Amos 9:7-10

JEHOVAH NOT A RESPECTER OF PERSONS, Amos 9:7-10.

Once before (Amos 3:1-2) Amos attempted to correct the misapprehension that Jehovah was partial to Israel, and that his choice of the nation could be regarded as a guarantee of its safety (see introductory remarks on Amos 3:1 to Amos 4:3). A false confidence, based upon this misapprehension, might destroy the effect of the message in Amos 9:1-6. To avoid this the prophet emphasizes once more the truth that Jehovah is interested in all the nations of the earth, and that any special favors granted to the Israelites must have their justification in the latter’s moral superiority. Since they have shown themselves a “sinful kingdom” they are unworthy of special favors; on the contrary, Jehovah is compelled to proceed against them in judgment. Nevertheless, he will “not utterly” destroy them; a faithful remnant will be preserved.