How does Amos 5:24 connect with Jesus' teachings on justice and mercy? The Prophetic Cry: Amos 5:24 “But let justice roll on like a river, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” — Amos 5:24 • In Amos’ day, outward worship was flourishing, but hearts were hard. • God demanded justice (mishpat) and righteousness (tsedaqah) as continual, life-giving currents, not sporadic religious drops. Where Jesus Picks Up the Theme • Matthew 23:23: “You have neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness.” • Luke 11:42: “You neglect justice and the love of God.” • Matthew 9:13 (quoting Hosea 6:6): “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” • Jesus echoes Amos: authentic devotion is measured by relentless justice and mercy, not ritual precision. Shared Vocabulary, Shared Heart Amos 5:24 " Jesus’ Teaching ---------------------------------"--------------------------------------------- Justice (mishpat) " “justice, mercy, and faithfulness” (Matthew 23:23) Righteousness (tsedaqah) " “love of God” expressed in right actions (Luke 11:42) Rolling river / ever-flowing " Continuous practice, not occasional token acts Examples from Jesus’ Ministry • Luke 4:18-19: Proclaimed good news to the poor, freedom to captives, sight to the blind—justice in action. • John 8:3-11: Defended the adulterous woman; upheld law’s righteousness yet extended mercy. • Mark 10:46-52: Restored Bartimaeus’ sight, honoring the vulnerable. • Feeding multitudes (Mark 6:30-44): Provided for physical need, showcasing compassionate justice. The Cross: Justice and Mercy Kiss • Romans 3:26: God is “just and the One who justifies” those who believe in Jesus. • At Calvary, divine justice against sin is satisfied, and mercy is freely offered—perfectly embodying Amos’ river and stream. Living It Out Today • Examine worship: do congregational songs flow into Monday-through-Saturday justice? • Guard against selective obedience—cultivate both doctrinal fidelity and practical mercy. • Serve the vulnerable: widows, orphans, unborn, impoverished (James 1:27; 2:13). • Let every sphere—family, workplace, civic engagement—be a channel where God’s justice and mercy keep rolling. |
    |