The Book of Amos

A Prophet of Peace and Prosperity

Amos prophesied in the Northern Kingdom about 760–750 B.C., near the same time as the prophet Hosea. At the time, the Northern Kingdom of Israel experienced peace and prosperity. All did not share the prosperity, however, since some became very rich through a disregard of the laws of the Lord while others became poorer. In addition, most of the nation, including the kings, participated in idol worship, and very few were keeping the commandments. The Lord sent Amos to command the people to repent of these sins.

Background

Amos was a simple shepherd from a small town, but he had a powerful and important message about applying gospel principles in our lives and about the judgments of God upon the proud. For more information on Amos, see the Bible Dictionary, ”Amos” (pp. 607–8).