But let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.
What does Amos 5:24 mean?
Woe to those that desire the day of the Lord's judgments, that wish for times of war and confusion; as some who long for changes, hoping to rise upon the ruins of their country!
Key themes
Commentary on Amos 5:24
But - (And) let judgment run down (Literally, "roll" English margin) "like water." The duties of either table include both; since there is no true love for man without the love of God, nor any real love or duty to God without the love of man. People will exchange their sins for other sins. They will not break them off unless they be converted to God. But the first outward step in conversion, is to break off sin.
Key words
- judgment
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But let judgments run down as waters,.
- waters
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But let judgments run down as waters,.
Context in Amos 5
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Amos 5 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as visions of judgment. Amos is a relentless prophetic book of justice, judgment, false worship, and the remnant hope that survives divine shaking. Read this chapter with the wider themes of justice, false worship, and judgment in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
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Bible verses about justice and mercy
Key texts on public righteousness, neighbor-love, social ethics, compassion, and the prophetic refusal to separate worship from justice.
Who quoted Amos 5:24?
Find out who used Amos 5:24 in their speeches and writings. Which famous people quoted Amos 5:24?
Martin Luther King Jr. used Amos 5:24 in I Have a Dream.
Jimmy Carter used Amos 5:24 in Remarks at the 100th Anniversary Luncheon of the Los Angeles County Bar Association in Los Angeles, California.
Barack Obama used Amos 5:24 in Remarks During a Panel Discussion at the Catholic-Evangelical Leadership Summit on Overcoming Poverty at Georgetown University.
Quotes found on Wikiquote (match for «justice roll down like waters»):