Amos 7:12

And Amaziah said to Amos, "Go away, you seer! Flee to the land of Judah; earn your bread there and do your prophesying there.

Study Bible

And Amaziah said to Amos
Amaziah, the priest of Bethel, represents the religious establishment of the Northern Kingdom of Israel. His confrontation with Amos, a prophet from the Southern Kingdom of Judah, highlights the tension between institutional religion and prophetic truth. Historically, this reflects the divided monarchy period, where political and religious tensions were prevalent. The Hebrew root for "said" (אָמַר, 'amar) often introduces a significant declaration, indicating the weight of Amaziah's opposition to Amos.

Go away, you seer!
The term "seer" (חֹזֶה, chozeh) is an ancient designation for a prophet, emphasizing the visionary aspect of the prophetic role. Amaziah's command to "go away" underscores his rejection of Amos's message. This reflects a broader biblical theme where true prophets are often unwelcome in their own land, as they challenge the status quo and call for repentance. The historical context shows that prophets like Amos were often marginalized by those in power.

Flee to the land of Judah
Amaziah's directive for Amos to "flee" (בָּרַח, barach) to Judah is both a dismissal and an insult. It suggests that Amos's message is unwelcome and that he should return to his own territory. This reflects the political and religious division between Israel and Judah. The land of Judah, being Amos's homeland, is ironically the place where his message might be more accepted, yet it also highlights the rejection he faces in Israel.

Earn your bread there
This phrase implies that Amos is a professional prophet, suggesting that he should make his living by prophesying in Judah. The Hebrew concept of "bread" (לֶחֶם, lechem) often symbolizes sustenance and livelihood. Amaziah's words are dismissive, insinuating that Amos's prophecies are motivated by financial gain rather than divine calling. This accusation reflects a misunderstanding of the prophetic vocation, which is driven by obedience to God rather than material reward.

and do your prophesying there
Amaziah's instruction to "do your prophesying" in Judah further emphasizes his rejection of Amos's message. The Hebrew root for "prophesying" (נָבָא, naba) involves speaking forth a divine message. This highlights the core of Amos's mission—to deliver God's word regardless of opposition. Historically, prophets were often seen as troublemakers by those in power, yet their role was crucial in calling the people back to covenant faithfulness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amaziah
A priest of Bethel, serving under King Jeroboam II of Israel. He opposed Amos's prophecies, viewing them as a threat to the established religious and political order.

2. Amos
A prophet from Judah, called by God to deliver messages of judgment and repentance to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Known for his straightforward and uncompromising messages.

3. Bethel
A significant religious center in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, where Amaziah served. It was a place of idol worship, contrary to the worship of Yahweh in Jerusalem.

4. Judah
The Southern Kingdom, where Amos originated. It was distinct from the Northern Kingdom of Israel, both politically and religiously.

5. Prophecy
The act of delivering messages from God, often involving warnings of judgment or calls to repentance. Amos's prophecies were directed against the social injustices and idolatry of Israel.

Teaching Points

Courage in Proclaiming Truth
Amos exemplifies the courage required to speak God's truth, even when facing opposition from powerful figures like Amaziah. Believers are called to stand firm in their convictions.

The Danger of Religious Complacency
Amaziah represents a religious system more concerned with maintaining power and tradition than with true worship and obedience to God. Christians must guard against complacency and ensure their faith is genuine.

The Call to Faithfulness
Amos's response to Amaziah's command to leave highlights the importance of faithfulness to God's calling, regardless of personal cost or societal pressure.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets are often misunderstood and rejected, yet their role is crucial in calling people back to God. Believers should be open to hearing and heeding prophetic voices today.

Judgment and Repentance
Amos's message underscores the themes of judgment and the need for repentance. Christians are reminded of the importance of self-examination and turning back to God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the interaction between Amaziah and Amos illustrate the tension between religious authority and prophetic truth?

2. In what ways can modern believers demonstrate the same courage as Amos when faced with opposition for their faith?

3. How does the historical context of Bethel as a center of idol worship inform our understanding of Amaziah's resistance to Amos?

4. What lessons can we learn from Amos about remaining faithful to God's calling, even when it leads to personal sacrifice?

5. How can we apply the themes of judgment and repentance from Amos's message to our own lives and communities today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Kings 12
Provides background on the division of the kingdoms and the establishment of Bethel as a center of idol worship by Jeroboam I, setting the stage for the religious climate Amos confronted.

Jeremiah 1
Highlights the calling of prophets, emphasizing that true prophets speak God's words regardless of opposition, similar to Amos's experience.

Matthew 23
Jesus condemns religious leaders who oppose God's messengers, paralleling Amaziah's rejection of Amos.