Amos 4:12 (KJV)
Therefore thus will I do unto thee, O Israel: and because I will do this unto thee, prepare to meet thy God, O Israel.
Though I think the common understanding of this text is as a warning, John Gill is of the opinion that it could be a promise. "But I rather think the words are a promise or intimation of doing something to Israel in a way of special grace and kindness,"
It is, I think, important to understand the context of Israel. They are the people chosen by God to be an example of His love and work in humanity. Israel, in particular, is an example of those who, though loved and chosen, turned their backs on God. But they are just an example. What God does in Israel is not exclusive to them.
That said, Gill goes on, "the Messiah that was then to come was God, and so, equal to the work of redemption and salvation He was to do."
Despite and regardless of the sins of men and the ultimate failures of their professions, Jesus is equal to the task. We, who are honest about our sin, know we could never measure up and deserve the grace of God, salvation, and reconciliation with Him. But what God has in store for the redeemed is so much better than being forgiven. Like the prodigal, His plan for us is elevation – to be joint heirs with Jesus.
· "Prepare to meet thy God" could be in the sense of getting ready for judgment.
· "Prepare to meet thy God" might be in the sense of expecting celebration.
Once again, John Gill writes, "to be met with the utmost joy and pleasure."
What a meeting that will be!
#DivinePromise #ChosenPeople #GraceAndKindness #PrepareToMeetThyGod #RedemptionAndReconciliation
A Warning or Promise?: Prepare to Meet Thy God
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