Micah

Micah Homework

1. Write one paragraph explaining the historical background and purpose of the book.

Micah is a self titled prophesy that is written somewhat different than the others of his time. Instead of judgement being the forefront of the book and ending with God’s hope for his people, the promise of hope is intermingled with the judgement. This differed greatly from the prophesies of Isaiah who was his counterpart. Both prophesied during the time of Hezekiah (1:1). Micah was warning the people of the coming judgement of the Lord because they abandoned His laws (4:12). They were in an important time as they watched Israel go into exile and now the decision was presented before Judah. Micah lays it out very clearly. If you turn to the Lord and abandon your idol worship, you will be blessed (6:8). But continue on in your wicked ways and it will bring judgement (2:3). Yet Micah is quick to add that it is not forever (2:12-13). God will not abandon his people to exile. He is faithful to the righteous. (2:7)

2. What does this book show of the Character and Nature of God as well as His plan for redemption?

Micah is a book that displays both God’s judgement on his people in his great justice, and his mercy for those who walk with him. Basically, you want to pick sides with the Lord. There is great promise for those who walk humbly with Him. He says in 2:7 “If you would do what is right, you would find my words comforting.” But even in the midst of destruction, God brings out his remnant and vows to protect them. (5:7) He will still see his plan for redemption through to the end, even in the justice that he must bring and he will give them strength. This is all for his glory alone. (4:6-7) 

3. Point of Passion

I love that Micah presents a very clear picture for the people.

1. You trust God and follow in his laws and you will be blessed.
2. You abandon his laws and walk in wickedness and it will bring destruction. 

I think about so many kids that I see raised in Christian homes that fight for rebellion and “freedom.” Honestly, it makes me nervous when I think about raising kids. But sometimes I really think that you can’t over rule them or force them into decisions. You can’t coach them all through life on where to put their hope. Sometimes you just have to step back and say “Ok. You have two options. Follow the Lord and live a life with meaning and purpose and promise. Or walk away towards ultimately destruction.” This is a hard thought. But that’s why it’s important to talk about Jesus and who he is, but to let the kids discover him and be romanced by him on their own as well. Otherwise it becomes their parents beliefs and not their own.