BOOK OF MICAH - OVERVIEW
About Micah, the Man
Micah's name means "Who Is Like Jehovah." He was from Moresheth-Gath, a village located near the border of Israel and Philistia.
His contemporaries were Isaiah, Amos and Hosea. He was the only minor prophet to prophesy to both Israel and Judah. Micah is described as having been from Judah and prophesying during the reigns of kings Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah of Judah.
About Micah, the Book
The Book of Micah is about judgment and restoration of Judah. His prophecies Include:
---1. Jesus' birthplace (700 hundred years before Jesus' birth, 5:2)
---2. Fall of Samaria
---3. Invasion of Judah
---4. Fall of Jerusalem
---5. Exile in Babylon
---6. Return from captivity
Micah's Messages
Micah's messages were directed chiefly toward Jerusalem. He prophesied the future destruction of Jerusalem and Samaria, the destruction and then future restoration of the Judean state, and he rebuked the people of Judah for dishonesty and idolatry.
Micah warned the people in Israel and Judah that God would punish them for their evil deeds. The people had cruel schemes. They were thieves. And they listened to false prophets whose words were lies.
Micah was the first prophet to predict the downfall of Jerusalem. According to him, the city was doomed because its beautification was financed by dishonest business practices, which impoverished the city's citizens. He also called to account the prophets of his day, whom he accused of accepting money for their oracles.
God wanted the people to be humble and to do the right things. But they refused to obey God. They were proud, and they did many evil deeds. This is why God would punish them.
When the people served God, Israel would become a great nation again.
THINGS TO REMEMBER
Micah 5:2 is a prophecy that Bethlehem, a small village just south of Jerusalem, would be the birthplace of the Messiah.
Micah is perhaps the most vocal in his demands of justice for the poor and downtrodden. He lashes out at greedy judges, who make money from unjust bribes while ignoring true justice and mercy.
OUTLINE OF THE BOOK OF MICAH
I. Prediction of Judgment of People
II. Prediction of Restoration
III. Three Pleas for Repentance
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