Knowing God’s Word: The Prophecies of Micah
Micah is the author of this book (1:1). The book of Micah is the 33rd book of our OT; the 6th of the minor prophets. Micah is the Hebrew word Michayahu meaning “Who Is Like Yahweh?” It was shortened to Michaia and we see a hint of this name in 7:18 – “Who is a God like You”.
The Background and Ministry of the Prophet
He was from Moresheth (25 mi. SW of Jerusalem). Moresheth was close to the Philistine border city of Gath. Micah prophesies during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz & Hezekiah (Judah), dating his prophecy at 735-700 BC. He was a contemporary of Isaiah, Hosea and maybe Amos.
Micah prophesied mostly to Judah but also to Israel as well. He predicted both the fall of Jerusalem (3:12) and Samaria (1:6). Micah is referenced in Jeremiah 26:16-19 as predicting the destruction of Jerusalem (only other reference to him).
The Message of Micah
Micah speaks out against the sin and injustices of the day. He boldly proclaims that both Samaria and Jerusalem will fall due to the sin of Israel and Judah. He also gives hope with prophecy of the coming Messiah.
Prophecies of the Last Days
Micah 4:1-2 (NKJV):
1 Now it shall come to pass in the latter days That the mountain of the Lord’s house Shall be established on the top of the mountains, And shall be exalted above the hills; And peoples shall flow to it.
2 Many nations shall come and say, “Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, To the house of the God of Jacob; He will teach us His ways, And we shall walk in His paths.” For out of Zion the law shall go forth, And the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
Structure and Key Verses
The following table provides an outline of Micah based on the themes presented in the book:
| Chapters | Theme and Focus |
|---|---|
| 1-3 | Proclaiming Future Judgment For Past Sins (Message to Samaria, Specific Sins, Denouncement of Leaders) |
| 4-5 | Prophesying Future Glory Because of Past Promises (Prophesies of Last Days, Prophecy of Coming of Christ) |
| 6 | Pleading Present Repentance Because of Past Redemption |
| 7 | Pardoning All Iniquity Because He is God |
Key Verses in Micah to study include:
- 3:8
- 4:1-5
- 5:2
- 6:8
- 7:18-20