The focus of Amos’s woes was to show the Israelites where they had misplaced their confidence. They were surprised to hear Amos’s words of judgment because they were busy with all the religious rituals that God demanded and they were enjoying peace and prosperity. Amos shows them that trust in these things will not spare them from judgment and God requires his people to love justice and righteousness. Given the focus of Amos, your sermon should likewise address misplaced confidence among present-day Christians. You should emphasize how a true faith becomes evident in works and that if we trust God, then we must promote righteousness and justice. Be careful that you do not give the impression that our works are what make us right with God. Remember, our works are a response to God’s grace and not the basis of it.
18 Malheur à ceux qui désirent le jour de l'Eternel! Qu'attendez-vous du jour de l'Eternel? Il sera ténèbres et non lumière.