In die Skriflig (Aug 2000)
Amos oor die ampte en die kultus (erediens): die betekenis vir vandag
Abstract
Amos on the offices and the cult: the meaning for us today In this article Amos’ attitude towards the offices of king, priest and prophet is explored against the background of the rest of the Old Testament. The conclusion arrived at is that the institutions/offices/ services should be instrumental in enabling people to function according to their individuality and as beings created in the image of God: beings created to be free and responsible. Amos does not call for the abolishment of the offices, but these offices are, however, shaken to their very foundations by Amos’ prophecies. The intended result of Amos’ words is that office bearers should realise that God called them personally; they have not merely been called institutionally. Office bearers should thus radically reform and adjust their approach. Faith should be God-centred and should have a heart for the material and spiritual needs of people, including the needs of the members within the own circle of believers, as well as that of others. In conclusion, some relevant aspects within the Reformed Churches in South Africa are brought to the fore.
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