It is a rare occasion in Amos where we actually get to see how people responded to him. In this case, we see the priest of Bethel who is in a lot of danger from Amos. After all, Amos is telling people that worship at Bethel is generating sinful practices. Amaziah, however, thinks that Amos is just trying to stir up trouble in Israel so that people will move to Judah (Amos is from Judah). So he tries to throw Amos out on charges of espionage and treason.
But that's not what Amos is about. He's not a hired professional. In fact, Amos isn't a professional at all. He grew fig trees and took care of sheep. He was never trained to be a prophet, he didn't inherit that job from his family, he was just a simple guy trying to obey God.
Following God is never about being a professional Christian. It doesn't require all sorts of titles and degrees. It's not about social status or any of those things. Following God is simply offering yourself and being obedient to God's call. Sometimes we think we aren't qualified as Christians, that we don't know enough or have the right skills. But those aren't the things that God looks at. God looks at a heart that is dedicated and a spirit that is humble and a voice that declares that Jesus is Lord. Amen.
Amen!
ReplyDeleteSallie, Good to have you join the discussion and another Amen!!!! to Andy's comments.
ReplyDeleteI find it interesting that not only is the priest of Bethel upset, but he describes what Amos is trying to share with the Israelites as intolerable.(even though God is telling him what to say) I guess even back in his day speaking God's truth would sometimes be viewed the same way as it is today, i.e. intolerable, especially when the critics have their own vested interest at heart. Speaking the truth in love still has risks, but as Andy preached on Sunday, Jesus promised..."And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age".(Matt. 28: 20) I guess when it's all said and done, we're in pretty good hands with Him no matter what the outcome!!!