(June 29, 2023) Brian Bell continues sharing his mediation in Amos… 

What lessons we can learn from the prophet Amos!

In this article I turn our attention to Amos 7:10-17. As I read these verses I see three ‘lessons’ from which we may profit.

1) The challenge Amos faced
In verse 10 we find the challenge to Amos comes from Amaziah who is identified as the priest of Bethel. At this time in Israel’s divided history Bethel in the northern kingdom was a ‘false’ centre of worship, as distinct from Jerusalem which was situated in the southern kingdom of Judah.

 Amaziah brought false accusations against Amos, including –

• Plotting against king Jeroboam, then ruler of the northern kingdom
• Inciting rebellion
• Speaking for personal or financial gain

It is never easy to face accusations or allegations against us and it can be particularly difficult when they come from people who like Amaziah claim to have a ‘spiritual standing.’

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