Amos 5
Most versions translate verse 24 as a "jussive", "let justice roll..." This is certainly not the case, as in the Hebrew text, this is YHWH talking. The Jussive connotation expresses wish or command, and most take this to be saying YHWH wants the Israelites to do justice and be righteous like they should be. I see no evidence of there being a second chance here for Israel. He is done with them. He has proclaimed judgment and there is no turning back (check the context of the entire chapter, nay, the entire book). The proper translation should not be "let justice roll" but "justice will roll..." There has not been justice and righteousness in Israel's camp for a long time. But do not be mistaken...YHWH will not stand for this. Justice will come; righteousness will flow...and this will be from YHWH. This is not a plea for them to turn around, but this is an indictment on their land and their people...there will be wrath and they will be punished. They will be sent into exile (5:27) for the way that they treated the poor and lowly. This is a warning to those who call themselves Christians but do not show fruit in their lives. God will not be mocked...he will not allow his name to be trampled upon...he is out to be glorified. We as Christians are called to take care of the poor and needy and to have justice and righteousness...to love good and hate evil (5:14). This is what it means to follow God.
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