Joe: So what’s happening in Amos 5?

Bible Expert: Well, Amos 5 is a prophecy of judgment against the northern kingdom of Israel. God is warning them through Amos that he will punish them for their wickedness, and use other nations to do it.

Joe: Wow, that’s intense. What specifically did the Israelites do wrong?

Bible Expert: They had oppressed the poor, created false idols, and had been unfaithful to their covenant with God.

Joe: Whoa, that’s pretty serious. So what did God say would happen to them?

Bible Expert: God warned that he would send a famine, and he would also bring other nations to attack them. He warned that all their idols would be destroyed, and that their land would be taken away from them.

Joe: Wow, that’s pretty intense. Is there any hope for the Israelites in this chapter?

Bible Expert: Yes, Amos does offer some hope. He tells the Israelites that if they turn back to God, they will be forgiven and restored. He tells them to seek God with all their hearts, and to turn away from their wicked ways.