Amos 3:1Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

However, since you alone, of all the peoples bestowed with such magnificent gifts, have repeatedly caused Me grief and anger in various ways, I will hold you accountable for your foolishness in the end. I will not overlook your transgressions or allow your return to them without consequences. Therefore, disdain for God and neglect of His divine purpose ultimately lead to ruin for all who know Him or have been known by Him through spiritual attributes. Hence, the wise Paul writes to the Gentiles, who were called by faith but then experienced a regression, seeming ready to return to their old ways: “But now that you have known God, or rather are known by God, how is it that you turn back again to the weak and worthless elements, to which you desire to be enslaved all over again?” (Galatians 4:9). The Creator was aware of them even before they turned to Him; for He knows all things fully; yet the knowledge referred to here highlights a spiritual understanding.

As it is written, "the strong shall be tormented, while the humble shall receive mercy." In Ezekiel, it is stated, "from My sanctified ones you shall begin." Moreover, it is said that God's judgment will commence with His household. So far, we have touched upon the historical interpretation. However, it should be noted that when the Scriptures speak of hearing, it encompasses not just physical listening but also a spiritual understanding, as the Lord says, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." Therefore, "all shall hear the voice of God." Thus, the Lord’s message is directed at those who perceive God with their hearts, whom He freed from Egypt and the dominion of Pharaoh, so they would not be enslaved in building the cities of Egypt. He has recognized them from all the tribes of the world, as the apostle states, "Now, knowing God, you are also known by God." Furthermore, "he who does not know shall not be recognized." Hence, God’s acknowledgment is not extended to everyone, but rather to those deemed worthy, as He expresses in the Gospel, "Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity; I do not know you." As they are workers of iniquity, God does not recognize them. Therefore, He affirms, since I have recognized you alone and chosen you as My own, I will address you for all your iniquities. "For whom the Lord loves, He chastens; and He scourges every son whom He receives." It is beautifully expressed as "I will visit," rather than "punish," for God’s chastening is a visitation and a means of healing. He states that for all your iniquities or sins, I will visit you, ensuring that nothing is left unaddressed and that all may be healed.