Therefore so I will do to you, Israel; Because I will do this to you, Prepare to meet your God, Israel. (Amos 4:12)

Woe to you who are longing for the day of the LORD, For what purpose will the day of the LORD be to you? It will be darkness and not light; (Amos 5:18)

The next book we will go through is the book of Amos. Amos appears different from other prophets because he addresses himself as a simple farmer. Many commentators think Amos was an educated man who became a farmer. But Amos himself says he is no more than a farmer. He says that he is not a prophet. It may be that people who called themselves a prophet at that time were highly educated, hold priestly roles, and/or teach others about the Law. Amos did not see himself as a prophet. He knew that he was not educated. However, God made Amos a prophet. Amos spoke as God spoke to him.

Then Amos replied to Amaziah, “I am not a prophet, nor am I the son of a prophet; for I am a herdsman and a grower of sycamore figs. But the LORD took me from following the flock, and the LORD said to me, ‘Go prophesy to My people Israel.’ (Amos 7:14-15)

People think that one should read and study a lot to know God. Most Christians regard highly of those who read many theology books and hold a PhD degree in theology. These educated people like to speak in front of others and teach them. Looking at how churches around the world are doing, I think many theologians/ministers do not speak the truths of God. They are not sad about what is happening in their own churches. They are simply ignorant. Churches are full of people who follow false doctrines. They say they know the Bible. But they seek people’s praises.

To understand the book of Amos, it is important to know the history of Israel after king Solomon. I’d advise you to read 1 and 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles. The Bible is not about how to live a moral life. Our righteousness is not from a man’s will and efforts. I heard many sermons concerning great men and women in the Bible. Ministers often encourage people to become like them. All men and women are corrupt. And we will read that God was not pleased with king David either.

Who improvise to the sound of the harp, And like David have composed songs for themselves (Amos 6:5)

We cannot initiate good works. Our proud minds always rebel against God. We are no different from Adam who rebelled against God. All people deserve to die. But God saves some for His kingdom.

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and this is not of yourselves, it is the gift of God. (Ephesians 2:8)