Minor Prophets Study Imagery and Metaphor
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Dec 6, 2023
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BIBL 317
Jerry O. Johnson
M
INOR
P
ROPHETS
S
TUDY
: P
ASSAGE
A
NALYSIS
T
EMPLATE
A
MOS
2:6–16
1.
Historical Context:
In at least 150 words, explain the prophet’s historical context. Be sure to include elements like dates, region of ministry, political environment, kings reigning during his time, etc. Your answer to this question should be in paragraph and include at least 1 reference to or citation
from a scholarly resource. Amos was one of the “shepherds” of Tekoa, a town in the hill country of Judah about 10 miles south of Jerusalem before he began prophesying. He managed or owned large herds of sheep and goats, and was in charge of other shepherds. Besides overseeing his livestock operations, Amos was also occupied in growing sycamore fruit, presumably as a sideline. The long reigns of Uzziah (790–739 b.c.) in Judah and of Jeroboam II (793–753 b.c.) in Israel had brought stability, prosperity, and expansion to the two kingdoms. The Northern Kingdom, to whom Amos’ message was directed, was at the zenith of its power. Wealth began to accumulate in her cities, commerce thrived, an upper class emerged, and expensive homes were built, while the poor became targets for legal and economic exploitation. Slavery
for debt was easily accepted, and standards of morality had sunk to a low ebb. Meanwhile, religion flourished, and the people thronged to the shrines for the yearly festivals, enthusiastically offering their sacrifices.
According to Sunukjian, Amos was a shepherd before he became a prophet. He lived in the Northern Kingdom during the reigns of Jeroboam II of Israel and Uzziah of Judah. The two kingdoms were prosperous and powerful, but their prosperity led to social injustice and moral
corruption. The rich exploited the poor, and religious observance was marked by insincerity and immorality. Clements suggests that Amos' message was a call to repentance and a warning of impending judgement. He saw God as a God of justice who would not tolerate the
oppression of the poor and the abuse of power by the wealthy.
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2.
Portrayal of Evil:
In at least 150 words, answer the following questions. Is the passage listing particular sins, or
is it portraying it (symbolically)? Please elaborate. Similarly, is the accusation specific or more generalized/abstract? Is the sin directed at other people (social) or directly toward God (religious)? Realize that even though we construct this division, both ultimately earn divine judgment in the same manner. Is the passage highlighting individuals or groups? Which parts of the Mosaic covenant is the audience breaking? Your answer for this section should be in paragraph and include at least 1 reference to or quotation from a scholarly source.
The passage in question is Amos 2:6 to Amos 6, which speaks of the judgment against Israel. The passage highlights how the people of Israel had broken the Mosaic Covenant in various 1 Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, Wheaton, IL: 1425
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ways. They had committed social injustice, legal perversion, sexual sin, abuse of collateral, and idolatry. The passage accuses individuals and groups of their sins, both directed towards God and other people. The sins of the people were specifically listed, not symbolically portrayed. The sins of the people were directed towards other people as well as God. The audience was the Northern tribes of Israel.
The passage is clear in pointing out the different parts of the Mosaic Covenant that the audience was breaking. For instance, they were not practicing generosity and open-
handedness towards the poor, which was commanded by the covenant. The courts had colluded with creditors to deny justice to the oppressed. The people had shown their disregard for the Lord of the covenant and profaned His holy name by engaging in sexual promiscuity. The people had also rebelled against the most basic covenant stipulation by worshipping other gods.
3.
Denunciation of Evil:
In at least 150 words, answer the following questions. Does the prophet use outside evidence in the accusation/denunciation? (See Jeremiah 8:7 for an example where the birds are used to
demonstrate how evil and unwise the people are. Another popular form of evidence is the audience’s historical memory.) Read the following verses in Amos 3:1–2 and provide an explanation for why Israel is singled out for such severe punishment (especially when compared to the sins of the nations identified in 1:2—2:5). Your answer for this section should be in paragraph and include at least 1 reference to or quotation from a scholarly source.
In denouncing evil, prophets often use outside evidence to support their accusations. In Jeremiah 8:7, for example, the prophet uses the behavior of birds to illustrate the foolishness of the people: "Even the stork in the sky knows her appointed seasons, and the dove, the swift and the thrush observe the time of their migration. But my people do not know the requirements of the Lord." Amos uses historical evidence. This was not the first time the children of Israel had committed similar sins. In the book of Isaiah chapter 13, the people where punished for their arrogance and ruthlessness. The sold their brothers to slavery who could not pay their debts.
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In Amos 3:1-2, Israel is singled out for severe punishment because they were the chosen people of God. They were in a unique relationship with God, and as such, they were expected
to behave differently than the other nations. The people of Israel were God's people, and they
alone were chosen out of all the families of the earth. They had been brought up out of Egypt and had been intimately revealed to God's plans and intentions for them.
