The Book of Micah contains prophecy directed at both Samaria (Israel) and Jerusalem (Judah) by the prophet Micah, who lived in Judah during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.

Micah’s first prophecy predicted the destruction of both Samaria (the Northern kingdom of Israel) and Jerusalem (the Southern kingdom of Judah) due to the idolatrous ways of the people. He was irate over their cruel business ethics: “And they covet fields and seize them, houses and take them away” (2:2). Micah was a powerful advocate for the people, and he opposed the corrupt courts and the “professional prophets.”

But in the end of days it shall come to pass that the mountain of God’s House shall stand firm above the mountains … And many nations shall go and say ‘Come, let us go up to the Mountain of God, and to the house of the God of Jacob; and He will teach us His ways, and we will walk in His paths. Out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of God from Jerusalem (4:1-2). So begins Micah’s messianic prophecy, foretelling of the gathering of the exiles and the destruction of our enemies. Micah focused much of his redemption prophecy on a great king who will come out of Judah.

Returning to words of condemnation, God demands to know: “O My people, what have I done to you? What hardship have I caused you? Testify against me” (6:3).

The Book of Micah concludes with a lament on the destruction that is to come, how people will be unable to trust even their closest relatives and how desolate the land will be until God calls back His people and they return to Him with true faith and awe.

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