Judgment is coming for the surrounding nations (1:1-2:5)
Being judged for repeated sin…
The surrounding nations repeatedly oppressed people in order to get what they wanted
Judgment is coming for God’s people (2:6-16)
Israel would be judged for repeated sin, also oppressing the needy (2:6-8, 4:1, 5:10-13, 8:4-6)
They are reminded that they were at one time the needy (2:9-12)
The judgment is described (2:13-16)
- Certain (3:3-8)
- Significant (3:12)
- Severe (4:2-3)
- Fair (4:6-12)
Not caring for the needy is a big deal, but what it reveals is the bigger deal
They are following after religion without following after God.
Their religious activity became a substitute for righteousness
5:21-24 – Justice cannot exist without righteousness, and righteousness cannot exist with justice
The way people live and behave outside of church is as much a part of worship as the singing they do in church
God is clear: your focus on the self-righteous legalistic lifestyle proves you don’t get it.
We must pursue pure religion, as found in James 1:27 – filled with justice (compassion for those who can NOT repay you) and righteousness (not a checklist, but living a life marked by faithfulness and integrity no matter what day of the week)
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