Amos

Theme 1: (1-3): People and nations are accountable to the Lord for their actions. We all must follow the Law and its respect for community in dealing with others. Syria is rebuked for its harsh punishment against Israel. (1:3-5) and the Philistines are told they will no longer be a people for they sought to sell Israel into slavery. ( 1:6-8). Judah is condemned for not keeping the statues of Jehovah. (2:4-5). Those who know the Lord's law will be held more accountable for disobeying it. (3:1-8). The Lord hates robbers and violent acts noting they will be punished.(3:9-15).

Theme 2 : (4-6): The Lord desires a relationship with us and in this relationship we live differently as we care about other people and look after the needy and vulnerable in society. The Lord judged Israel for their abuse of the poor and needy. (4:1-3). He desired them to turn from their sins and sent plagues upon the land but they did not respond to these plagues and return to the Lord. ( 4:4-11). He desired the people to repent of their sins and be restored to him. (5:4-7). Injustice against the poor damages our relationship with the Lord and we can not worship him without ethical living. ( 5:21-24).Pride and self reliance is judged. ( 6: 4-10).

Theme 3: (7-9): The Lord is in control and no one can thrawt his plans. When we are unfaithful in keeping his commands we face judgement. This is used to restore our relationship with Christ. Amos begs the Lord and he relents in his harsher judgement of Israel. ( 7:1-6). Like the High Priest Amaziah , those who oppose God 's plans will face judgement. ( 7: 10-17). If we reject God we should not expect to be able to call to him in times of distress. Repentence is our only option. ( 8:10). The Lord judges nations and individuals and in doing so desires us to turn to him. (9:1-9).