Because of this special relationship, their sins were even more terrible than those of the other nations. The punishment that God would bring upon them would be severe because of their covenantal relationship with Him. God had given them great covenantal blessings, and as such, they should have wanted to please Him in return.
2 Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, Wheaton, IL: 1431
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4.
Prediction of Judgment against Evildoers:
In at least 150 words, answer the following questions. What are the consequences of the people’s sin(s)? What are some of the images used to describe their judgment? How does the punishment reflect the covenant curses established in Deuteronomy 28? Your answer for this section should be in paragraph and include at least 1 reference to or quotation from a scholarly source.
The consequences of their sin include destruction, exile, and loss of status as God's chosen people. The prophet Amos warns that the people's religious rituals and sacrifices are meaningless without true repentance and obedience to God's commands.
b. The book of Amos uses vivid images to describe the judgment against evildoers. These include the image of a plumb line measuring the nation's righteousness (Amos 7:7-8), the image of a basket of ripe fruit symbolizing the nation's imminent destruction (Amos 8:1-2), and the image of a roaring lion ready to pounce on its prey (Amos 3:4-8).
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c. The punishment predicted in the book of Amos reflects the covenant curses established in Deuteronomy 28. These curses include famine, pestilence, defeat in battle, and exile (Deuteronomy 28:15-68). The book of Amos describes these same curses as the consequences of Israel's disobedience to God's covenant. The punishment reflects a breach in
the covenant relationship between God and his people. As Walvoord and Zuck note, "God’s electing grace is always meant to influence one’s conduct. His special commitments and blessings often contain special chastisements to discipline and to purge" (Bible Knowledge Commentary).
5.
Summary:
In at least 75 words, answer the following questions. How does God’s indictment of Israel in these verses inform us about the purpose of Amos’ ministry? In other words, according to this
passage, why has Amos been called to preach against Israel?
In Amos chapters 1 through 3, God indicts Israel for their sins and announces punishment against them. This informs us that the purpose of Amos' ministry was to call Israel to repentance and warn them of God's impending judgment if they did not turn from their wicked ways. Amos was called to preach against Israel because they had turned away from God and had become corrupt in their worship, social and economic practices, and treatment of the poor and marginalized. They had abandoned the covenant that God had made with them and had become like the nations around them. Therefore, Amos was called to remind them of their covenantal relationship with God and to call them to return to Him.
3 Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, Wheaton, IL: 1426
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BIBL 317
Jerry O. Johnson
M
INOR
P
ROPHETS
S
TUDY
: I
MAGERY
AND
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ETAPHOR
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EMPLATE
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MOS
God: How is God portrayed in Amos?
In the book of Amos, God is portrayed using various images and metaphors. He is depicted as a judge, a shepherd, a fire, and a storm. His attributes include anger, compassion, and jealousy, as well as being heartbroken by Israel's disobedience. Throughout the book, God is seen bringing judgment upon Israel for their sins, but also offering redemption and restoration for those who repent and turn back to Him.
One of the main images used for God in Amos is that of a judge. Amos presents God as a just and righteous judge who will not tolerate sin and injustice. This is seen in the metaphor of the plumb line, which represents God's standard of righteousness against which Israel (the covenant Law and its requirements) is measured (Sunukjian). Another image used for God is that of a shepherd, who cares for and protects His flock. This is seen in Amos 3:12, where God is described as rescuing His people from the jaws of a wild animal (Sunukjian)
God's attributes are also highlighted in the book of Amos. He is portrayed as anger towards Israel
for their disobedience and idolatry, but also compassionate towards those who turn back to Him (Sunukjian). His heart is broken by Israel's unfaithfulness and rejection of His love and mercy. God's actions in the book include bringing judgment upon Israel for their sins, controlling the elements through storms and earthquakes, and offering redemption and restoration to those who repent and turn back to Him.
In summary, the book of Amos presents God as a just and righteous judge who cares for and protects His people. He is portrayed using various images and metaphors, including that of a judge, a shepherd, and a creator. His attributes include anger, compassion, jealousy, and a broken
heart over Israel's disobedience. God's actions in the book include bringing judgment upon Israel for their sins, controlling the elements, and offering redemption and restoration to those who repent and turn back to Him (Daniel). Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, edited by J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1, 1423-1453. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983.
R. Carroll M. Daniel. The Book of Amos: Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdman’s Publising Company, 2020
Unless otherwise noted, all biblical passages referenced are in the
English Standard Version
(Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2011). Amos 1:2, 3:12, 5:24, 7:7-9, and 9:5-6.
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Audience(s): How is the Audience(s) portrayed in Amos? In the book of Amos, the audience is primarily Israel and Judah, although foreign nations are also
included in some of the oracles and actions. The audience is portrayed using various images and metaphors that highlight their characterizations and actions. They are depicted as guilty, ignorant,
stubborn, and oppressive towards the poor and marginalized (Sunukjian).
