Micah

Write one paragraph explaining the historical background and purpose of the prophet.

      Micah, who is attributed to writing the book, was a prophet during the reign of Jotham Ahaz and Hezekiah (1:1). He wrote about both Israel and Judah, but the original readers would have been Judah. Micah came from the small town or Moresheth and would have been shocked by the terrible practices of those in Jerusalem. He speaks a lot to the leaders and priests because he sees how corrupt they have become (3:1). A verse that summarizes all of Micah is 6:8. He tells the people how to live. He tells them to do what is right and to be humble. They were a proud people and did terrible things (2:6, 2:2).

The main purpose of this book is to address the leaders of Jerusalem and show them how wicked they were.

What does this book show about the character and nature of God?

      God is a God of justice who stands up for the poor and oppressed (2:3-4). Basically we see the God of justice and vengeance throughout the book. 6:13 says, “Therefore, I will wound you! I will bring you to ruin for all your sins.” God doesn't want their sacrifices, but He wants them to change their hearts and do what is right (6:6-8).

What does this book show about God's redemptive plan for mankind?

      Though Israel is about to be wiped from the scene forever God promises them, “I will gather a remnant who are left. I will bring you together again like sheep in a pen,” (2:12). God promises redemption for them, though this may be a spiritual redemption. Micah says in 5:2 that on is coming in Bethlehem that will rule Israel who comes from a distant past. A clear prophecy of the Messiah here. In 4:7 God speaks and says that He will rule from Jerusalem forever as their king giving Judah hope for redemption. Micah describes how God will throw their sins into the depths of the ocean. He prophesies not of a covering of sin, but of a removal of sins. 7:16-20 gives Judah an amazing hope of something they have yet to see. They have never seen the removal of sin, but here Micah prophesies that one day things will be different. Their sin will be taken care of by God.

Point of Passion (Bronx, NYC)

"I will reward your evil with evil; you won't be able to pull your neck out of the noose.  You will no longer walk around proudly, for it will be a terrible time." (Micah 2:3).  Such a strong message from God to those who do what is wicked and are proud of it.  There are plenty of people looking to do what is wicked.  They look to see how they can take advantage, fight, rob, and oppress those weaker than them.  They think that because they have a weapon, or because they have money or big muscles that they are something special.  They compare one another by looks, clothes, and by how tough they are.  They look out for themselves and do whatever evil they need to to make themselves happy.  No one else matters but them and they oppress others who may be weaker.  It's a sick thing when you see it going on, and when you know those who it is happening to.  It seems like the oppressors are going to be okay, like there is no consequences for their actions.  God says something different.  He says He will pay evil for evil and that their pride will eventually catch up to them.  Maybe in this life but definitely when they stand before God at judgment time.  Some feel like the only way they can get through the day is by acting tough or doing what their oppressors are telling them to do.  God has a different solution found in Micah 6:8.  He says to walk humbly and to love mercy.  God is our shield, our rock and our protection.  We can go to Him in time of need and He will walk with us as we walk in humility and love those who are oppressing us.