Amos 1:9-10 - National accountability
Scripture:
Amos 1:9-10
9 Thus says the Lord,
"For three transgressions of Tyre and for four
I will not revoke its punishment,
Because they delivered up an entire population to Edom
And did not remember the covenant of brotherhood.
10 "So I will send fire upon the wall of Tyre
And it will consume her citadels."
NASU
Thoughts:
In this first chapter of Amos, various nations are receiving pronouncements of judgment through the prophet Amos, each nation being identified by its capitol or a large city within its boundaries. Tyre was a prominent city of Phoenicia. What was their sin? They violated a covenant with another people, and handed them over to the nation of Edom (verse 9). This prophecy against them (verse 10) was fulfilled when Alexander the Great conquered the city in 332 B.C. utterly destroying it.
Looking at this from a broader vantage point, the accountability of nations before God is seen. God does intervene in history and even in our times:
Psalm 66:7
7 He rules by His might forever;
His eyes keep watch on the nations;
Let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah.
NASU
Clearly this impacts all the people of a nation. The Bible offers practical advice to the Christian with regards to the government they find themselves under, prayer:
1 Timothy 2:1-2
2 First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, 2 for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity.
NASU
A Christian is not limited to only praying, but this is the most clear direction, and therefore the most important. For nations do fall under God's judgment. When that judgment comes, believers will generally not be immune from the effects of it.
Prayer:
Lord, I pray for the leaders of my nation. Guide them in their actions, even those who do not know You. And for those who do not, I pray that they will come to know You as Savior.
Amen
posted by Steve @ 5:36 PM
