There came a time in Jerusalem when the actions of the influential and wealthy could no longer be ignored. The rich of the region constantly neglected and mistreated the poor. The prophet Micah chastises those who abuse their power and turn their backs on the weak and less fortunate. In this article, you will learn more about Micah, as well as the significance of the Old Testament Book that he wrote.
Micah is believed to have written the Book of Micah sometime between 735 and 700 BC. The purpose of penning the Book was to send a message that the corruptness, social wrongdoings and other sins of Israel would be judged, which is expected to destroy Samaria and Jerusalem. Yet, the passages speak of the restoration of the nation, as well as a transformation towards the good. Throughout the Book of Micah, a reader will encounter a collection of oracles of judgment and promises of restoration that alternate throughout the text.
Who is Micah?
Micah came from Moresheth Gath, which is located about 25 miles southwest of Jerusalem – right on the border of Judah and Philistia. When he prophesized, he saw the rule of three kings of Judah (Jothan (739 to 731 BC), Ahaz (731 to 715 BC), and Hezekiah (715 to 686 BC). When he spreads his religious word, he mostly talks of the Southern Kingdom (Judah), but also addresses the Northern Kingdom (Israel) when he predicts the fall of Samaria.
The prophecies of Micah last for about 25 years ”“ ranging from about 735 to 710 BC. When Micah engaged in his ministry, he focused on the specific sins that Judah had committed, whch included oppression, pride, merchants cheating their customers by using incorrect weights, and bribery among the judges, prophets and priest.
In the Book of Micah, the prophet exposes the sins of his countrymen and speaks of a punishment that God will carry out. Following the consequences of their evil ways, the nation can look forward to a possible restoration.
Passages from Book of Micah
Examples of passages from the Book of Micah include the following:
“Hear, O peoples, all of you, listen, O earth and all who are in it, that the Sovereign LORD may witness against you, the Lord from His holy temple.” (Micah 1:2)
“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:2)
“He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)
“Who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of His inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.” (Micah 7:18-19)
