When the prophecies in this book were delivered to Israel, the land and people of Israel were experiencing great prosperity. They were at a high point in their economic and political life. But they were at a low point in their relationship with God. In fact, they were no better than the pagan nations around them. Amos tells them so.
In the first 2 chapters, Amos lays out the sins of the pagan nations. Notice that the indictment of each nation begins the same way: "For three sins of Damascus, even four, I will not turn back my wrath. Because she. . ." Amos then describes the charges against the nation. He charges Damascus, then Gaza, then Tyre, then Edom, then Ammon, then Moab, and then, without missing a beat, charges Judah and Israel as well. The clear message is this: Judah and Israel are just like the other nations. And they are under condemnation too.
Amos next lays out the detailed case against Israel, focusing attention on the social and economic injustice of the people. He announces their coming exile and describes visions of divine retribution. The judgment section of the book ends with these words: "'For I will give the command, and I will shake the house of Israel among all the nations as grain is shaken in a sieve, and not a pebble will reach the ground. All the sinners among my people will die by the sword, all those who say 'Disaster will not overtake or meet us.'" (Amos 9:9-10)
But because of God's covenant with David, there will be restoration for the land and God's people. The book ends with the sure hope of God's faithfulness to restore David's reign and establish his kingdom for ever.
