Three Minor Prophets Obadiah, Jonah, Micah

Three Minor Prophets Obadiah, Jonah, Micah
Through the Bible in One Year June 21, 2015 Xavier Reyna, Director Ben Compere, Editor “Most Old Testament prophecy can be described as ‘forth-telling’…” “The IVP Introduction to the Bible”

Agenda Canon Prophet History Summary Background Analysis Message
New Testament Application Test Agenda Per Prophet

Obadiah, Jonah and Micah are Minor Prophets
Canon Obadiah, Jonah and Micah are Minor Prophets

Canon The Difference Between Major and Minor Prophets: Volume of Material Not Importance of the Message

Canon Each Major Prophet (Except Daniel) Has as Much Material as All the Minor Prophets: Minor Prophets Chapters Verses Hosea 14 197 Joel 4 73 Amos 9 146 Obadiah 1 21 Jonah 48 Micah 7 105 Nahum 3 47 Habakkuk 56 Zephaniah 53 Haggai 2 38 Zechariah 211 Malachi 55 Minor Prophets Total 67 1050 Major Prophets Chapters Verses Isaiah 66 1291 Jeremiah 52 1364 Lamentations 5 154 Ezekiel 48 1271 Daniel 12 530 Major Prophets Total 183 4610

What is a Prophet? From the Hebrew word which means spokesman
Appears about 240 times in Old Testament The New Testament Greek word also means one who speaks forth Occurs 55 times in New Testament We usually think of a prophet as one who predicts the future

The Prophet’s Twofold Task
FORTHTELLS the word of God Denounce sin Proclaim judgment Plead for repentance Encourage obedience FORETELLS the word of God Predicts future events 90 + % Less than 10% “Most Old Testament prophecy can be described as ‘forth-telling’…” “The IVP Introduction to the Bible”

Obadiah, Jonah and Micah Prophesied During the Divided Kingdom Era
History Obadiah, Jonah and Micah Prophesied During the Divided Kingdom Era Period Biblical References Dates Patriarchal Genesis ???? – 1800 BC Egypt & the Exodus Ex 1:1 – Deut 34:12 1800 – 1406 BC Conquest & Settlement Josh 1:1 – I Sam 10:1 BC United Kingdom I Sam 10:1 – I King 12:15 1050 – 931 BC Divided Kingdom I King 12:15 – II King 25:6 931 – 586 BC Exile and Return II King 25:6 – Ezra, Nehemiah 586 – 420 BC “Biblical history matters because it is God’s story and as such offers us the way to know Him.” c Hill and Walton, “The Old Testament Today”

The Literary Prophets Prophesied Over a 400 Year Period
History The Literary Prophets Prophesied Over a 400 Year Period Literary Prophets Span About 400 Years

History Chronolgy Jonah Micah Obadiah

Obadiah’s Anti-Edomite Oracles
Summary Obadiah’s Anti-Edomite Oracles The prophecy of Obadiah against Edom was a response to the role Edom played in assisting the Babylonians to defeat Judah and destroy Jerusalem. The purpose of Obadiah is to pronounce judgment on Edom and predict deliverance for Israel. Obadiah announces Edom’s coming judgment (vv. 1-9) and the reasons for this judgment: violence to a helpless Judah (vv ). When the day of the Lord comes, all nations will receive judgment (vv. 15,16), not just Edom. Israel will receive deliverance and the restoration of her land (vv.18-21). “Obadiah… is concerned primarily with the punishment and destruction of Edom for her sins against Israel.” H.E. Freeman, “An Introduction to the Old Testament Prophets” “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

Israel and Edom are Brother Nations
Obadiah Background Israel and Edom are Brother Nations Jacob and Esau were twins born to Rebekah by Isaac Jacob produced the nation of Israel Esau produced the nation of Edom – Genesis 25:23-26; 29,30 23 The Lord said to her, “Two nations are in your womb, and two peoples from within you will be separated; one people will be stronger than the other, and the older will serve the younger.” 24 When the time came for her to give birth, there were twin boys in her womb. 25 The first to come out was red, and his whole body was like a hairy garment; so they named him Esau.26 After this, his brother came out, with his hand grasping Esau’s heel; so he was named Jacob. 29 Once when Jacob was cooking some stew, Esau came in from the open country, famished. 30 He said to Jacob, “Quick, let me have some of that red stew! I’m famished!” (That is why he was also called Edom.) “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

Israel and Edom are Contiguous
Obadiah Background Israel and Edom are Contiguous “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

Edom Has a Long Adversarial History with Israel…1
Obadiah Background Edom Has a Long Adversarial History with Israel…1 Began with the birth of the twin boys: Esau and Jacob (Gen. 25:19-34) Continued when Jacob stole Esau’s birthright (Gen. Chapter 25) Escalated when Jacob stole Esau’s blessing (Gen 27) Edom refused Israel passage though its territory after the exodus (Num. 20:14-21; Judg. 11:17,18) Balaam predicted Israel would conquer Edom (Num. 24:18) “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

Obadiah Background Edom Has a Long Adversarial History with Israel…2 The kings of the united monarchy fought against Edom Saul : 1 Sam 14:47 David: 2 Sam 8:13,14 Solomon: 1 Kings 9:26-28; 11:14-22) Edom, allied with Moab and Ammon, raided Judah during Jehoshaphat's reign (2 Chron. 20) Edom rebelled against Jehoram and managed to stay independent from Israel for about 40 years (2Kings 8:20-22; 2 Chron. 21:8-10) “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

Obadiah Background Edom Has a Long Adversarial History with Israel…3 King Amaziah of Judah conquered Edom and inflicted heavy casualties after the battle had been won (2Kings 14:7; 2Chron. 25:11,12) During the reign of Ahaz, Edom raided Judah and took captives (2Chron. 28:17) Edom aided Babylon during the defeat of Judah and destruction of Jerusalem around 587 BC. (2 Kings 25:1-3; cf. Psalm 137:7-9; Ezekiel 25:1-3;12-14) This last act of war is the stimulus for the prophecy given by Obadiah “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

The Conflict Between and Israel Is Seen in the New Testament
Obadiah Background The Conflict Between and Israel Is Seen in the New Testament Herod the Great, an Idumean and descendant of Edom seeks to destroy Jesus, the messiah of Israel at his birth (Matthew 2:16) In Romans 9 Paul uses the example of Jacob and Esau to illustrate divine election by quoting texts from Genesis 25:23 – “the older will serve the younger” Malachi 1:2,3 – “Jacob I loved but Esau I hated” “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

Obadiah is One of Several Anti-Edom Oracles in the Old Testament
Background Obadiah is One of Several Anti-Edom Oracles in the Old Testament Genesis 27:39,40 Psalm 137:7-9 Isaiah 2:11,12 Isaiah 34:5-17 Jeremiah 49:7-22 Ezekiel 25:12-14 Ezekiel 35:1-15 Amos 1:11-12 Joel 3:19 Malachi 1:2-4 “Edom is the subject of more separate oracles against foreign nations and more brief or passing hostile reference in the prophetic books than any other nation.” Dillard and Longman, “An Introduction to the Old Testament” “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

Obadiah’s Anti-Edomite Oracles
Analysis Obadiah’s Anti-Edomite Oracles Oracle Against Edom (1:1-14) Judgment pronounced (1:1-9) Judgment justified (1:10-14) The Day of the Lord (1:15-21) Judgment on all nations (1:15,16) Deliverance for Israel (1:17-21) “This prophecy was a response to the role Edom played in the fall of Jerusalem to the Babylonian hordes of King Nebuchadnezzar (2 Kings 24-25).” Hill and Walton, “A Survey of the Old Testament” “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

