Topical Encyclopedia
Biblical Reference: The Vision of the Plumb Line is found in the Book of Amos, specifically in
Amos 7:7-9. This vision is one of several prophetic visions given to Amos, a shepherd from Tekoa, who was called by God to prophesy to the Northern Kingdom of Israel during the reign of Jeroboam II.
Context and Background: Amos was a prophet during a time of relative peace and prosperity in Israel, yet it was also a period marked by social injustice, idolatry, and moral decay. The Northern Kingdom, though outwardly successful, was spiritually bankrupt, and Amos was sent by God to deliver a message of impending judgment due to the nation's unfaithfulness.
The Vision Described: In
Amos 7:7-9 , the vision is described as follows:
"This is what He showed me: The Lord was standing by a wall true to plumb, with a plumb line in His hand. 'Amos, what do you see?' asked the Lord. 'A plumb line,' I replied. Then the Lord said, 'Behold, I am setting a plumb line among My people Israel; I will no longer spare them: the high places of Isaac will be deserted, and the sanctuaries of Israel will be laid waste; I will rise up against the house of Jeroboam with My sword.'"
Symbolism of the Plumb Line: The plumb line is a tool used by builders to ensure that structures are vertically true. In this vision, the plumb line symbolizes God's standard of righteousness and justice. By setting a plumb line among His people, God is measuring Israel against His divine standards. The imagery suggests that Israel is found to be crooked and out of alignment with God's will.
Implications of the Vision: The vision indicates that God is about to execute judgment on Israel. The "high places of Isaac" and the "sanctuaries of Israel" refer to the centers of idolatrous worship that had proliferated throughout the land. God's declaration that He "will no longer spare them" underscores the severity of the impending judgment. The mention of the "house of Jeroboam" signifies that the ruling dynasty, which had led the nation into sin, would face divine retribution.
Theological Themes: 1.
Divine Justice: The vision emphasizes God's justice and His intolerance of sin. Despite Israel's outward prosperity, their spiritual corruption necessitates divine intervention.
2.
Prophetic Warning: Amos's vision serves as a warning to the people of Israel, calling them to repentance and a return to covenant faithfulness. It highlights the role of prophets as God's messengers who reveal His standards and intentions.
3.
Moral Accountability: The plumb line represents the moral and ethical standards by which God holds His people accountable. It serves as a reminder that God's people are called to live in accordance with His righteousness.
Historical Outcome: The prophecy of Amos was fulfilled when the Assyrian Empire conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel in 722 B.C. The destruction of the high places and sanctuaries, as well as the downfall of the ruling house, came to pass as a result of Israel's persistent disobedience and idolatry.
Relevance for Today: The Vision of the Plumb Line continues to resonate as a call for individuals and communities to examine their lives against God's standards. It serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning one's life with divine principles and the consequences of straying from them.