How can we apply Amos 7:13 to discern true prophecy in today's world? Setting the scene at Bethel - Amos, a shepherd-prophet from Judah, is delivering God’s word in the northern kingdom. - Amaziah the priest, loyal to Jeroboam II, rejects Amos and declares, “But do not prophesy again at Bethel, for it is the king’s sanctuary and a temple of the kingdom” (Amos 7:13). - The issue is not geography; it is rebellion. Bethel prefers a message that protects power and tradition rather than truth. Essential truths about genuine prophecy - True prophecy speaks for the Lord, not for institutions (Amos 3:8). - True prophecy confronts sin with specificity (Amos 7:16-17). - True prophecy is consistent with all prior revelation (Deuteronomy 13:1-4). - True prophecy is fulfilled exactly when predictive (Deuteronomy 18:22). Red flags drawn from Amos 7:13 1. Pressure to silence Scripture: any voice insisting that God’s word stay out of certain arenas echoes Amaziah. 2. Appeal to human authority over divine authority: “royal sanctuary” and “temple of the kingdom” highlight loyalty to the crown rather than to the King of kings. 3. Desire for comfort and continuity: Bethel wanted worship that affirmed national identity, not holiness. 4. Isolation of God’s messenger: Amaziah labels Amos an outsider to discredit him; truth is judged by content, not credentials. Tests for discerning prophecy today - Measure every message against the whole counsel of Scripture (Acts 17:11). - Examine moral fruit: a prophet’s life and message must produce righteousness (Matthew 7:16-20). - Verify doctrinal fidelity: the gospel must remain intact (Galatians 1:8). - Watch for self-promotion or profiteering: true servants exalt Christ, not themselves (2 Corinthians 4:5). - Require accuracy in any specific prediction: “When the word of the prophet comes to pass, the prophet will be known as the one whom the LORD has truly sent” (Jeremiah 28:9). - Listen for the call to repentance rather than applause (Jeremiah 23:21-22). Practical steps for everyday believers 1. Stay rooted in daily Bible intake so counterfeit words are obvious. 2. Commit to a local church that upholds expositional teaching. 3. Compare modern “words” with tested confessions of the faith. 4. Avoid knee-jerk rejection of hard truths; Amos was right though unpopular. 5. Guard your heart against movements that tie spiritual authority to political power. 6. Celebrate prophecy that magnifies Christ and aligns with Scripture (Revelation 19:10). Supporting passages for continued study |
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