JUNE 17, 2018 - "A PROPHET OF WRATH"

In the 8th century before the birth of Christ, the land of Israel experienced great affluence and prosperity. Jeroboam II reigned supreme over the region during this time that, outwardly, appeared to be an “era of contentment” for the Israelites.

Out of the deserts of Judea, however, a great prophet came forth, uttering ominous warnings of impending judgment against the Hebrew nation. That man was AMOS, sent by God from his home in Tekoa - near Jerusalem - to the northern kingdom of Israel with this message for its inhabitants: Change our ways or suffer the consequences!

God was not pleased with Israel. He expected His “chosen people” to be examples of morality and piety. In reality, they were experiencing great spiritual decay. Even their expressions of worship were shallow and insincere.

How successful was Amos in convincing the Israelites to repent and turn back to the Lord? Sadly, the people turned a deaf ear to his pleas. The high priest Amaziah led a movement to drive the prophet out of the land of Bethel, forcing him back t o his homeland in the Judean wilderness.

In less than 30 years, the prophetic words of Amos came true. The Assyrians rose up and conquered the Hebrews, forcing them into exile. In effect, the kingdom of Israel ceased to exist, falling victim to the wrath of the Lord.