Background:
Amaziah, a priest of Bethel, plays a significant role in the narrative of the prophet Amos, particularly in Amos 7:10-17. This passage highlights the tension between the religious establishment of the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the prophetic message delivered by Amos, a shepherd from Tekoa in Judah. The encounter between Amaziah and Amos underscores the conflict between true prophetic voices and institutionalized religion that has strayed from God's commandments.

Biblical Account:
In Amos 7:10-17, Amaziah accuses Amos before King Jeroboam II of Israel. The Berean Standard Bible records Amaziah's words: "Then Amaziah the priest of Bethel sent a message to Jeroboam king of Israel, saying, 'Amos has conspired against you in the midst of the house of Israel. The land cannot bear all his words.'" (Amos 7:10). Amaziah's accusation stems from Amos's prophecies of judgment against Israel, which include the fall of the royal house and the exile of the people.

Amaziah confronts Amos directly, instructing him to flee to Judah and prophesy there, as recorded in Amos 7:12-13 : "Then Amaziah said to Amos, 'Go away, you seer! Flee to the land of Judah. Earn your bread there and do your prophesying there, but never again prophesy at Bethel, for it is the king’s sanctuary and a royal temple.'" Amaziah's words reveal his perception of Bethel as a center of political and religious power, where dissenting voices like Amos's are unwelcome.

Amos's Response:
Amos responds to Amaziah with a declaration of his divine calling. He clarifies that he is not a prophet by profession, nor the son of a prophet, but rather a shepherd and a caretaker of sycamore-fig trees. Amos 7:14-15 states: "Amos answered, 'I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. But the LORD took me from tending the flock and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to My people Israel.’"

Amos's response emphasizes the divine origin of his mission, contrasting with the institutional authority represented by Amaziah. He proceeds to deliver a dire prophecy against Amaziah and his household, foretelling the priest's downfall and the impending judgment on Israel (Amos 7:16-17).

Theological Implications:
The encounter between Amaziah and Amos highlights several key themes in biblical theology. First, it underscores the sovereignty of God in choosing His messengers, irrespective of their social or professional status. Amos's background as a shepherd illustrates that God's call transcends human qualifications and societal expectations.

Second, the narrative illustrates the danger of religious institutions becoming complacent or corrupt, prioritizing political alliances and power over faithfulness to God's word. Amaziah's role as a priest at Bethel, a center of idolatrous worship, exemplifies the compromise that can occur when religious leaders align themselves with political authorities rather than adhering to divine truth.

Finally, the passage serves as a reminder of the cost of prophetic ministry. Amos's boldness in delivering God's message, despite opposition and personal risk, exemplifies the courage required to speak truth to power. His unwavering commitment to his divine commission challenges believers to remain faithful to God's calling, even in the face of adversity.