Restoration of Israel
February 7, 2020
Commentary
The prophet Amos closes his book on a note of hope, describing a rebirth for the nation of Israel (vv. 11-15). God had promised to judge His people, but He did not intend to destroy them. In the future He would “restore David’s fallen tent,” “repair its broken places,” “restore its ruins,” and “build it as it used to be” (v. 11). The mention of David implies a reunification with the southern kingdom, and it also brings to mind Jesus, the son of David, the Messiah. This time of blessing will be not only for Israel, but also for Edom and all the nations who are called by God’s name. This might seem impossible, but the Lord says He will do this (v. 12).
Amos predicted a time of unparalleled prosperity for Israel in their own land. He foresaw a harvest so abundant that “the reaper will be overtaken by the plowman and the planter by the one treading grapes” (v. 13). Normally the plowman worked in October and November and the reaper in March or April. In the future the harvest will be so great the reaper will not finish before the plowman begins.
The destruction message of (Amos 5:11) stands in contrast to the restoration message of (v. 14). In the future, Israelites will be able to plant vineyards and drink the wine they produce themselves. They will plant gardens and be able to eat the produce. Amos says the restoration of Israel is complete and permanent. God’s judgments have a redemptive purpose in His people. God will plant them in their land, and they will never again be uprooted (v. 15).
Application
Since I was saved Christ has brought many changes into my life. Where I once had no purpose, He has brought new life and real purpose. I thank Him for His transforming work in my life.
Amos 9:11– 15 (NET)
11 “In that day I will rebuild the collapsing hut of David. I will seal its gaps, repair its ruins, and restore it to what it was like in days gone by.
12 As a result they will conquer those left in Edom and all the nations subject to my rule.” The Lord, who is about to do this, is speaking.
13 “Be sure of this, the time is coming,” says the Lord, “when the plowman will catch up to the reaper, and the one who stomps the grapes will overtake the planter. Juice will run down the slopes; it will flow down all the hillsides.
14 I will bring back my people, Israel; they will rebuild the cities lying in rubble and settle down. They will plant vineyards and drink the wine they produce; they will grow orchards and eat the fruit they produce.
15 I will plant them on their land, and they will never again be uprooted from the land I have given them,” says the Lord your God.
Illustration: Deacon Who Said we Are Not an Organized Religion
As a pastor I try to be creative in teaching my deacons how to be ready to give an answer for the hope that is in us, but I am not the most tidy leader. One of my deacons was trying to invite a man to our church to experience Jesus. The man refuse saying that he didn’t have much to do with ’organized religion’. “O, that’s not a problem at our church”, the deacon answered. “One look at our pastor’s desk and you will see that we are not an organized religion!” (Source Unknown, Lou Nicholes – Missionary/Author).