Minor Prophets Study Correlation and Application_Asignment
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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.
1
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.
1
Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, Wheaton,
IL: 1425
Page 1 of 14
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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
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.
2
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
2
Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, Wheaton,
IL: 1431
Page 2 of 14
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covenantal relationship with Him. God had given them great covenantal blessings, and as
such, they should have wanted to please Him in return.
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).
3
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
3
Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.” In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, Wheaton,
IL: 1426
Page 3 of 14
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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.
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M
INOR
P
ROPHETS
S
TUDY
: I
MAGERY
AND
M
ETAPHOR
T
EMPLATE
A
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.
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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.
M
INOR
P
ROPHETS
S
TUDY
: C
ORRELATION
AND
A
PPLICATION
T
EMPLATE
A
MOS
The Minor Prophets
Passages from Amos:
Amos 2:6-8 - This passage condemns the mistreatment of the poor and needy, emphasizing the
theme of social injustice.
Amos 5:24 - "But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!" This
verse nderscores the theme of social justice and righteousness.
Amos 9:11-12 - These verses speak of the restoration and rebuilding of David's fallen tent,
highlighting the theme of future restoration and redemption.
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Passages from other books:
Micah 6:8 - "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." This verse echoes the theme
of social justice and righteousness found in Amos.
Hosea 6:6 - "For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt
offerings." This passage reflects the theme of genuine repentance and sincere relationship with
God, aligning with Amos' emphasis on integrity.
Joel 2:28-32 - These verses speak of God pouring out His Spirit and the coming day of the Lord,
connecting with the eschatological themes present in Amos, pointing to future restoration and
redemption.
These passages from other books complement the themes in Amos by reinforcing the
importance of social justice, righteousness, genuine repentance, and the hope of future
restoration. They provide a bigger picture to the message of Amos by showing that these themes
were not isolated to Amos alone but were part of a broader prophetic tradition.
Sunukjian, Donald R. “Amos.”, Chisholm, Robert B. “Joel”, “Hosea”, Martin, John A. “Micah”,
In The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures, edited by J. F. Walvoord
and R. B. Zuck, vol. 1, Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1983.
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The Old Testament
Amos reveals Israel's failure to uphold their end of the covenant and how their actions
affect the realization of these promises. Their social injustice, idolatry, and neglect of the poor
and needy directly oppose the covenant's call for righteousness and being a blessing to others.
Amos 3:1-2 highlights Israel's unique relationship with God, being chosen among all the
nations. Their actions and unfaithfulness jeopardize the fulfillment of the covenant promises.
However, Amos also contains messages of hope, such as Amos 9:11-15, where God promises
future restoration and rebuilding, fulfilling the Abrahamic Covenant.
God plans in Amos to fulfill these promises involve both judgment and restoration. The
judgment serves as a corrective measure to bring Israel back to faithfulness, while the restoration
demonstrates God's faithfulness to His covenant promises.
Amos 5:14-15 emphasizes the call to seek good and hate evil, indicating that by pursuing
righteousness and justice, Israel can align themselves with the Abrahamic Covenant's
expectations. Through genuine repentance and a change in their actions, they can participate in
the fulfillment of the covenant promises.
Additionally, Amos 9:11-12 speaks of the future restoration of the "booth of David." This
restoration refers to the establishment of a righteous and just Davidic ruler who will lead Israel in
accordance with the covenant. This connects to the promise of kingship in the Abrahamic
Covenant (Genesis 17:6), suggesting that God's plan to fulfill the covenant includes the
restoration of righteous leadership.
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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).
The New Testament
Utilizing the knowledge and analysis presented in R. Carroll M. Daniel's "The Book of
Amos," James draws upon these insights to support his argument in Acts 15:12-19. During the
Jerusalem Council, James references Amos 9:11-12 to affirm the inclusion of Gentiles in the
early Christian community. In James' interpretation, the fulfillment of the eschatological day of
redemption mentioned in Amos is realized in the person of Jesus Christ. James perceives Jesus as
the Davidic king who brings about the restoration and rebuilding described in Amos.
Consequently, the fulfillment of Amos 9:11-12 signifies that salvation is now extended to both
Jews and Gentiles, and the Gentiles are embraced as partakers of the blessings promised in the
Abrahamic Covenant. By referring to R. Carroll M. Daniel's scholarly work on the Book of
Amos, we gain valuable insights into James' understanding of Amos' prophecy and its relevance
in the New Testament, specifically in relation to the inclusion of Gentiles in God's redemptive
plan.
R. Carroll M. Daniel. The Book of Amos: Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdman’s Publising Company,
2020
Application
Pursuing Social Justice: Amos's prophetic message emphasizes the importance of justice
and righteousness in society. Modern Christians can draw inspiration from Amos's call to
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actively engage in promoting social justice. This involves advocating for the marginalized,
speaking out against systemic injustices, and working towards creating a more just and equitable
society. Christians can participate in initiatives aimed at addressing issues such as poverty,
inequality, discrimination, and oppression. By standing up for the rights and dignity of all people,
modern Christians can embody the principles of justice and righteousness that Amos
championed.
Authentic Worship and Holiness: Amos denounces empty religious rituals that lack
genuine repentance and wholehearted devotion to God. This message remains relevant for
modern Christians as well. Amos's words challenge believers to reflect on their own worship
practices and ensure that they are not merely going through the motions or performing empty
rituals. Instead, true worship involves sincere repentance, humility, and obedience to God's
commands. Modern Christians can examine their motives, attitudes, and actions in worship,
seeking to cultivate a deep and authentic relationship with God. This includes a genuine desire to
live out God's values of love, justice, and mercy in their daily lives. By aligning their worship
with genuine repentance and wholehearted devotion, Christians can honor God and reflect His
character to the world around them.
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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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Bibliography
Last Name, First Name. Other bibliographic info.
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