December 11
Amos 4:1-6:14
Revelation 2:18-3:6
Psalm 130:1-8
Proverbs 29:21-22
Amos 4:2 – Not much has changed between ancient Egyptian fish hooks and today’s fish hooks.
Amos 4:6 – “Cleanness of teeth” is not referring to good dental care, but is part of the “sarcasm” of this passage. Note the invitation to transgression in Amos 4:4, a leavened sacrifice in Amos 4:5, want of bread in Amos 4:6, and a lack of water in Amos 4:7. It seems likely that the cleanness of teeth refers to lack of eating.
Amos 4:7 – Notice God’s control of weather. Jesus confirmed in Matthew 5:45 that the Father in Heaven “sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” Notice the point God made – withholding rain from one city, to make people go to another city. They would go long distances for water, but no distance for God (Amos 4:8). Yes God is the former of mountains, and the creator of wind (Amos 4:13).
Amos 5:4 – “Seek ye me” is repeated in Amos 5:6, Amos 5:8. Note he contrasts this with their rituals (Amos 5:21).
Amos 5:24 – This verse has been quoted by such people as Martin Luther King Jr and former FBI Director James Comey. However, usually the context isn’t brought out – people with one foot in worship of Yahweh (Amos 5:22), and one foot in the worship of Moloch (Amos 5:26). If you’re going to use this verse, you better be committed to the pro-life cause.
Amos 6:7 – The first captives are the ones who are enjoying the luxury of the day.
Revelation 2:20 – The last recorded words of Jesus and we’re being warned about tolerance. The buzzword of today is the antithesis of commitment to Christ.
Revelation 2:23 – When we receive our works, what will you get?
Revelation 3:5 – Who are the overcomers? In Romans 8:37 it’s identified as us – the more than conquerors. But it’s nothing that we have done, but “through him that loved us.” We can overcome thru His love! 1 John 4:4 reminds us that we have overcome, because “greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.”
Psalm 130:5 – This year we’ve been hoping in His Word! Keep waiting for the LORD!
Proverbs 29:21 – The importance of mentorship – speaking of if you haven’t seen The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry, you’re missing a great movie.
