Amos
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Introduction[i]
The
prophecy of Amos is one of those that speak of the moral condition of the
people, and especially of Israel, who, as we have already seen in the
historical books, represents more particularly the people as such; while Judah
was but as an appanage of the house of David, although containing always a
remnant of the people.
This prophecy, which
does not extend so far down in the history of Israel as that of Hosea, is less
fervent than the latter; sin is not pursued with that consuming fire of
jealousy and of moral revenge, which characterises the burning and broken style
of the prophet Hosea. Nothing, doubtless, can be more decided against evil than
Amos; but, although very simple, he speaks, as it were, from higher ground. In
Hosea we see the anguish of heart produced by the Holy Ghost, in a man who
could not endure evil in the people whom he loved as being the people of God;
while in Amos there is more of the calmness of God's own judgment. There is
much less detail with respect to sin. Certain prominent transgressions of a
special character are pointed out, and the most complete and absolute judgment
is proclaimed.