Lowell Grisham in his commentary on Nov. 4’s Opinion page makes the assertion that the Old Testament prophet Amos in Chapter 6: 4-7 was chastising government officials and business elites, accusing them of “permitting conditions of extreme income inequality” and that “their greed and their participation in an economic system that allowed a few to enjoy extravagant luxuries while masses lived in poverty would provoke disaster - and God’s judgment.”
Really, is that what thoseverses in the Bible are saying?
When I read Amos Chapters 5, 6, and 7, not just four verses of Chapter 6 taken out of context; I see that Amos is warning a governing class, who also happen to be the religious rulers, not “business elites.” In Amos’ time Israel was a prosperous nation, much like America today. These rulers were not grateful for the Lord’s blessings and not sorry for turning away from the Lord, but were instead counting on their high positions to save the country from judgment.
“Those that dwelt in Israelthought that was honour and protection enough for them” (from Matthew Henry’s Commentary on Amos 6).
Nowhere does Amos talk about income disparities threatening the economy of Israel. He is warning the nation to turn back to the Lord and His salvation.
Doesn’t this sound like our nation today? The USA is the most blessed and richest nation on earth, but have we turned with thanksgiving to Him who so blessed us? Have we turned in repentance for all our mistakes? No, instead we have removed Godfrom our institutions and public places in the name of “political correctness.” We have said no to God, we can solve our own problems, we don’t need Him!
According to Amos then, what should we expect here in America? God’s judgment.
What then should we do? Amos in Chapter 5, Verse 4 says tells us: “Now this is what the LORD says to the family of Israel: ‘Come back to me and live!’” (New Living Translation)
CRAIG HANSON
Bella Vista
Opinion, Pages 5 on 11/07/2012