The Two Great Commandments

In the midst of arguably the sternest prophetic word in Scripture, the prophecy of Amos that declares the death and destruction of Israel, a powerful and profound word of relevance springs forth for the church today. “But let justice run down like water, and righteousness, like a mighty stream” (Amos 5:24). Justice and righteousness are two great words in the Old Testament and moral attributes and characteristics that God demands. In this context of Amos’s prophecy, it spoke to how the rich and powerful were treating the poor and un-influential. They were abusing, cheating, and disregarding those of lesser status, but continuing to put on their pious demeanor and practice religious routine like they had always done. Of their offerings and sacrifices God said, “I will not accept them” and He echoes that truth when He declares “take away from me the noise of your songs for I will not hear the melody of your stringed instruments. But let justice run down like water, and righteousness like a mighty stream” (Amos 5:23, 24).

The message of Yahweh was clear. What Israel did in relations with others affected their relations with God and they could not love God if they did not love their fellow neighbor. Their worship, though elaborate and beautiful, was worthless and despised. Regardless of what feeling they experienced. Their activity was displeasing to God. Surely this is what Jesus meant when He outlined the two great commandments, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind ‘AND’ love your neighbor as yourself.” The first CANNOT be done if the second is not faithfully discharged. Selfish attitudes, critical casting of judgment on one another, preferring ourselves over others, looking down on those we lead, demanding rights, or manipulating others to benefit ourselves cannot co-exist where true spiritual piety, devotion, and worship is being manifest. Our exploits may be impressive, our expressions fine tuned, and our excellence admired, but to the ears of the Holy God we worship, we are sounding brass and clanging cymbals.