Amos 9:12

That they may possess the remnant of Edom, and of all the heathen, which are called by my name, saith the LORD that doeth this.

That they may possess {H3423} the remnant {H7611} of Edom {H123}, and of all the heathen {H1471}, which are called {H7121} by my name {H8034}, saith {H5002} the LORD {H3068} that doeth {H6213} this.

so that Isra'el can possess what is left of Edom and of all the nations bearing my name," says ADONAI, who is doing this.

that they may possess the remnant of Edom and all the nations that bear My name,” declares the LORD, who will do this.

that they may possess the remnant of Edom, and all the nations that are called by my name, saith Jehovah that doeth this.

Context

Amos 9:12 concludes a powerful prophetic section (Amos 9:11-15) that shifts from severe pronouncements of judgment to a glorious vision of future restoration and blessing. The prophet Amos, known for his stark warnings against social injustice and idolatry in Israel and Judah, ends his book with a message of hope. This verse directly follows the promise of God raising up the fallen "tabernacle of David" (Amos 9:11), signifying the restoration of the Davidic dynasty and kingdom, often understood as a messianic prophecy pointing to Christ's reign.

Key Themes

  • Divine Restoration: The verse speaks to God's sovereign plan to restore His people. The "they" refers to the restored Israel, who will not only be rebuilt but also extend their influence.
  • Inclusion of Gentiles: Perhaps the most striking aspect is the inclusion of "the remnant of Edom, and of all the heathen, which are called by my name." Edom, a traditional enemy of Israel (descendants of Esau), represents the broader Gentile nations. This prophecy foretells a time when non-Israelites, even former adversaries, will come to acknowledge the Lord and be part of His people.
  • God's Ownership and Identity: The phrase "which are called by my name" signifies a profound spiritual transformation. It implies that these Gentiles will identify with, belong to, and worship the God of Israel, receiving a new identity and purpose under His divine authority.
  • Messianic Kingdom: In the New Testament, this prophecy is famously quoted by James in Acts 15:16-17 to validate the inclusion of Gentiles into the early Christian church. This highlights the fulfillment of Amos's prophecy in the spiritual kingdom of Christ, where people from all nations are brought into God's family.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "possess the remnant of Edom" uses the Hebrew word yarash (יָרַשׁ), which can mean "to inherit," "to take possession of," or "to dispossess." In this context, especially considering the subsequent phrase "and of all the heathen, which are called by my name," it is often interpreted not as military conquest but as a spiritual inheritance or dominion, where these nations are brought under the spiritual authority of the Lord through conversion and adoption into His people. The term "heathen" is from the Hebrew goyim (גּוֹיִם), referring to nations or Gentiles. The critical phrase "called by my name" (qara' b'shem) denotes a deep relationship of belonging and dedication, implying that these nations will bear God's name and be identified with Him.

Practical Application

Amos 9:12 offers profound insights for believers today:

  • God's Inclusive Love: It reminds us that God's plan of salvation is expansive, extending beyond any single nation or group to encompass all peoples. The church, comprising believers from every tribe and tongue, is a living testament to this ancient prophecy.
  • Hope in Restoration: Even in times of judgment or despair, God always has a plan for restoration and renewal. This verse encourages us to trust in God's ultimate purposes, which include bringing all things under His benevolent rule.
  • Bearing God's Name: As those "called by His name" through faith in Christ, we are called to live lives that reflect His character and purpose. Our identity in Him should shape our actions, values, and witness to the world.
  • Missionary Imperative: This prophecy underscores the importance of sharing the Gospel with all nations, as God's desire is for all "heathen" to be called by His name and become part of His spiritual kingdom.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Isaiah 43:7

    [Even] every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.

  • Isaiah 65:1

    ¶ I am sought of [them that] asked not [for me]; I am found of [them that] sought me not: I said, Behold me, behold me, unto a nation [that] was not called by my name.

  • Acts 15:17

    That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things.

  • Jeremiah 14:9

    Why shouldest thou be as a man astonied, as a mighty man [that] cannot save? yet thou, O LORD, [art] in the midst of us, and we are called by thy name; leave us not.

  • Numbers 24:17

    I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.

  • Numbers 24:18

    And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly.

  • Daniel 9:18

    O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city which is called by thy name: for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies.

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back