Oracle Against Edom 1:1-14 Judgment pronounced 1:1-9
Obadiah Message Oracle Against Edom 1:1-14 Judgment pronounced 1:1-9 Edom will be destroyed Judgment justified 1:10-14 Did not help Israel fight Babylon Rejoiced over Jerusalem's destruction Killed Israelite fugitives Handed captured Israelites over to Babylon “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

The Day of the Lord 1:15-21 Judgment on all nations 1:15,16
Obadiah Message The Day of the Lord 1:15-21 Judgment on all nations 1:15,16 All nations judged for their actions Deliverance for Israel 1:17-21 Israel delivered Edom destroyed Israel to possess Edom’s land “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

What Do We Learn From Obadiah?
Application What Do We Learn From Obadiah? The Lord judges nations which persecute his people. “Because of the violence against your brother Jacob, you will be covered with shame; you will be destroyed forever.” Obadiah 10

Jonah Summary Jonah The Lord commissions Jonah to go to Nineveh and preach against it. But Jonah boards a ship and heads in the opposite direction. The Lord sends a storm to stop him. The sailors determine that Jonah is the cause of the storm and after considerable anguish they toss him overboard at his request . Jonah is swallowed by a large fish (Chapter 1). From inside the fish Jonah prays for deliverance and the fish spews Jonah on the beach (Chapter 2). Jonah proceeds to Nineveh where he delivers the message of doom. The people repent and the Lord spares them his judgment (Chapter 3). Then Jonah became very angry at God’s merciful treatment of Nineveh. He retired to the desert where God created a shade bush for him but had it killed by a worm the next day. Jonah rejoiced to have the shade of the bush but was distraught when it died. Jonah was concerned about the vine but not about the people in the city just the opposite of the Lord’s attitude (Chapter 4). “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Jonah’s Historical Setting
Background Jonah’s Historical Setting Jonah preached sometime during the reigns of Jeroboam II of Israel BC Azariah (Uzziah) of Judah BC Best guess around 770 BC The Assyrian Empire was the dominate political and military force of the time Assyria's capital was Nineveh “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Jonah’s Geography Jonah Background
“I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Jonah is Unique Among the Prophetic Writings
Background Jonah is Unique Among the Prophetic Writings The book is a narrative; not a collection of prophetic oracles. Jonah utters only one line of prophetic speech: “Forty days and Nineveh will be overthrown.” Jonah’s prophecy does not mention God’s name The pagans in the story (the sailors and the inhabitants of Nineveh) respond to God more favorably than the prophet. “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

The Eight Miracles in Jonah
Background The Eight Miracles in Jonah The storm (1:4) The lots the sailors cast fell on Jonah (1:7) The seas calmed when the sailors threw Jonah overboard (1:15) Fish swallows Jonah – three days and nights (1:17) Fish vomits Jonah onto dry land (2:10) Vine grew overnight (4:6) Worm eats the vine (4:7) Scorching east wind (4:8) “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Tips for Reading the Book of Jonah
Background Tips for Reading the Book of Jonah Remember, that the main character is the Lord (mentioned 26 times); not Jonah (mentioned 15 times) Put yourself in the place of an Israelite reader (especially with respect to the Assyrians) Notice the irony in the story (response to God by pagans versus the prophet) Keep in mind that it is a commentary on the Abrahamic covenant (Gen. 12:1-3) “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Jonah: the Reluctant Prophet
Analysis A typical outline for the book of Jonah Jonah: the Reluctant Prophet Jonah wants his own way (1:1-16) Jonah decides on God’s way (1:17-2:10) Jonah preaches to Nineveh (3:1-10) Jonah pouts over Nineveh (4:1-11) “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Jonah: The Parallel Narrative About God’s Compassion
Analysis An outline for the book of Jonah which shows the parallel literary structure. Jonah: The Parallel Narrative About God’s Compassion First Commission (Chs. 1&2) Commission (1:1,2) Jonah’s Disobedience (1:3) God’s Judgment on Jonah (1:4-17) Jonah’s Prayer (2:1-9) God Delivers Jonah (2:10) Second Commission (Chs. 3&4) Commission (3:1) Jonah’s Obedience (3:2-4) God’s Judgment on Nineveh Averted (3:5-10) Jonah’s Prayer (4:1-3) God Rebukes Jonah (4:4-11) “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

