A FAMINE FOR THE WORD OF GOD

                                                           Amos 8:11

  Introduction

      A.  About 750 B.C., a farmer and shepherd by the name of Amos was called by God

            to be a prophet.  Consider background information

      B.  In Amos 8:11, Amos prophesied an unusual famine:

            1.  “Not a famine of bread,

            2.  Not a thirst for water,

            3.  But (a famine) of hearing the words of the Lord.”

      C.  There is also a famine for the word of God today, and it is similar to the famine

            prophesied by Amos.

  Body

       I.  Similarities

           A.  A life of luxury,  Amos 6:1-8

                 1.  Amos’ day:

                 2.  Today:

           B.  Moral corruption,  Amos 2:6-8

                 1.  Amos’ day:

       

                 2.  Today:

           C.  Religious  corruption  Amos 8:4

                 1.  Amos’ day:

                 2.  Today:

      II.  What can be done to end the famine for God’s word? (For those who have a heart

            for God)    

           A.  First, we must have an appreciation for God’s word.  2 Timothy 3:16-17

                

                 1.  The source of scripture,  2 Timothy 3:16

                 2.  The power of God’s word  James, 1:17; John 17:17; 2 Timothy 3:16-17;

                      

                 3.  The standard by which we will be judged.  John 12:48

            B. We must feed on God’s word.  1 Peter 2:1-3; Hebrews 6:1-2

       

                 Suggestions: 1) Read and study a portion on a regular basis starting with Acts,

                 2) purchase “A Commentary On The New Testament” by B.W. Johnson, 3)

                 after Acts, read one of the Gospels, 4) study outline of morning lesson, 5)

                 meditate on God’s word and pray for understanding, 6) keep in mind that you

                 are to mature spiritually, and 7)  ask God for a receptive and obedient heart.

Conclusion:  A challenge:

.