1. Hear this word (1-6)

Israel's economy and political situation looked promising. But Amos lamented Israel's future. The nation would fall, never to rise again. The LORD would allow the military to be decimated in battle. Rather than seek help from idols in Bethel, Gilgal, and Beersheba, the LORD encouraged his people to seek him and live. Otherwise disaster would come. Let us not be deceived by temporary, seemingly good circumstances or idols but seek the LORD and live.

2. The times are evil (7-13)

The Israelites saw good in their wealth and comfortable life but the LORD saw evil. Injustice and unrighteousness were the norm. The Israelites took advantage of the poor. They even taxed their straw and the grain they needed to survive. Innocent people were oppressed. Truth was hated. Almighty God, who made the constellations and sent the flood in Noah's time, would destroy them.