First Commission Commission 1:1,2
Jonah Message First Commission Commission 1:1,2 The word of the Lord came to Jonah Go preach against Nineveh “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

First Commission Jonah’s Disobedience 1:3
Message First Commission Jonah’s Disobedience 1:3 Ran away from the Lord Headed to Tarshish; not Nineveh Boarded a boat manned by pagan sailors “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

First Commission God’s Judgment on Jonah 1:4-17
Message First Commission God’s Judgment on Jonah 1:4-17 Violent storm rose Sailors cast lots and the lot fell to Jonah Sailors threw Jonah overboard at his request Sea grew calm Sailors feared the Lord Jonah swallowed by a great fish “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

First Commission Jonah’s Prayer 2:1-9
Message First Commission Jonah’s Prayer 2:1-9 “From the belly of the fish Jonah prayed to the Lord his God.” 2:1 “In my distress I prayed to the Lord and he answered me.” “When my life was ebbing away I remembered you, Lord” “Salvation comes from the Lord” “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

First Commission God Delivers Jonah’s 2:10
Message First Commission God Delivers Jonah’s 2:10 “And the Lord commanded the fish, and it vomited Jonah onto dry land.” 2:10 “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Second Commission The Commission 3:1,2
Jonah Message Second Commission The Commission 3:1,2 Then the word of the Lord came to Jonah a second time: “Go to the great city of Nineveh and proclaim to it the message I give you.” Jonah 3:1,2 “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Second Commission Jonah’s Obedience 3:3,4
Message “Forty more days and Nineveh will be overthrown.” Second Commission Jonah’s Obedience 3:3,4 “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Second Commission God’s Judgment on Nineveh Averted 3:4-10
Jonah Message Second Commission God’s Judgment on Nineveh Averted 3:4-10 Contrast Ninevites’ response to Jonah’s. Believed God Fasted Put on sackcloth King decreed city-wide repentance God relented “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Second Commission Jonah’s Prayer 4:1-3
Message Second Commission Jonah’s Prayer 4:1-3 He prayed to the Lord, “Isn’t this what I said, Lord, when I was still at home? That is what I tried to forestall by fleeing to Tarshish. I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2 Jonah was angry (4:1) He knew the Lord was compassionate and would relent of judgment (4:2) Jonah wanted to die (4:3) “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Second Commission God Rebukes Jonah 4:4-11
Message Second Commission God Rebukes Jonah 4:4-11 Jonah(still angry) waited to see what would happen to Nineveh (4:5) Object lesson: the Lord, Jonah, the vine and Nineveh (4:6-8) “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Second Commission God Rebukes Jonah 4:4-11
Message Second Commission God Rebukes Jonah 4:4-11 Jonah became angry to the point of death over the death of a mere plant but didn’t care at all for the thousands of people in Nineveh The Lord’s compassion withheld judgment on Nineveh due to the peoples’ repentance at Jonah’s preaching “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Jonah is Alluded to but not Quoted in the New Testament
The sign of the prophet Jonah is mentioned in three New Testament texts: Matthew 12:38-41 Matthew 16:1-4 Luke 11:29-32 In each case, the Pharisees, Sadducees or the crowd ask Jesus for a sign from heaven Jesus compared himself to only one prophet – Jonah “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Jesus Applies the “Sign of Jonah” in Different Ways
New Testament Jesus Applies the “Sign of Jonah” in Different Ways In Matthew 12:38-41 Jesus links Jonah’s three days and nights in the belly of the fish with this own time in the ‘heart of the earth’ In Matthew 16:1-4 Jesus tells his inquirers that the sign of Jonah is the only sign they will get In Luke 11:29-32 Jesus claims that as the preaching of Jonah was a sign of God to Nineveh so is his preaching a sign to this generation “… something greater than Jonah is here.” “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

