When you read through the prophecy of Amos, you see a primary problem with Israel at this time was the oppression of the lower class. A primary emphasis of the prophet was a condemnation of those in power and influence; of those who were enjoying their riches while others suffered. Consider the following verses:
“Thus says the LORD: ‘For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not turn away its punishment, because they sell the righteous for silver, and the poor for a pair of sandals. They pant after the dust of the earth which is on the head of the poor, and pervert the way of the humble’” (Amos 2:6-7).
“Hear this word, you cows of Bashan, who are on the mountain of Samaria, who oppress the poor, who crush the needy, who say to your husbands, ‘Bring wine, let us drink!’” (Amos 4:1).
“Therefore, because you tread down the poor and take grain taxes from him, though you have built houses of hewn stone, yet you shall not dwell in them; you have planted pleasant vineyards, but you shall not drink wine from them. For I know your manifold transgressions and your mighty sins: Afflicting the just and taking bribes; diverting the poor from justice at the gate. Therefore the prudent keep silent at that time, for it is an evil time” (Amos 5:11-13).
It is appropriate for us to apply these condemnations of oppression in our own culture. One aspect of our modern times is greed and a lack of regard for those who are downtrodden or vulnerable. This must not be true of the Christian. The principle of love that is revealed in scripture compels us to be considerate of others. It applies to all men, “who is my neighbor?” (cf. Luke 10:25-37). Having said that, it is obvious that the Holy Spirit has put a special emphasis upon our caring for one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith” (Galatians 6:9-10).
Amos called upon Israel to repent of their callous behavior toward one another. “Seek good and not evil, that you may live; so the LORD God of hosts will be with you, as you have spoken. Hate evil, love good; establish justice in the gate. It may be that the LORD God of hosts will be gracious to the remnant of Joseph” (Amos 5:14-15).
It is not enough to defend truth, or to try to refrain from overt acts of decadence and immoral behavior. A big part of our lives as Christians is to be decent to one another, seeking the welfare of others, socially kind and caring, involved and caring for our fellow man. Especially our brothers and sisters in Christ. Consider your discipleship. Does this describe you?
