Amos 7:16

Now, therefore, hear the word of the LORD. You say: 'Do not prophesy against Israel; do not preach against the house of Isaac.'

Study Bible

Now therefore hear
The phrase "Now therefore hear" serves as a divine imperative, calling the audience to attention. In Hebrew, the word for "hear" is "שְׁמַע" (shema), which implies not just listening but also obeying. This echoes the Shema in Deuteronomy 6:4, a central declaration of faith in Judaism. The call to "hear" is a summons to heed God's authoritative message, emphasizing the seriousness and urgency of the prophetic word.

the word of the LORD
"The word of the LORD" signifies a direct communication from God, underscoring the divine origin and authority of the message. In Hebrew, "word" is "דָּבָר" (dabar), which can mean a matter, thing, or command. This phrase assures the audience that the message is not Amos's own but is divinely inspired, carrying the weight and truth of God's will. It is a reminder of the prophetic role as a mouthpiece for God, delivering His unaltered message to the people.

You say
"You say" introduces the opposition's voice, highlighting the tension between the prophet and his audience. This phrase sets up a contrast between human resistance and divine command. It reflects the people's reluctance to accept God's message, a common theme in prophetic literature where the messenger faces rejection and hostility.

‘Do not prophesy against Israel
The command "Do not prophesy against Israel" reveals the people's desire to silence the prophet. The Hebrew word for "prophesy" is "נָבָא" (naba), which means to speak or sing by inspiration. The resistance to prophecy indicates a rejection of divine correction and a preference for comfort over truth. Historically, Israel often resisted prophets who brought messages of judgment, preferring false prophets who spoke of peace and prosperity.

and do not preach against the house of Isaac.’
The phrase "and do not preach against the house of Isaac" further emphasizes the resistance to prophetic messages. "Preach" in Hebrew is "נָטַף" (nataf), meaning to drip or distill, suggesting a continuous flow of divine truth. The "house of Isaac" refers to the Northern Kingdom of Israel, highlighting their ancestral pride and identity. This resistance to preaching underscores a deeper spiritual stubbornness and a refusal to acknowledge their waywardness from God's covenant.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Amos
A prophet called by God from Judah to deliver His message to the Northern Kingdom of Israel. Amos was a shepherd and a fig tree farmer before his calling, emphasizing his humble origins and divine appointment.

2. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, often characterized by idolatry and social injustice during Amos's time. The kingdom was prosperous but spiritually corrupt, leading to God's judgment.

3. House of Isaac
A reference to the descendants of Isaac, specifically the Northern Kingdom of Israel. It highlights the covenant relationship and the expectations God had for His people.

4. The LORD
The covenant God of Israel, who speaks through His prophets to guide, correct, and sometimes rebuke His people.

5. Amaziah
The priest of Bethel who opposed Amos's prophecies, representing the religious establishment that resisted God's message.

Teaching Points

The Authority of God's Word
God's word, delivered through His prophets, carries divine authority. Believers are called to heed His message, even when it challenges or convicts.

Resistance to Truth
Human nature often resists uncomfortable truths. As followers of Christ, we must remain open to God's correction and guidance, even when it comes through unexpected sources.

Courage in Proclamation
Like Amos, believers are called to speak God's truth with courage, regardless of opposition. Our confidence comes from the Lord, not human approval.

The Role of Prophets
Prophets serve as God's mouthpiece, calling His people back to righteousness. We should value and discern prophetic voices in our lives today.

Covenant Responsibility
The reference to the "house of Isaac" reminds us of our covenant responsibilities. As God's people, we are called to live in obedience and reflect His character.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Amos's background as a shepherd and farmer influence your understanding of his prophetic ministry?

2. In what ways do you see resistance to God's truth in today's world, and how can you respond to it?

3. Reflect on a time when you felt called to speak truth in a challenging situation. How did you find the courage to do so?

4. How can we discern true prophetic voices in our lives today, and what role should they play in our spiritual growth?

5. What does it mean to live out our covenant responsibilities as modern-day believers, and how can we ensure we are faithful to God's calling?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Jeremiah 1
Like Amos, Jeremiah faced opposition when delivering God's message. Both prophets were called to speak truth despite resistance, emphasizing the divine authority behind their words.

Matthew 23
Jesus condemns the religious leaders of His time for rejecting God's messengers, similar to how Amaziah rejected Amos. This highlights a recurring theme of resistance to prophetic truth.

Acts 7
Stephen recounts Israel's history of rejecting prophets, drawing a parallel to Amos's experience and underscoring the persistent challenge of accepting divine correction.