Have you ever gone out of your way to do something nice for someone only to have that person reject you and what you offered? Israel rejected the God who freed them from Egyptian bondage and gave them the land of promise (see Amos 2:9–10). Amos 4 tells what the Lord said He would do to get Israel to “return” to Him. Look for what He said as you read.
Understanding the Scriptures
Amos 4
| Kine of Bashan (v. 1) | Literally, cows of an area very rich in vegetation; symbolically, wealthy women who care only for themselves | |
| Beth-el, Gilgal (v. 4) | Places of worship that had become corrupted | |
| Leaven (v. 5) | Yeast (Offering leavened bread with burnt offerings was forbidden.) | |
| Proclaim and publish the free offerings (v. 5) | A comment about Israel’s righteousness since they liked the outward show of religion but did not want to be obedient to God’s commandments | |
| For this liketh you (v. 5) | You like to do this | |
| Cleanness of teeth, want of bread (v. 6) | Famine | |
| Blasting and mildew (v. 9) | Diseases that destroy crops | |
| Pestilence (v. 10) | A terrible disease | |
| Firebrand (v. 11) | Burning stick |
Amos 4:2—How Would the Lord Take Away His People with “Hooks” and “Fishhooks”?
The Assyrians were known for putting hooks through the lips, noses, or cheeks of their enemies and linking them to one another with a chain. Linking captives made them easy to guard and “herd” away to captivity.
Studying the Scriptures
Do activity A as you study Amos 4.
How Would This Work?
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1.
In Amos 4:6–11, the Lord explained what He had done to persuade Israel to return to Him. Make a list of what He said.
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2.
How do you think the Lord’s judgments could influence Israel to return to Him? (see Alma 32:13; Helaman 12:2–6).
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3.
Read Doctrine and Covenants 122:7–8 and think of some difficult times you have experienced. How can a trial become a blessing?
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