Prophesying at the same time as the prophet Isaiah, Micah addresses the coming destruction of the northern kingdom of Israel by the Assyrians, while also giving a challenge to the southern kingdom. In the midst of his rebuke against the rulers, Micah speaks of God teaching His people and a promised ruler arising from Bethlehem.
Micah 1-5
Sermon OutlinE
“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.” (Micah 5:2)
Introducing Micah
Prophesying Doom Amidst Failed Leaders (Micah 1-3)
Prophesying Hope Amidst the Last Days (Micah 4-5)
The Good News of Micah and Messiah
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- This week we continue our series, “God in the Ruins: The Message of the Minor Prophets,” by looking at the prophet Micah. Before you begin this study, ask God to speak to you through His word.
- Read Micah 1:1. Background: Micah prophesied to both the northern and southern kingdoms during the reigns of kings Jotham (742-735 BC), Ahaz (735-715 BC), and Hezekiah (715-686 BC). He witnesses the fall of Samaria and the northern kingdom in 722 BC, but also speaks about the coming exile for the southern kingdom, which happens after his ministry. He is from Moresheth Gath, about 20 miles southwest of Jerusalem.
- Read Micah 1:2-7 and summarize what Micah declares will happen to Samaria and the northern kingdom of Israel. Why does he say this will happen?
- Now read Micah 1:8-16. Micah declares here that the destruction in the northern kingdom of Israel will spread to the southern kingdom of Judah as well. He describes stronghold cities that surround his hometown of Moresheth of slowly being overcome. What will be the outcome according to verse 16?
- One of the great reasons for this destruction on northern and southern kingdoms is failed leadership. Read Micah 2:6-11 and 3:1-12. In what ways have the leaders, priests, and prophets failed to uphold their duties?
- What do these verses convey about God’s expectations of those serving in leadership?
- Read Micah 4:1-8 about God’s promise of restoration for His people. What will that restoration involve?
- Now read Micah 5:2-6 about God’s promised Messiah. What will the Messiah be like? How will the Messiah relate to God’s promised restoration in Micah 4?
- In Matthew 2:4-6, we are told that Jesus is the fulfillment of the Messianic promises of Micah 5. Reflecting upon Jesus’ life and ministry, in what ways would you say Jesus fulfills Micah’s words (use Scripture references if possible)?
- What is one thing God is speaking to you through this first week of studying the prophet Micah? If you are on your own, write that down. If you are in a small group, discuss your answers with one another. Close in prayer. Choose one person in your life with whom you will share something you have learned about God this week.