January 13, 2013

Amos 1:1-4:13

The Context

Check out this overview of the book of Amos: http://msb.to/c/HCSB-SB?/6/1834[917]!/4/1:0

The Target

If you are using the Discovery Guide I suggest you modify the main question at the top of page 49. I believe the following statement better characterizes the target you want to hit at the end of the session. Try to design your plan around hitting this target.

Those who mistreat others reveal by their actions that they do not have a right relationship with God and that they stand under God's judgment.

(ETB Leader Guide, p76)

Class Discussion Options

Amos 1:1-2

If you were Israel, would you listen to someone who tended sheep and grew sycamore figs for a living (see Amos 7:14)? How does that compare to who we are willing to listen to today?
Why didn’t God use someone who was more prevalent or prestigious?
Why would Amos even believe that he could speak to all Israel?
What were the qualities that made him stand out as being qualified? (i.e. obedience and he walked with God).

Amos 2:6-8

Identify ways people are mistreated today. In what ways has the church or individual believers contributed to this mistreatment?

Privately consider some people you have treated unjustly. What steps should you take to correct the situations?

Amos 3:6-8

Is “I didn’t know” a legitimate excuse?

How does God communicate His warnings today?

Amos 3:13-15
Make the following statements and discuss how these illustrate a sense of false security:

“The government didn’t provide me with money to rebuild.”

“Why did my taxes go up?”

“I want what I deserve.”

“I don’t care how people will be hurt as long as I accomplish my goals."

Hitting the Target Options

Ask the following question: "What did we see from God's indictment of Israel about how He expects His people to live? Review the list of ways in which Israel chose to treat people and God. Ask the group to silently evaluate if they are guilty of anything listed. Brainstorm specific ways learners can love God and others more completely and compassionately. Urge learners to choose one way they will love God and others in a deeper way this week. (based on ETB Leader Guide, "Get to the Point," page 83).

Ask, "What kind of lifestyle does God expect of His people? How can we know how we're doing in living up to God's standards?" Explain how God's expectations for His people can be summed up with two commands: love God with all your heart and love others like you love yourself. Personal Challenge: Do a self-check. Are there areas of life where you're meeting God's expectations? Are there areas where you need to make changes? (based on QuickSource “Conclusion” on page 34) 

Heads Up
Read chapters 1-3 in order to gain the entire scope of Israel’s sin.
The Discovery Guide provides a great illustration regarding accountability:

"Whether you think about it or not, every time you pull out of the driveway in your car, you are being held accountable for every traffic law in your state.” Application:  When we make a commitment to Christ we are accountable for every action. (page 52)