What Do We Learn From Jonah?
Application What Do We Learn From Jonah? Compassion is a divine attribute The Lord’s compassion for people exceeds ours How do you demonstrate the Lord’s compassion to others? “I knew that you are a gracious and compassionate God, slow to anger and abounding in love, a God who relents from sending calamity.” Jonah 4:2b

Micah: Three Oracles of Judgment and Future Hope
Summary Micah: Three Oracles of Judgment and Future Hope Micah’s three prophetic addresses ( 1:2; 3:1; 6:1) describe present corruption, announce imminent judgment and promise a glorious future. Each address is unique from the standpoint of its target audience, contents, tone and point of view. The first address announces a general judgment upon Israel and Judah (represented by their capitals Samaria and Jerusalem) because of their sins (Chs. 1-2). The second address pronounces divine judgment upon the leaders of the nation, the wicked princes and false prophets (Ch. 3) and then announces a future hope of the Messianic kingdom (Chs. 4-5). The final address admonishes the people to repent and promises hope of future deliverance and salvation (Chs. 6-7). “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah Prophesized During the Rule of Three Judean Kings
Background Micah Prophesized During the Rule of Three Judean Kings The word of the Lord that came to Micah of Moresheth during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah… Micah 1:1 Fall of Samaria 722 BC Jotham BC Ahaz BC Hezekiah BC Assyrian Army Approaching Jerusalem 701 BC “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah Prophesied Around the Time of Jonah, Amos, Hosea, and Isaiah
Background Micah Prophesied Around the Time of Jonah, Amos, Hosea, and Isaiah 770 760 750 740 730 720 710 700 690 Jonah Isaiah Micah Hosea To Judah To Israel Amos To Nineveh “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah Clearly Tells Us the Purpose of His Message
Analysis Micah Clearly Tells Us the Purpose of His Message But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin Micah 3:8 “His message was that the people, particularly the upper class, were guilty of injustice (2:1-2; 3:1-3, 9-11; 6:10-11).” Hill and Walton “A Survey of the Old Testament” “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah Analysis Micah’s Structure Micah did not speak these oracles at one time. They are a collection of his life’s work The oracles are introduced the word “hear” (1:2; 3:1; 6:1) The oracles are not chronologically arranged The structure of Micah is roughly based on alternating messages of doom and hope “Each division contains a description of the present corruption, an announcement of imminent judgment and promises of a glorious future” H.E. Freeman “Introduction to the Old Testament Prophets” “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah’s Oracles of Judgment and Hope
Analysis Micah’s Oracles of Judgment and Hope Heading (1:1) Samaria and Jerusalem (1:2-3:13) The judgments (1:2-16) Reason for the judgments (2:1-11) Words of hope (2:11-12) The Leaders (3:1-5:15) The judgments (3:1-12) Words of hope : messianic kingdom (4:1-5:15) The People (6:1-7:20) The judgments (6:1-16) Micah’s lament (7:1-7) Words of hope (7:8-20) “The book consists of three prophetic addresses clearly distinguished from one another by the introductory word ‘hear’ (1:2; 3:1;6:1)” H.E. Freeman “Introduction to the Old Testament Prophets” “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Notice the Contrast Between The Prophets and Micah
Analysis Notice the Contrast Between The Prophets and Micah This is what the Lord says: “As for the prophets who lead my people astray, they proclaim ‘peace’ if they have something to eat, but prepare to wage war against anyone who refuses to feed them. Therefore night will come over you, without visions, and darkness, without divination. The sun will set for the prophets, and the day will go dark for them. The seers will be ashamed and the diviners disgraced. They will all cover their faces because there is no answer from God.” Micah 3:5-7 But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin Micah 3:8 “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

The Reasons for Judgment are Two: Social Injustice and Idolatry
Micah Analysis The Reasons for Judgment are Two: Social Injustice and Idolatry Idolatry Constructed idols and sacred images (1:7) Practiced witchcraft (5:12) Use images and carved stones and Asherah poles in worship (5:13,14) Social injustice Leaders rob people of their inheritance (2:1-2) Leaders hate good and love evil (3:1-3,9) Leaders, priests and prophets take bribes (3:11; 7:3) Businessmen dishonest (6:10-12) “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

The Reasons for Hope are Found in the Messianic Kingdom
Micah Analysis The Reasons for Hope are Found in the Messianic Kingdom “Their king will pass before them, the Lord at their head.” 2:11-12 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.: 5:2 “You will again have compassion on us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all of our iniquities into the depths of the sea. You will be true to Jacob and show mercy to Abraham as you pledged on oath to our fathers in days long ago.” 7:19,20 “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah Prophesies Judgment Tempered with Hope
Analysis 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Micah Prophesies Judgment Tempered with Hope Judgment: 59% Hope: 41% “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah’s Message Micah Message
Micah’s message is primarily concerned with judgment against the sin of Israel and Judah. The sin is national (1:5-7); social and economic (2:1-2), civic (3:1-3) and religious extending to both prophets (2:6-11) and priests (3:11). However, in full view of this sin the religious ritual appears to be thriving (6:6-7) and is inconsistent with the Lord’s desires of justice, mercy and humility (6:8). Micah’s secondary message is one of future hope and deliverance (2:1-13; 7:18-20; 5:1-2) “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah’s Prophecies are from the Lord
I. Heading 1:1 Message Micah’s Prophecies are from the Lord The word of the Lord that came to Micah of Moresheth during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah—the vision he saw concerning Samaria and Jerusalem Micah 1:1 What – the word of the Lord: the vision concerning Samaria and Jerusalem Who – Micah Where - Moreshety When – during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah ( BC) “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

The Transgressions of Jacob and Sins of Israel
II. Samaria and Jerusalem A. The Judgments 1:2-16 Message The Transgressions of Jacob and Sins of Israel Because of the transgressions of Jacob and the sins of Israel the Lord will come down from his dwelling place and visit judgment on these two nations (1:2-5). Israel will be destroyed (1:6-7) – her sins are incurable. Judah has been infected. She will be attacked as well (1:8-16). “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Judgment for Robbing People’s Inheritance
II. Samaria and Jerusalem B. Reasons 2:1-11 Message Judgment for Robbing People’s Inheritance The judgment of God will fall on Israel and Judah because wealthy land owners unjust activity (2:1-2) – they rob the people of their inheritance: their land. As a judgment Israel will lose its land to an alien power (2:3-5). God’s judgment will fall on those prophets whose false utterances support the land robbers (2:6-11). “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Future Hope: Restoration of the People
II. Samaria and Jerusalem B. Hope 2:12-13 Message Future Hope: Restoration of the People See 2:3-5 about the judgment of losing the land. The future hope is expressed as a re-gathering of the people by a messianic king. “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

III. The Leaders A. Judgments 3:1-12 Message The Leaders’ Judgment With three small oracles (3:1-4; 5-; 9-12) Micah focuses on the leaders and prophets of the nation whose policies and prophecies serve to promote social and economic injustice. Note the contrast between the establishment prophets (3:5-7) whom the Lord refuse to communicate with and Micah (3:8) who is filled with the Spirit and power of the Lord. The last oracle in the series (3:9-12) describes the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

The Hope of a Messianic Kingdom
III. The Leaders B. Hope 4:1-5:15 Message The Hope of a Messianic Kingdom This hope oracle is a response to the judgment on Jerusalem and the temple (3:12) The Lord will provide a messianic restoration of the temple and the nations will gather to hear God’s word (4:1-5). Judah will return from exile and crush her enemies (4:6-13). A messianic king will play the central role in the restoration (5:1-6). The remnant of Jacob will destroy her enemies (5:7-9) The Lord will purge the idolatry from the land (5:10-14) and take vengeance on rebellious nations (5:15) “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

