Three faces of hope: 1 Amos 9:11–12 and Acts 15:12–19

Abstract

This sermon explores the expansive role of hope found in three stages of the life and afterlife of Amos 9:11–12. The passage begins as editorial expansion of the book of Amos which offers a message of hope beyond judgment to a new audience during the exilic period. It expresses hope for a restored kingdom—a reconquest of territory lost. In a second stage, the Septuagint attests to a bigger promise—one in which all humanity seeks the LORD. Finally, in one of the pivotal scenes of the mission of the early church, James in Acts 15 draws upon the Septuagint promise, but expands it further still so that Amos 9:11–12 becomes the scriptural foundation for his support of Paul’s vision of the universal mission of the church extended to the Gentiles. These three faces of hope, each delivered in a new context, demonstrates how tradition open to the spirit of God adapts the word of God in new settings.