The prophet establishes his divine commission through rhetorical questions demonstrating cause and effect—a lion roars because it has prey, and Amos prophesies because the Lord has spoken. God announces judgment against Israel's great houses and altars at Bethel, summoning even Ashdod and Egypt to witness the violence and oppression stored up in Samaria's palaces.
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Egypt
View on MapEgypt plays a significant role throughout the Bible, from the time of Abraham to the flight of the Holy Family. Joseph was sold into slavery there and rose to become second to Pharaoh, saving his family during famine. The Israelites were enslaved in Egypt for 400 years before God delivered them through Moses in the Exodus. Jesus' family fled to Egypt to escape King Herod, fulfilling the prophecy "Out of Egypt I called my son."
Damascus
View on MapDamascus is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and plays a significant role in biblical history. It was on the road to Damascus that Saul of Tarsus had his dramatic encounter with the risen Christ and was converted, becoming the apostle Paul. The prophet Elijah was told to anoint Hazael as king of Syria in Damascus. The city is mentioned throughout both the Old and New Testaments.
Position in Book
Judgment on NationsChapters 1-2
Indictment of IsraelChapters 3-6
Three sermons exposing Israel's sins: injustice, false worship, complacency.
Visions of JudgmentChapters 7-9