One of the main images used to describe the audience is that of a prostitute, who has betrayed her husband and is engaging in promiscuous behavior. This image highlights Israel's spiritual adultery and covenant violation, as they have turned away from God and pursued other gods. Another image used to describe the audience is that of a cow, which represents their stubbornness and refusal to repent and turn back to God (Sunukjian).
The audience's attributes include guilt, ignorance, stubbornness, and oppression towards the poor
and marginalized. They are depicted as being blind to their own sin and in need of repentance. Their actions include covenant violation, idolatry, violence, and oppression of the poor and marginalized (Sunukjian).
The land and society are also described using various images and metaphors. They are depicted as being in ruins, experiencing famine, and mourning. The people are engaged in violent and oppressive behavior, and there is a lack of justice and righteousness in society.
In summary, the audience in Amos is portrayed as guilty, ignorant, stubborn, and oppressive towards the poor and marginalized. They are depicted using various images and metaphors, including a prostitute and a cow, highlighting their characterizations and actions. The land and society are described as being in ruins, experiencing famine, and mourning. Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, edited by J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1, 1423-1453. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983. (1435,
Unless otherwise noted, all biblical passages referenced are in the
English Standard Version
(Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2011). Amos 2:4-8, 4:1-3, 5:10-15, 8:4-7, and 9:7-10. Message: How do the imagery and metaphors work together to shape the message of Amos?
The book of Amos employs various literary forms, including warnings, oracles of judgment, oracles of hope, vision reports, and disputations, to convey its message (Daniel). The use of vivid
imagery and metaphors throughout the book works together to shape the message by providing powerful and memorable visual representations of God, the audience, and their actions.
The imagery and metaphors for God in Amos convey both His anger and compassion towards His people. He is portrayed as a lion, a storm, a warrior, and a judge, indicating His power and authority in bringing judgment on Israel for their covenant violation and oppression of the poor. Page 5 of 8
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However, He is also depicted as a rescuer, a lover, and a parental figure, highlighting His compassion and desire for His people to repent and return to Him.
The audience is portrayed using various images and metaphors that highlight their characterizations and actions. They are depicted as a prostitute, a cow, and a basket of ripe fruit, emphasizing their spiritual adultery, stubbornness, and lack of repentance (Sunukjian). The use of these images and metaphors works to form the message by providing powerful visual representations of Israel's sin and the consequences of their actions.
The literary forms used in Amos also play a significant role in shaping the message. The oracles of judgment, warnings, and vision reports all serve to emphasize the severity of Israel's sin and the impending judgment that is coming upon them. The oracles of hope and salvation, on the other hand, offer a glimmer of hope for those who repent and turn back to God.
In summary, the imagery and metaphors in Amos work together with the literary forms to shape the message of the book. They provide powerful visual representations of God, the audience, and
their actions, highlighting the severity of Israel's sin and the impending judgment that is coming upon them. Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, edited by J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1, 1423-1453. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983. (1435,
R. Carroll M. Daniel. The Book of Amos: Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdman’s Publising Company, 2020
Unless otherwise noted, all biblical passages referenced are in the
English Standard Version
(Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2011). Amos 3:1-8, 4:12-13, 5:18-20, 7:1-9, and 9:11-15. Themes: What are the major themes that appear in Amos?
The book of Amos addresses several theological themes that provide insight into God’s relationship with His people. Some of the most prominent themes in the book include:
Social justice/injustice: This theme is perhaps the most significant in the book of Amos. Amos confronts the unjust practices of Israel’s leaders, particularly their mistreatment of the poor and marginalized members of society. He denounces the wealthy who abuse the legal system to enrich themselves, exploit the poor, and commit other injustices.
Judgment: Amos warns Israel of God's impending judgment for their disobedience and injustice. The judgment is presented as a result of God’s justice and righteousness. This theme is an essential part of the book and functions as a warning to God's people of the consequences of their
disobedience.
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Covenant: Throughout the book, Amos emphasizes the importance of the covenant relationship between God and His people. The covenant was central to Israel’s identity as God’s chosen people, and Amos emphasizes the need for the people to remain faithful to it.
The Day of the Lord: Amos speaks of a future day when God will come in judgment against His people and their enemies. This day of judgment will be accompanied by darkness, mourning, and
destruction, but it will ultimately lead to a restoration of God’s people.
Remnant: In the midst of the impending judgment, Amos offers hope for a remnant who will be saved. This remnant is those who remain faithful to God and His covenant, and they will be restored to their place as God’s chosen people.
The themes in the book of Amos work together to convey a message of God’s justice, righteousness, and faithfulness to His covenant. The book emphasizes the importance of social justice, warns of the consequences of disobedience, and offers hope for a remnant who will be saved. Ultimately, the book of Amos is a call to repentance and obedience for God's people, with the hope of restoration for those who turn back to Him.
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Bibliography
Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, edited by J. F. Walvoord and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1, 1423-1453. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983. (1435,
R. Carroll M. Daniel. The Book of Amos: Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdman’s Publising Company, 2020
Unless otherwise noted, all biblical passages referenced are in the
English Standard Version
(Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 2011).
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