Getting to Know the ProphetsSample

Micah

The purpose of the Israelites’ judgment, prophesied by Micah, was not permanent destruction, nor was it a flashing moment of anger. God is patient. For centuries, He sent many prophets to warn His people and call them to repentance, to no avail. His people were to be pure and set apart; there was purpose in their purification and holiness. In His love and kindness, He did not tolerate their disobedience. After the judgment, God promised restoration for His people.

Micah 4 and 5 give us a glimpse of the future hope of Israel. In Micah’s message, we saw God promise to gather His people, the "remnant," from their exile state and unite them under a new ruler. Their new ruler came from Bethlehem and was a shepherd-king, gathering, protecting, uniting, and loving His sheep. Sound familiar?

In Micah 6 and 7, Micah gave the final accusations against the Israelites and called them to the same thing we are called to today: “Do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8).

1. What is the difference between God’s use of discipline and trials in our lives regarding our sin?

2. Read John 15:1–17. What does this Scripture reveal about our purpose as Christ-followers?

Prayer: Spend time praising our shepherd-king, Jesus Christ, and the salvation and hope we have in Him.