MICAH at a glance

PURPOSE FOR WRITING MICAH: The prophet was called upon to warn all of Israel of the coming judgment and present the offer of a pardon for anyone who repented and walked away from their old sinful lifestyle.

WHO IS THE AUTHOR?: Micah was a native of Moresheth, near Gath which was roughly 20 miles southwest of Jerusalem.

WHEN WAS IT WRITTEN?: Possibly during the reigns of Kings Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah (742-687 BC)

THE KEY VERSE FOUND IN MICAH: “No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)

 

NOTE: “Micah is a beautiful example of classical Hebrew poetry. There are 3 parts, each beginning with the word “Attention!” or “Listen” in Micah 1:2, 3:1 & 6:1. Each section closes with a promise.”

 

            “In seven short chapters, Micah presents this true picture of God -- the almighty Lord who hates sin and loves the sinner. Much of the book is devoted to describing God’s judgment on Israel (the northern kingdom), and Judah (the southern kingdom), and on all the earth. This judgment will come “because of the rebellion of Israel and the sins of Judah. The prophet listed their despicable sins of Judah; fraud, theft, greed, debauchery, oppression, hypocrisy, heresy, injustice, extortion, lying, murder and other offences. For these sins God’s judgment will come.

            In the midst of this overwhelming prediction of destruction, Micah gives hope and consolation because he also describes God’s love. The truth is that judgment comes only after countless opportunities to repent, turning back to true worship and obedience....” _{(TLASB - P,1896)}

 

- MICAH served as a prophet to Judah from 742-687 BC. 

- King Ahaz did something that didn’t please God at all. He set up pagan idols in the Temple and then finally nailed the Temple doors shut. 

- There were 4 nations that harassed Judah relentlessly.

- When Hezekiah became king, the southern kingdom began the slow road to recovery and economic strength. It appears that Hezekiah heard and applied much of Micah’s advice thus helping postpone God’s judgment upon Judah.

- Micah’s main message was regarding the eventual fall of both the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah.

- Choosing to live a life apart from God is, whether knowingly or unknowingly, making a commitment to a life of sin. Sin leads to judgment and death. God alone shows us the way to eternal peace. His discipline often keeps us on the right path.

 

            Up next are the Mega-Themes of the book of Micah. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible