AMOS
The Shepherd Prophet
Physical Description & Origins
The Rugged Shepherd
Amos was a shepherd and fig farmer from Tekoa, a small town in the Judean wilderness. His hands were calloused from outdoor work, his skin weathered by sun and wind. As a man of the countryside, he would have had the strong, sturdy build of someone who spent his life caring for flocks in rugged terrain.
Unlikely Prophet
Amos was not a professional prophet or from a prophetic family. He was a simple working man whom God called to deliver a powerful message of justice to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. His rural background gave him a unique perspective on social injustice and economic oppression.
"I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. But the Lord took me from tending the flock and said to me, 'Go, prophesy to my people Israel.'" - Amos 7:14-15
Historical Context & Ministry
Prosperity and Corruption
Amos ministered during a time of great prosperity in Israel under King Jeroboam II (c. 760-750 BC). However, this wealth had created a huge gap between rich and poor, with the wealthy oppressing the needy and perverting justice.
Social Justice Warrior
As an outsider from Judah, Amos brought a fresh perspective to Israel's social problems. He condemned the wealthy for their luxury while the poor suffered, calling for justice to "roll on like a river" and righteousness like "a never-failing stream."
"But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!" - Amos 5:24
Personality & Character
Fearlessly Honest
Amos spoke truth without compromise, unafraid to confront the wealthy and powerful with their sins, even when it brought opposition and threats.
Passionate for Justice
His messages burned with righteous indignation against social injustice, economic oppression, and the mistreatment of the poor and vulnerable.
Simple and Direct
Amos used plain, powerful language drawn from his rural background, making his messages accessible and memorable to all social classes.
Reluctant but Obedient
Though not seeking the prophetic office, Amos obeyed God's call completely, leaving his comfortable life to deliver difficult messages to a hostile audience.
Divine Purpose & Mission
Champion of Social Justice
God called Amos to be His voice for social justice, condemning the oppression of the poor and calling for true righteousness in society. His message remains relevant for all who care about economic justice and social equity.
Warning of Judgment
Amos warned that prosperity without righteousness leads to judgment. His prophecies of Israel's coming exile were fulfilled when Assyria conquered the Northern Kingdom in 722 BC.
Call to True Religion
Amos exposed the emptiness of religious ritual without justice, declaring that God despises festivals and offerings when His people oppress the poor and pervert justice.
"I hate, I despise your religious festivals; your assemblies are a stench to me... But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!" - Amos 5:21, 24
c. 760-750 BC
Tekoa (Judah)
Shepherd & Fig Farmer
Northern Israel
Social Justice
Amos
Powerful prophecy calling for social justice and warning against oppression of the poor