You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.
Amos 3:2 is a word spoken against the children of Israel, against the whole family brought up from the land of Egypt. To know only Israel of all the families of the earth is a special relationship of gracious enlightenment. That enlightenment was given when Israel was brought out of Egypt under Christ Himself enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, directing their movements as shade from heat by day and light in darkness by night.
That privilege did not excuse wrongdoing but made them accountable, so because of it God would punish and visit judgment upon them for all their iniquities. The punishment came because they persisted in sin without repentance. The same accountability rests on those in 1898 who have been just as graciously enlightened when they misrepresent God by human wisdom in word, spirit, and character. Even so, the work of advancing the truth must go forth in His strength.
Amos 3:2 is a word spoken against the children of Israel, against the whole family brought up from the land of Egypt. To know only Israel of all the families of the earth is a special relationship of gracious enlightenment. That enlightenment was given when Israel was brought out of Egypt under Christ Himself enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, directing their movements as shade from heat by day and light in darkness by night.
That privilege did not excuse wrongdoing but made them accountable, so because of it God would punish and visit judgment upon them for all their iniquities. The punishment came because they persisted in sin without repentance. The same accountability rests on those in 1898 who have been just as graciously enlightened when they misrepresent God by human wisdom in word, spirit, and character. Even so, the work of advancing the truth must go forth in His strength.