Chapter Summary

Judgments pronounced upon surrounding peoples — Syria, Tyre, Edom, Ammon.

Discussion Questions for Amos, Chapter 1

1. What is Amos' occupation in verse 1? Can you think of other places in Scripture where this occupation is significant? Why do you think God often uses the shepherd in prominent roles?
2. What kind of message is Amos bringing? Who is his audience? How many specific places does Amos say will receive God's judgment? What has been your response when God has brought judgment in your life because of sin?
3. How many times can you find the phrase "for three crimes, even four" (HCSB)? Why do you think God repeatedly uses this phrase? What does this teach you about how God addresses sin in your life and others?
4. If the Lord is punishing Israel's enemies, what does this teach us about God's role as protector? How have you seen God protect you, or fight for you, in the midst of hardship and suffering?
5. What does this passage teach us about God's sense of justice? Why is important that God is just? How have you seen God exercise justice in your life?
6. Why is it ok for God to punish His enemies in Amos, but in Matthew he tells us to "love your enemies" (HCSB)? Does this make God a hypocrite, or not? How would you apply this seeming contradiction to your life?
7. Why is God so passionate about protecting the vulnerable? Why does God specifically address the cruelty of Israel's enemies? What role does God want you to play in being an advocate for those who are suffering from evil?
8. Why does God specifically mention "pregnant women" (HCSB) in verse 13? What would you conclude is God's view of things like abortion? How does that impact your social and political views on controversial topics such as these?
9. Why does God still choose to bring judgment on the descendants of Israel? How does this relate to God's character of forgiveness? In what ways have you seen God bring consequences for your own sin, despite being forgiven?
10. What is the historical significance of Amos addressing both the King of Judah and the King of Israel? Why are there two separate kingdoms? What areas of your life have you seen division as the consequence of sin and rebellion?

Key Words/Phrase

Punishment, vv. 6, 9, 11, 13.

Characters

God, Amos, Uzziah, Jeroboam, Hazael, Benhadad.

Strong Verse(s)