Episode 197: Symbols from the Book of Amos

Amos is a shepherd and a fruit picker from the Judean village of Tekoa when God calls him, even though he lacks an education or a priestly background. Amos' mission is directed to his neighbor to the north, Israel. His messages of impending doom and captivity for the nation because of her sins are largely unpopular and unheeded, however, because not since the days of Solomon have times been so good in Israel. Amos' ministry takes place while Jeroboam II reigns over Israel, and Uzziah reigns over Judah. Amos may have started out just as “one of the herdsmen” – no one whom others would have regarded as special. But he is willing to be used by God and God uses him as an agent of change.

Scriptures referenced include Amos 3:8; Amos 1:2; Amos 7:14; and Amos 1:1.