Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

God Rebukes Leaders and Prophets
Read Micah 3:1-12

Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price, and her prophets tell fortunes for money. Yet they lean upon the LORD and say, “Is not the LORD among us? No disaster will come upon us.” Micah 3:11

God places a heavy responsibility on leaders and prophets. They are chosen for a purpose - to lead by example and to guide the people in God’s ways and to fulfill God’s purposes. In the book of Micah, God is angry with the leaders and prophets because they have failed miserably. They have duped the people and led them astray.

When spiritual leaders and prophets of God default in their responsibility, God will hold them accountable and His judgment will be severe.

The false prophet will only speak what the people want to hear - soothing and pleasant words that give a false sense of peace and consolation that all is well. The false prophet aspires to be popular and accepted. God’s people are therefore lulled into complacency by deception.

Conversely, the true prophet of God speaks to shock more than to edify. 'The true prophet is therefore often seen as horrid, slashing and offensive. The most common accusation levelled against him is that he is unloving. He will often send people home jarred and disquieted about their spiritual condition.' (The Voice of the Prophet: Arthur Kartz)

God will judge His leaders who abuse their powers or distort the truth for their own selfish gain.

Word - centredness, accountability, transparency and plurality of leadership are safeguards against spiritual abuses and deception by leaders and prophets. Pray for pastors and leaders that they will fear God and live blamelessly. Pray that they will not compromise God’s truth in exchange for popular acclaim or private gain.