Amos - Free sermon outlines, Bible study and

(2) The fire—7:4-6(3) The plumb line—7:7-9Historical interlude: Amos at Bethel—7:10-17(4) The basket of summer fruit—8:1-14(5) The ruined temple—9:1-102. A vision of the glorious kingdom—9:11-15MacArthur: Amos addresses Israel’s two primary sins:1) an absence of true worship, and2) a lack of justice.In the midst of their ritualistic performance of worship, they were not pursuing the Lord withtheir hearts (4:4,5; 5:4-6) nor following His standard of justice with their neighbors (5:10-13;6:12). This apostasy, evidenced by continual, willful rejection of the prophetic message ofAmos, is promised divine judgment. Because of His covenant, however, the Lord will notabandon Israel altogether, but will bring future restoration to the righteous remnant (9:7-15).Holwick: Main sins of Amos's society:A. Pride of the government.1) Complacency rampant. 6:1a) Biggest and best. 6:2b) Militarism. "We're number one!" 6:132) Amos's answer in chapter 2:a) Neighboring pagan countries condemned.b) His own country rounds out the list! 2:6B. Corruption of the court system.1) Deny justice to oppressed. 2:7a) Corruption of the courts.2) Despise rebukers, truthful people. 5:10a) Gates were areas for courts. 5:101> Trials were informal.A> An elder as judge.B> Prominent citizens as jury.2> Integrity important, and lacking.b) Those who rebuked or reproved the courts for shoddyjustice were despised. (5:10)3) Take brides, oppress poor. 5:12a) One thing made it work - bribery. 5:12b) Justice turned to poison. 6:124) Prudent keep quiet. 5:13a) Maintain justice! 5:15C. Ostentatious wealth.1) Rich mansions, decorated with ivory. (Archeology) 3:15; 6:4a) Ivory beds, fattened lambs, music, wine, perfume. 6:4-6b) Mansions, lush vineyards. 5:112) Cows of Bashan. "Get us a drink!" 4:1a) Yuppies. 8:13