The Pulpit Commentary — Amos — Section 187

Ver. 9.-Bifting and salvation. If any prediction could convince the reader of the Old Testament that the prophets spoke and wrote under a supernatural inspiration, surely this prediction must possess this virtue. 'l'he history of Israel, not only in times immediately following upon those of Amos, but throughout the centuries which have since elapsed, is just a fulfilment of this language. How picturesquely and forcibly is the truth presented under this similitude, so natural as employed by one familiar with all the processes connected with husbandry I I. THE PROVIDENTIAL SIFTING APPOINTED FOB THE HOUSE OF IBRAEL. l. It has been determined by the Divine Ruler and Lord. "I will command," says Jehovah. Men may trace the history of the Jews with the design of showing that all the events which have occurred to that people are explicable upon ordinary principles, that Israel drops into its place when marshalled by the enlightened philosopher of history. But beneath all such theory there is an explanation which satisfies the intelligence of the thoughtfn.1 and devont student of God's Word: the Lord has ordered it. 2. It has taken place in dilferent lands, and throughout lengthened periods. "Among all the nations," was the expression of the inspired prophet. The successive invasions of Palestine, the conquest of Israel and then of Judah, the captivity into the East, the 11ettlements in Assyria and in Persia, the psrtial restoration to the land of promise, the subjf'Ction of Palestine to successive conquerors, and its subjugation by the Romans, the dispersion among the Gentiles, the scattering of the sons of Israel amongst the nations, alike in the East and the West,-these are but some of the more salient points in a hiatory the most remarkable, the most romantic, and yet the most painful, in the annals of mankind. 3. It bas been ordained for a purpose of a moral and beneficial character. Sifting is for the purpose of separating the chaff and refuse from the pure grain. A proceBB of sifting, winnowing, tribulation (in the literal meaning of that word), has been going on throughout the ages. Even yet the purposes of God are very partially accomplished, for the process is continued; nor is there any sign of its i=ediate termination. II. TRE DIVINE PRESERVATION OF THOSE BVBJE<n'ED TO THIS TRIAL. Not a grain shall drop out of sight and perish. It is a wonderful paradox-sifting and salvation, trial and protection, scattering and gathering, alike experienced. Yet the marvellous 11tory of the chosen people supports to the letter this ancient representation. It is the 011, IX, 1-15.] THE BOOK OF AMOS. 189