Joel, Amos & Obadiah

Teacher: Won Huh

Prophets Joel, Amos and Obadiah delivered God’s messages to Judah, Israel and Edom, respectively. We’ll briefly look at Joel and Obadiah but spend most of our time in Amos.

Joel uses the recent devastating plague of locusts as a vivid warning of the power of God’s coming judgment and a clear appeal to run to the Lord for mercy.

Obadiah’s message speaks about God's sovereignty over all nations, whether they acknowledge His sovereignty or not. Edom will be punished for their cruelty against their neighbor and relative.

Amos warned Israel that if they did not repent and reform, their idolatry and social injustice would destroy the nation. His message can be summarized by “Let justice run down like water, and righteousness like a mighty stream” Amos 5:24.

• As you read Amos, think of why God had to withdraw His promises of protection and blessings described in Deuteronomy and allow the curses to fall on them.
• What were God’s accusations against Israel? Could their failings be summarized by their failure to love God and love their neighbors?
• How can the God of love allow such devastation?
• Look for the messages of hope, mercy and grace amid the strong warnings.

Listen to the book of Joel from BibleGateway: ESV, KJV, MSG, NIV, NKJV

Short Outline of the Book of Joel from the English Standard Version:

• The plague of locusts (1:1 – 2:17)
• Promises of restoration (2:18-27)
• The day of the Lord (2:28 – 3:21)

Listen to the book of Amos from BibleGateway: ESV, KJV, MSG, NIV, NKJV

Short Outline of the Book of Amos from the English Standard Version:

• Judgment on Israel’s neighbors (1:1 – 2:5)
• Judgment on Israel (2:6 – 6:14)
• Five visions (7:1 – 9:15)

Listen to the book of Obadiah from BibleGateway: ESV, KJV, MSG, NIV, NKJV

Short Outline of the Book of Obadiah from the English Standard Version:

• The punishment of Edom (1:1-14)
• The day of the Lord (1:15-21)