Amos 3 is a chapter in the book of Amos, a prophet of Israel during the eighth century BC. This chapter begins with the declaration that the Lord has chosen Israel as His people, and because of this special relationship, He holds them accountable for their actions. Amos emphasizes that God does not bring calamity upon a nation without first revealing it to His prophets. The prophet then proceeds to warn of the impending judgment that will befall the people of Israel due to their disobedience and oppression of the poor and needy.
Amos presents a series of rhetorical questions to make the Israelites reflect on the cause-and-effect relationship between their actions and the consequences that will follow. He asks if two people can walk together without agreement or if a lion roars in the forest without having caught its prey. In the same way, the impending judgment on Israel is a result of their transgressions.
The chapter concludes with a proclamation of judgment against the luxurious dwellings and idolatrous altars of Israel. Amos foretells the destruction of these places and the exile of the people, highlighting the severity of the judgment that awaits them.