A Study in the Book of Micah Ebenezer BFC Summer, 2013

The character of Micah Obeyed God’s call to speak against sin Did so even at great personal risk Cried out to defend sound doctrine Spoke in defense of the one true God Cried out against social injustice and defended the poor and the oppressed Zealous for the glory of God Faithfully proclaimed God’s word Followed God in the midst of harsh criticism, rejection and suffering Devoted to God Exhibited conviction, courage and fortitude in the face of obstacles

Characteristics of his writing Contains some of the most beautiful and meaningful lines is scripture: Micah 5:2-5 Micah 6:6-8 Yet it can be difficult to read and understand: Language is at times perplexing and confusing Easy to get lost in the mixture of judgment and mercy Literary form and style: Written over time as a strategically arranged anthology with a sense of chronology Not a single sermon, rather his life’s work Written in the style of Hebrew poetry Summons to Hear Oracle of Doom Statement of Hope

Historical Background Israel & Judah, The Northern and Southern Kingdoms

Micah 1:1- The Superscription The word of the Lord that came to Micah of Moresheth in the days of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, which he saw concerning Samaria and Jerusalem. Not much is known about Micah, only that he is from a small town about 25 miles southwest of Jerusalem Prophesied during the reigns of Jotham (750-731 B.C.) Ahaz (731-715 B.C.) Hezekiah (715-686 B.C.) Contemporaries were Isaiah, Amos and Hosea

Micah’s Preaching Micah had a long preaching career (~50 yrs.) Spoke out against the sins of the Northern Kingdom Preached against the sins of Judah (South) He continues to warn Judah after attack Speaks of their salvation and return

Major Emphases of Micah Micah’s Message Rebuking Sin Warning of Consequences of Sin Declaring God’s Goodness & Love

Micah Points to the Ultimate Salvation through Jesus Christ Explicit prophesies about the coming of the Christ (e.g. Chapter 5) Presents himself to us as a faithful prophet who is in the likeness of Jesus Points us to Jesus by the coming judgment of Jerusalem

Course Goals- Applying Micah’s Messages to Our Lives Today Like Micah, we may do great things in our lives for the glory of God Break our hearts over our own sin Lead us into deep repentance Draw us closer to Jesus so that we may know: The depth of his forgiveness Fullness of his shepherding care Greatness of his rule over us Magnitude of his salvation and grace Make us a people that strive for justice with loving mercy Walk humbly with God

Homework Please consider and pray about your goals for this study Read Micah Chapters 1-2