Micah 1: 1-6
Introduction…
“What on earth did I just read?” This may be what pops into your head after having read the first chapter of Micah. Little is known about the prophet Micah beyond what can be learned from the book itself and from Jeremiah 26:18. Micah is best known for it’s prophecy of the coming Messiah (Micah 5:2) and it’s call to justice (Micah 6:8). But have you ever wondered why the need for such a prophecy, or why Micah would make such an appeal for justice and humility? The prophet announces the coming of the Lord and this is not good news. But even in this oracle of doom there is a hope on the horizon for a sinful nation. God will not tolerate injustice, but He will also not forget His promises.
For a better understanding of the context of Micah please read 2 Kings 16-20. This will help you understand the nations involved and the indignation of God. Spending a little time on this reading will enhance your study greatly.
As we approach this advent, let us be reminded that the coming of the Messiah is all about redemption and justice. Micah is not a book to be left in the 8th century B.C., but is filled with lessons for us as a church today.