה) for "revealing" indicates uncovering or making known what was hidden. 4. Inevitability of Judgment In Amos 3:8, "The lion has roared—who will not fear? The Lord GOD has spoken—who will not prophesy?" the inevitability of God's judgment is emphasized. The imagery of the lion roaring signifies the certainty and fearfulness of God's pronouncement. The Hebrew "naba" (נָבָא) for "prophesy" suggests a compelled response to God's authoritative word. 5. Social Injustice and Its Consequences Amos 3:9-10 calls for the proclamation of Israel's sins, particularly their social injustices: "They do not know how to do right... they store up violence and destruction in their citadels." This theme highlights the moral decay and social injustice prevalent in Israel, which leads to divine retribution. The Hebrew "chamas" (חָמָס) for "violence" indicates oppressive wrongdoing. 6. Destruction and Exile Amos 3:11-15 describes the coming destruction and exile as a result of Israel's sins: "An enemy will surround the land; he will pull down your strongholds and plunder your citadels" (v. 11). This theme reflects the consequences of disobedience, where the Hebrew "shadad" (שָׁדַד) for "plunder" conveys the complete devastation that will befall Israel. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Divine Election Thank God for choosing you and calling you into a relationship with Him. Pray for the grace to live in a way that honors this calling. Sensitivity to God's Voice Ask God to help you be attentive to His warnings and guidance, whether through Scripture, prayer, or the counsel of others. Alignment with God's Will Pray for the wisdom and strength to align your life with God's purposes, seeking His direction in all areas. Willingness to Accept Correction Request a humble heart that is open to correction and willing to make necessary changes to live righteously. Answering Tough Questions 1. Amos 3:7: How can God do nothing without informing prophets first, and are there instances in the Bible contradicting this idea? 2. Amos 3:12: Is it scientifically or logically plausible for a shepherd to rescue only small fragments from a lion’s mouth? 3. Amos 3:1: Does the lack of direct archaeological evidence for a mass exodus undermine the claim that God led Israel out of Egypt? 4. Amos 3:14: Have researchers discovered any compelling historical proof of the destruction of Bethel’s altars described here? 5. Amos 3:3: If two can’t walk together unless agreed, why does God punish nations for actions they have not consciously “agreed” to commit? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Amos 3 teach us about the relationship between God and His chosen people? 2. How does the series of rhetorical questions in verses 3-8 illustrate the cause and effect in God's actions? 3. How does Amos' prophecy reflect the nature of God's justice? 4. What can we learn about the role and responsibilities of a prophet from Amos 3? 5. How might the warnings given to Israel apply to our lives today? 6. How does God's accountability compare with our understanding of justice in today's world? 7. How can we heed the warnings given by God, like those delivered through Amos, in our daily lives? 8. How does the notion of punishment presented in Amos 3 challenge or affirm your understanding of God's character? 9. What are the consequences of disobedience as shown in Amos 3, and how can we apply this lesson to modern situations? 10. How might the special relationship between God and Israel be understood in today's context? 11. How does Amos 3 encourage you to reflect on your own actions and their consequences? 12. What does this chapter teach us about the connection between privilege and responsibility? 13. How can you apply the lessons from Amos 3 to your personal journey of faith? 14. What steps can we take to avoid the complacency that led to Israel's downfall as warned in Amos 3? 15. How do you understand the connection between God's sovereignty and natural events as depicted in this chapter? 16. Can you find parallels in today's world where a nation or group might face consequences due to collective disobedience to God's laws? 17. How does the concept of national accountability to God, as portrayed in Amos 3, relate to personal accountability? 18. How might the warnings and punishments outlined in Amos 3 influence your understanding of God's love and righteousness? 19. Can you identify a time when you felt like you received a 'prophetic warning' in your own life? How did you respond? 20. How can this chapter's message inspire us to live in obedience to God and cultivate a sense of responsibility towards His word? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions