As a prophet, Amos has the responsibility to reveal the will and purposes of God to a stubborn people. In chapter 3, he pleads the Lord's case and shows the Israelites that the judgment coming upon them is unavoidable because they earned it through their conduct which flows from their character.
Up to this point, Israel has enjoyed a unique and special relationship with God (vs. 1-2); this is precisely why the nation is now coming in for more severe punishment. As Jesus will later say - to him whom much is given, much is expected (Luke 12:48). Israel was given much, and she has failed.
After asking a series of rhetorical questions, Amos makes the point that, when a disaster befalls a city, you can be sure that God is behind it (vs. 6). The duty of a prophet, Amos says, is to share the words of God. God does not leave Himself without a witness; He reveals to His prophets His secrets and plans.
Amos next speaks to foreigners surrounding Israel, specifically the Philistines and Egyptians. These two historic oppressors of Israel are summoned to Samaria to witness God's judgment upon the nation. Why? Amos explains: "They do not know how to do right, says the Lord, those who store up violence and robbery in their strongholds. Therefore thus says the Lord: An adversary shall surround the land, and strip you of your defense; and your strongholds shall be plundered (vs. 10-11).
Character is destiny. Israel's moral failings have brought her to this moment of justice. She will receive what she has dealt out. And Amos reveals that the judgment will be complete and thorough: "On that day I punish Israel for its transgressions, I will punish the altars of Bethel, and the horns of the altar shall be cut off and fall to the ground" (vs. 14). The horns were the part of the altar that a person could cling to for salvation and deliverance; for them to be cut off completely means there is no hope of pardon and forgiveness. Punishment is assured.
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