Chapter Summary

God's lamentation over Israel and captivity foretold. The day of the Lord.

Discussion Questions for Amos, Chapter 5

1. Why does Amos sing a song of "lament" (HCSB) over Israel? Why is it important that we grieve over our sin and our unrighteousness? In what ways do you incorporate "lament", or sadness over your sins, in your daily life?
2. Why does God continually say "seek Me and live" (HCSB)? How does our pursuit of God bring us life? What are some practical ways that you can seek God daily to grow closer to Him?
3. Why does God address injustice and oppression in this chapter? Why is God so serious about true and lasting justice on earth? In what ways can you contribute to a more just and Christ-centered society?
4. Does it seem to you as if God desires for repentance from His people, and restoration? How does that fit with His character? In what ways have you seen God pursue restoration with you?
5. Why does God specifically address the sin of idolizing material possessions? How can wealth and material possessions impact how we live, and how we relate to others?
6. What is the significance of God continually using the phrase "the Day of the Lord" (HCSB)? Is that for a particular time in the future? What does that teach you about how to view God's promises, whether about judgment or otherwise?
7. Why does God reject the offerings and sacrifices of the Israelites in verses 21-24? What does this teach us about hypocritical worship? In what ways are you tempted to be hypocritical?
8. What is the significance of God identifying the false idols in verse 26 like "Sakkuth" (HCSB) and "Kaiwan" (HCSB)? How does this demonstrate God's views of idols? What idols in your life can you identify that God would detest, ilke the idols of Amos' time?
9. What is the purpose of God describing His power over nature and creation in verses 8-9? How would that make the Israelites feel to think of their rebellion in relation to God's power? How does God's power over creation impact your view of Him, and how you should relate to Him?
10. Why does God tell the Israelites in verse 15 to "hate evil and love good" (HCSB)? How would that set them apart from the rest of the world? How can you hate evil and love good in the daily choices you make?

Key Words/Phrase

Lamentation, vv. 1, 16.

Characters

God.

Strong Verse(s)

8, 9, 14, 15.