In what ways can we apply Amos' courage in our daily witness for Christ? Setting the scene Amos 7:16: “Now therefore hear the word of the LORD: You say, ‘Do not prophesy against Israel, and do not preach against the house of Isaac.’ ” Amaziah tried to muzzle Amos, yet the shepherd-prophet kept speaking exactly what God told him. His steadfastness lights a path for our own witness. Courage anchored in God’s call • Amos spoke because the LORD sent him (7:15). • Our authority to share Christ rests on the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). • When we remember Who commissioned us, fear of people shrinks. Truth over popularity • Amos risked royal displeasure; we may risk social rejection. • Galatians 1:10: “If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” • Measure words by faithfulness to Scripture, not by applause. Speaking when told to be silent • Amaziah: “Do not prophesy.” The culture often says, “Keep faith private.” • Acts 4:19-20—Peter and John refuse gag orders: “We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” • We obey civil authorities (Romans 13:1) unless they demand disobedience to God; then we echo Amos: “Hear the word of the LORD.” Relying on the Word, not our status • Amos had no priestly pedigree; the power lay in God’s message. • 1 Corinthians 1:27-29—God chooses the weak to shame the strong. Practical takeaways: – Trust Scripture’s sufficiency; quote it plainly. – Share personal testimony, but center on God’s Word as the final authority. Living the message before speaking it • Amos’ life matched his words; integrity amplifies witness. • Philippians 2:15—“shine as lights in the world.” Daily steps: – Consistent prayer and repentance. – Ethical choices at work and home. – Compassionate deeds backing verbal proclamation. Strengthened by the Spirit • 2 Timothy 1:7—“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” • Ask the Spirit for boldness as Paul did (Ephesians 6:19-20). Encouragement from Christ Himself • Matthew 10:32—“Everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father in heaven.” • The Savior who stood silent before Pilate now stands with us when we speak. Snapshot applications for today – Share a verse on social media even if followers scoff. – Offer to pray for a co-worker when they’re hurting. – Gently but clearly explain the gospel when moral topics arise. – Support missionaries and persecuted believers who mirror Amos’ courage. Following Amos, we refuse silence imposed by culture, confident that the same unchanging Lord speaks through His Word today. |
    |