Micah 3:1-12
Q.1. What was the charge against Israel’s leaders? How would God respond to Israel’s cry for help? – (Mic.3:1-4 c.f. 1 Pet.3:7)
Rather than apply justice, Israel’s leaders hated good and loved evil. They fleeced the people and left them destitute. However, they were being used by God to punish Israel, because Israel had refused to listen when God spoke to them – Then they will cry out to the Lord, but He will not answer them. Instead, He will hide His face from them at that time because they have practiced evil deeds (Mic.3:4). God will not listen to those who ignore His precepts (c.f. 1 Pet.3:7).
Q.2. What were Judah’s prophets like? What characterized their message? Would God answer their prayers? – (Mic.3:5-7)
Most of Israel’s prophets were false and led God’s people astray (Mic.3:5). They promised peace, when in reality God was not the source of their prophecies and visions (Mic.3:6-7). Time would reveal their falsehood – The seers will be ashamed and the diviners will be embarrassed. Indeed, they will all cover their mouths because there is no answer from God (Mic.3:7). God would refuse to endorse their words.
Q.3. How was Micah different from the false prophets? What was wrong with Israel’s leaders and priests? – (Mic.3:8-12 c.f. 1 Thes.5:1-3)
Micah spoke for himself (and all true servants of God) – On the other hand I am filled with power– With the Spirit of the Lord– And with justice and courage to make known to Jacob his rebellious act, even to Israel his sin (Mic.3:8). Though all other prophets promised blessing for Israel, Micah exposed Israel’s sin. His message was from God. He contrasted himself as being Spirit filled. This gave him courage to speak the truth. However, the leaders, priests, and prophets – 10 build Zion with bloodshed and Jerusalem with violent injustice. 11 Her leaders pronounce judgment for a bribe, her priests instruct for a price and her prophets divine for money. Yet they lean on the Lord saying, “Is not the Lord in our midst? Calamity will not come upon us.” (Mic.3:10-11). They were utterly corrupted – and twist everything that is straight (Mic.3:9).