The Lord who Roars

Amos

It is said that the aim of communication is to “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.” In the 8th century BC, Israel (having separated from the southern kingdom, Judah) enjoyed a period of almost unparalleled prosperity. Though long afflicted, they’d become comfortable. They were healthy and wealthy. Their borders were expanding and the economy was booming. Their sanctuaries at Bethel and Dan, albeit defiled by pagan practices (2:7), were bustling. The people were giving and sacrificing toward religious service. They were committed to the traditions of their fathers. What other interpretation of providence could they have than that the blessing of God was upon them?

Amos stepped on the scene with a disruptive message, “judgment is coming.” (2:13-16) Through this unsuspecting prophet, “the Lord roared” with a “withering word” (1:2) intended to afflict them out of their comfort. It didn’t work. The pastures of the shepherds mourned and the top of Carmel (a place of lush vegetation) withered, but the hearts of God’s people remained unchanged (2:12). Within a generation, the judgment foretold by the prophet (2:13-16) arrived in the form of the Assyrian army and Israel was taken into exile.

As we prepare to hear God’s Word from Amos 1:3 - 2:16 this Lord’s  Day, may this not be true of us. Let us ask God to use these words to gently comfort those who are afflicted and to lovingly afflict those who are comfortable, for His glory and our good.

As we gather to worship the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit this Lord’s Day, we will join our hearts and voices in singing the Hymn of Praise “Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven” the Acclamation of Praise “What’er My God Ordains is Right,” and the Hymn of Response “Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending.” Let us come to worship this Sunday prepared to hear God’s Word, receive it in faith, and obey it that we may continue to glorify and enjoy Him! 

Sermon Information

Text: Amos 1:3 - 2:16

Title: The Lord who Roars

Outline:

1. The Lord is patient
2. The Lord is pure
3. The Lord pardons

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