TRV
Amos 3:3
Bible Versions
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2 Corinthians 6:14
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? -
2 Corinthians 6:16
And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in [them]; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. -
Genesis 17:1
¶ And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I [am] the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. -
Genesis 5:22
And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters: -
Genesis 6:9
These [are] the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man [and] perfect in his generations, [and] Noah walked with God.
Amos 3:3 (KJV)
Can two walk together, except they be agreed?
Commentary
This verse is part of a series of rhetorical questions posed by the prophet Amos, challenging Israel (the Northern Kingdom) regarding their relationship with God. Amos is delivering messages of judgment and calling the people to account for their sins, particularly injustice and idolatry.
Context: Amos is speaking directly to the people of Israel, reminding them of their unique covenant relationship with God (mentioned in the preceding verse, Amos 3:2). He is explaining *why* God is bringing judgment upon them. The rhetorical questions in verses 3-6 illustrate cause and effect, showing that certain outcomes are the result of specific actions or conditions. Verse 3 is a fundamental principle that applies to any relationship or journey undertaken together.
Meaning and Themes: The core message is that a shared journey or relationship requires a fundamental agreement or alignment of purpose, direction, and will. In the immediate context of Amos, the "two" are God and Israel. God had established a covenant with Israel, promising to walk with them and be their God, provided they agreed to obey His laws and walk in His ways. Israel's persistent disobedience and pursuit of other gods demonstrated a lack of agreement with God's will and purpose. Therefore, they could not continue to "walk together" in blessing and fellowship; separation (judgment) was inevitable.
The verse highlights the theme of the necessity of alignment for fellowship, whether with God or with others. True partnership requires shared values and goals.
Linguistic Insight: The Hebrew word translated "agreed" is no'adu (נוֹעֲדוּ). It comes from a root meaning "to appoint," "to meet," or "to gather by appointment." It suggests not just a casual agreement but a deliberate meeting or coming together based on a prior arrangement or understanding. This emphasizes that walking with God is not accidental; it requires a deliberate decision to meet Him on His terms, aligning one's life with His covenant and will.
Application: This principle is timeless. For individuals, walking with God requires a conscious agreement to follow His path, guided by His word and led by His Spirit. When our desires and actions are contrary to God's will, we are not "agreed" with Him, and our fellowship with Him is hindered. It also applies to human relationships – marriage, business partnerships, friendships – highlighting the importance of shared values, goals, and mutual understanding for a healthy and sustainable connection.
See also Genesis 5:24 (Enoch walked with God) and 1 John 1:6 (If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth).