“Seek good, and not evil, that you may live; and so the Lord, the God of hosts, will be with you, as you have said. Hate evil, and love good, and establish justice in the gate;” (Amos 5:14-15a)
The Lord used Amos to warn the people of Israel about the tragedy that would soon befall them. He enumerated their specific covenant violations, which included idolatry, sexual immorality as well as the misuse of the Mosaic Law to exploit and defraud the poor and needy. They were taking bribes and showing favoritism that deprived many, mostly the poor, of justice. In addition, they engaged in lying, cheating and theft of property. Amos let them know quite openly that they did not know God or appreciate His power. He called on them to seek justice and mercy for all or face the consequences.
These words of Amos serve to remind all Christians that the Lord desires we seek social justice for those who are poor, oppressed and cannot defend themselves. The church must work to ensure that the government does not show favoritism to any and treats all with justice and equality. In addition the church must lead the way in providing charity and aid to those in need. This also means that we as individual believers should seek racial and ethnic harmony and not deprive any human being of respect and fair treatment. After all, the church is a community where all are equal in Christ. Thus believers should promote equality, acceptance, and respect for all human beings regardless of race, gender or ethnic origin or even their particular sin or sins. This does not mean that the church must condone, ignore or redefine sin. There must be a balance of law and gospel. If the church does not speak out against immorality, people will never know they need a savior. They will remain comfortable in their sins doing what is right in their own opinion. Consequently, the church is the place where all may find God’s love and mercy. Love confronts sin but also offers forgiveness and mercy for those who seek it.