Book of Amos - Chapter 7 - Verse 13

In the verse "But prophesy not again any more at Bethel: for it is the king's chapel, and it is the king's court," the prophet Amos is warned by Amaziah, the priest of Bethel, that he should not prophesy there anymore. Bethel was a significant religious center in Israel, and the king's chapel and court were places of political and religious authority. By delivering this message, Amaziah was essentially trying to silence Amos and prevent him from speaking out against the corruption and idolatry that were prevalent in the kingdom. This verse serves as a reminder of the clash between God's call to speak truth to power and the resistance and persecution that prophets often faced when delivering messages that went against the status quo. It underscores the importance of staying faithful to God's calling, even in the face of opposition and adversity.

Within the context of the passage, the verse "But prophesy not again any more at Bethel: for it is the king's chapel, and it is the king's court." carries a theological interpretation that sheds light on the relationship between spiritual authority and earthly rulers. In this verse, the prophet Amos is warned not to prophesy at Bethel because it is considered the king's place of worship and judgment. This serves as a reminder that even though prophets are called to speak truth to power, they must also be mindful of the political implications of their words. The word 'Bethel' itself means 'house of God,' highlighting the significance of this location and the tension between divine authority and human rule. Additionally, the term 'prophesy' in this context emphasizes the act of speaking messages from God, which can sometimes challenge those in positions of power. This verse prompts readers to consider the complexities of balancing religious duties and political allegiances in a world where spiritual truths often clash with worldly powers.