The Book of Micah

Written by Heather Zempel | September 3, 2010 | Micah 1 - 3

Here are the quick facts on the book of Micah:

Date: prophesied in Judah during the reigns of Jothan, Ahaz and Hezekiah; was a contemporary of Isaiah and Hosea

Name: means “poor” or “humble,” or “who is like Jehovah”

Message: Micah’s message was to both Israel and Judah and was addressed primarily to their capitals, Samaria and Jerusalem. Three main ideas are addressed in Micah, with abrupt transitions between present desolation and future glory: (1) the sins of Samaria and Jerusalem; (2) the destruction of the cities; and (3) their restoration. Micah speaks out against idolatry and against the manner by which the ruling classes in both cities were treating the poor.

Application: The key verse is Micah 6:8: “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” This instruction remains valid for us today.

As you read through the book of Micah, think about what it means practically to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.