Theory question 104
True Religion and Social Justice(a) I am no prophet, nor a prophet's son; but I am a herdsman and a dresser of sycamore trees…. Give an account of the events that led to this statement. (b) Identify three reasons for which people complain about the activities of some men of God today.
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(a) Amos, a shepherd of Tekoa, prophesied at Bethel against Israel's sins (Amos 1:1; 7:10).
In a vision of a plumb line he announced that the sanctuaries would be laid waste and the house of Jeroboam fall by the sword (Amos 7:7-9).
Amaziah, priest of Bethel, told King Jeroboam that Amos had conspired against him (Amos 7:10-11).
Amaziah told Amos to flee to Judah, eat bread and prophesy there, never again at Bethel, the king's sanctuary (Amos 7:12-13).
Amos replied with these words: the Lord took him from the flock and sent him to Israel (Amos 7:14-15).
He then prophesied disaster on Amaziah's family and exile for Israel (Amos 7:16-17).
(b) Any three: extorting money; false prophecies; immoral behaviour; fake miracles; living in luxury from members' offerings; involvement in politics for gain; causing division.
Narrate Amos 7:10-17, then three reasons.