UNDERSTANDING AMOS | MEGA-THEMES

0. Introduction

a) The Bible Book Introductions are divided into 4 parts (Overview, Vital Statistics, Blueprint, Mega-themes) for easy-to-understand.

1. Mega-themes

@1. Theme: "Everyone answers to God"

a) Explanation

i) Amos pronounced judgment from God on all the surrounding nations. Then he included Judah and Israel. God is in supreme control of all nations. Everyone is accountable to him. 

b) Importance

i) All people will have to account for their sin. When those who reject God seem to get ahead, don't envy their prosperity or feel sorry for yourself. Remember that we all must answer to God for how we live. 

@2. Theme: "Complacency"

a) Explanation

i) Everyone is optimistic, business was booming, and people were happy (except for the poor and oppressed). With all the comfort and luxury came self-sufficiency and a false sense of security. But prosperity brought corruption and destruction.

b) Importance

i) A complacent present leads to a disastrous future. Don't congratulate yourself for the blessings and benefits you now enjoy. They are from God. If you are more satisfied with yourself than with God, remember that everything is meaningless without him. A self-sufficient attitude may be your downfall. 

@3. Theme: "Oppressing the poor"

a) Explanation

i) The wealthy and powerful people are Samaria, the capital of Israel, had become prosperous, greedy, and unjust. Illegal and immoral slavery came as the result of over-taxation and land-grabbing. There was also cruelty and indifference towards the poor. God is weary of greed and will not tolerate injustice. 

b) Importance

i) God made all people; therefore, to ignore the poor is to ignore those whom God loves and Christ came to save. We must go beyond feeling bad for the poor and oppressed. We must act compassionately to stop injustice and to help care for those in need. 

@4. Theme: "Superficial religion" 

a) Explanation

i) Although many people had abandoned real faith in God, they still pretended to be religious. They were carrying on nominal religious performances instead of having spiritual integrity and practicing heartfelt obedience toward God. 

b) Importance

i) Merely participating in ceremony or ritual falls short of true religion. God wants simple trust in him, not showy external actions. Don't settle for impressing others with external rituals when God wants heartfelt obedience and commitment.