Amos 1
BBCAmos 1:1
I. THE THREATENED JUDGMENTS ON EIGHT NATIONS (Chaps. 12) A. Introductory (1:1, 2) In his first two chapters, Amos pronounces judgment against eight nations. Each pronouncement of judgment is introduced by the words, “For three transgressions . . . and for four.” Baxter explains this Hebrew idiom for us: The phrase is not to be taken arithmetically, to mean a literal three and then four, but idiomatically, as meaning that the measure was full, and more than full; the sin of these people had overreached itself; or, to put it in an allowable bit of modern slang, they had “gone one too many,” they had “tipped the scale.”
Amos 1:3
B. Damascus (1:3-5) 1:3-5 The first threat is against Damascus, the chief city-state of Syria. The Syrians had fought against the two and one-half tribes east of the Jordan (Gilead), and had apparently been extremely barbarous and cruel (suggested by implements of iron). The punishment for the people of Syria was to be carried away captive to Kir.
Amos 1:6
C. Gaza (1:6-8)The second is against Gaza, where the Philistines handed over captive Israelites to the cruel Edomites. Other Philistine centers to be punished are Ashdod, Ashkelon, and Ekron. The result would be that the remnant of the Philistines would perish.
Amos 1:9
D. Tyre (1:9, 10)The third is against Tyre. The Tyrians also delivered up captives to Edom and broke a treaty of brotherhood with Israel. “Fire” is also predicted for Tyre’s palaces.
Amos 1:11
E. Edom (1:11, 12)The fourth is against Edom. The Edomites were perpetual and cruel enemies of their brothers (Esau was a brother of Jacob). Because of their merciless dealings and implacable hatred, they would receive a fitting punishment upon the cities of Teman and Bozrah.
Amos 1:13
F. Ammon (1:13-15)The fifth is against Ammon. The Ammonites committed terrible atrocities in conquering portions of the land of Gilead. They even ripped open pregnant women of Gilead in their bloody cruelty. Both king and princes were destined to captivity, fire, and a tempestuous battle.