The Lord’s Accusations for the People
IV. The People A. Judgments 6:1-16 Message The Lord’s Accusations for the People The Lord brings a charge against his people and asks the mountains to hear his case (6:1-3). The Lord’s offenses includes the exodus, the manipulation of curses to blessing of Balaam and the journey into the promised land (6;4-5). The people’s defenses is in their abundant sacrifices and offerings – rivers of olive oil (6:6-7). The Lord responds that he prefers justice, mercy and humility (6:8). Because of their unjust and unmerciful actions the Lord will bring destruction upon them (6:9-16) “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah’s Anguish at the Evil in the Land
IV. The People B. Micah’s Lament 7:1-7 Message Micah’s Anguish at the Evil in the Land All the righteous people are gone. No one can be trusted – not even family (7:1-7). But Micah has hope in the Lord and waits for God his savior (7:8). “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Restoration, Forgiveness and Covenant
IV. The People C. Hope 7:8-20 Message Restoration, Forgiveness and Covenant The Lord will restore the people from exile (7:8-13). Micah’s prays that the Lord will “shepherd” his people (7:14). The nations who opposed Israel will be brought low (7:15-17). The Lord who is gracious and compassionate, will forgive Israel’s sin (7:18-19) and Israel will be faithful to the covenant made with Jacob and Abraham (7:20). The phrase in 7:18 “who is a God like you” reflects the meaning of Micah’s name. “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Micah Is Quoted Twice by Matthew
New Testament Micah Is Quoted Twice by Matthew Micah Text New Testament 5:2 “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.” Matt 2:6 “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” 7:6 "For a son dishonors his father, a daughter rises up against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law— a man’s enemies are the members of his own household.” Matt 10:35,36 For I have come to turn a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—a man’s enemies will be the members of his own household. “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8

Worship Devoid of Justice is Futile
Micah Application Worship Devoid of Justice is Futile “Micah labored to impress Israel with the truth that certain principles of righteous conduct were required of men not the mere exercise of external ritual.” H.E. Freeman “Introduction to the Old Testament Prophets” With what shall I come before the Lord and bow down before the exalted God? Shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, with ten thousand rivers of olive oil? Shall I offer my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. “But as for me, I am filled with power, with the Spirit of the Lord, and with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his transgression, to Israel his sin.” Micah 3:8 “His message was that the people, particularly the upper class, were guilty of injustice (2:1-2; 3:1-3, 9-11; 6:10-11).” Hill and Walton “A Survey of the Old Testament”

TEST A prophet is one who: Foretells the word of God by predicting the future Forgets himself in the presence of God Fosters distrust among the kings and priests Forth-tells the word of God by denouncing sin, proclaiming judgment, pleading for repentance and encouraging obedience None of the above

Obadiah’s message was to:
TEST Obadiah’s message was to: Pronounce judgment on Edom for not allowing Israel to pass through their land during the exodus Clarify the historical origins of Edom and Israel Warn Edom against raiding Judah Settle a boundary dispute between Edom and Israel Pronounce judgment on Edom for aiding Babylon during the destruction of Jerusalem

Jonah’s message was to:
TEST Jonah’s message was to: Show that God gives all of us a second chance Demonstrate that God is free to change his mind Reveal that the words of a prophet do not always come true Explain that God’s compassion for people far exceeds that of humans Contrast the Jews, who rarely obeyed prophetic message to the Gentiles who repented

Micah’s message was to:
TEST Micah’s message was to: Increase the number of animals used for sacrifices Show that righteous conduct was required of the people of God and not just the exercise of religious ritual Rebuke the priests and Levites for their laxity Encourage Israel to keep the covenant between them and the Lord None of the above

Three Minor Prophets Obadiah, Jonah, Micah

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Three Minor Prophets Obadiah, Jonah, Micah

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