Chapter Summary

The basket of summer fruit foretelling Israel's near ruin. Summary of the case against Israel.

Discussion Questions for Amos, Chapter 8

1. Why does God specifically call out the Israelites for the economic injustice they practiced? How does God view the poor and the needy? How do we see economic injustice practiced today? In what ways can you play a role in addressing these types of injustices?
2. Why would God bring a "famine" (HCSB) of hearing His words in verse 11? Why would His silence be such a terrible form of punishment? In what ways have you experienced a "famine" of, or been prevented from, hearing God's Word in your life? What kind of effect did it have on you?
3. What does the "basket of summer fruit" (HCSB) represent that Amos sees in his vision from God? How does the bountiful harvest of the basket contrast with the coming destruction and famine of God's judgment? What examples have you seen in your life where a harvest has become destroyed because of sin?
4. In what ways had the Israelites exploited others for their own gain? In what ways might you be tempted to exploit others for personal gain, whether in personal or business relationships?
5. Why does God promise "mourning" (HCSB) and "lamentation" (HCSB) in verse 10? What does this say about what our response to sin should be? What are examples in your life where you have experienced brokenness and repentance over your sin?
6. Why is the honesty and integrity of the Israelites so important to God in this passage? What happens to societies that practice dishonesty? In what ways can you cultivate honesty and integrity in your daily actions?
7. How can we reconcile how God will "never forget" (HCSB) the evil deeds of the Israelites with His loving and forgiving nature? How does this help you understand God's character as it relates to sin and righteousness? When was a time in your life where you felt God "remembered" your sin? What does that mean to you?
8. How were the Israelites practicing religious idolatry in verse 14? How does God's reaction to them underscore His holiness and hatred of idols? In what ways have you made something an idol in your life?
9. Why were the Israelites so obsessed with material possessions? How did that contribute to their oppression of the poor and the needy? In what ways does your heart gravitate towards greed and material possessions / wealth?
10. Why does God address the "beautiful young women" (HCSB) and "young men" (HCSB) in verse 13? What does this tell us about age and external beauty? In what ways might you place hope or confidence in bodily appearance or physical strength?

Key Words/Phrase

The end, v. 2.

Characters

God, Amos.

Strong Verse(s)

7 (b), 11.