Let justice roll down like waters

Amos was from Judah in the south, but he prophesied in the northern kingdom of Israel during the eighth century BC. He was a contemporary of Hosea.

The prophet first speaks of God's judgment upon the greed and brutality of Israel's enemies, then declares that God will also judge the sins of Israel and Judah. Oppression of the poor by the wealthy is a particular problem. Sacrifices do not mask injustice, for God wants justice to roll down like waters and righteousness like an everflowing stream. In a confrontation with a priest at Bethel, Amos declares that he formerly tended herds and pruned sycamore trees, but God called him to prophesy in Israel. He recounts visions of locusts and fire to warn of the threat against Israel. He declares that God has measured them with a plumb line and has seen their idolatry. A vision of fruit in the late summer shows that the end is near. Nevertheless, a promise restoration concludes the book, giving hope to readers.

Amos 5:24 - Let justice roll down
Amos 7:10-17 - Call of Amos