Amos is probably one of the most neglected books of the Bible, so let’s begin by getting a quick introduction to the book of Amos.

Author: Amos
Date: Around 760 B.C
Recipients: Israel (northern kingdom)
Theme: Judgment is coming to Israel
Key Verse: ““You only have I known of all the families of the earth; therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities” (3:2).

Look at 1:2. “The LORD roars from Zion and utters his voice from Jerusalem.” Yahweh is described as a roaring lion, ready to attack. Now go over to 3:8. “The lion has roared; who will not fear?” The metaphor of God being a roaring lion speaks of judgment.

Is God really like a roaring lion, ready to attack?

Answer: Yes. But … let me add to that answer by saying two things.

1. While God does judge sin, he would rather show mercy.

2. We don’t want a God who isn’t angered by injustice.