E455 Navigating the Bible: Micah

Where is another God like you who Where is another God like you who pardons [music] the guilt of the pardons [music] the guilt of the pardons [music] the guilt of the remnant, overlooking the sins of his remnant, overlooking the sins of his remnant, overlooking the sins of his special people? special people? special people? You [music] will not stay angry with You [music] will not stay angry with You [music] will not stay angry with your people forever because you delight your people forever because you delight your people forever because you delight in showing unfailing [music] in showing unfailing [music] in showing unfailing [music] love. love. love. Micah 7 18. Micah 7 18. Micah 7 18. The book of Micah may not be [music] the The book of Micah may not be [music] the The book of Micah may not be [music] the most well-known of the Old Testament, most well-known of the Old Testament, most well-known of the Old Testament, but it has some of the most well-known but it has some of the most well-known but it has some of the most well-known verses [music] and passages. verses [music] and passages. verses [music] and passages. Micah takes on the same challenge as Micah takes on the same challenge as Micah takes on the same challenge as many of the other prophets, sharing many of the other prophets, sharing many of the other prophets, sharing God's message of both judgment [music] God's message of both judgment [music] God's message of both judgment [music] and hope. and hope. and hope. What makes this book unique, however, is What makes this book unique, however, is What makes this book unique, however, is the pointedness of his message. Micah the pointedness of his message. Micah the pointedness of his message. Micah calls out wealthy oppressors and false calls out wealthy oppressors and false calls out wealthy oppressors and false prophets. He calls out the [music] prophets. He calls out the [music] prophets. He calls out the [music] corrupt leaders and how that corruption corrupt leaders and how that corruption corrupt leaders and how that corruption of the leaders has infected the of the leaders has infected the of the leaders has infected the citizens.

citizens. citizens. His judgment is pointed. [music] Yes, His judgment is pointed. [music] Yes, His judgment is pointed. [music] Yes, but so is the message of restoration and but so is the message of restoration and but so is the message of restoration and hope. hope. hope. There's the famous passage [music] from There's the famous passage [music] from There's the famous passage [music] from Micah 6:8 which says, "The Lord has told Micah 6:8 which says, "The Lord has told Micah 6:8 which says, "The Lord has told you what is good and that [music] and you what is good and that [music] and you what is good and that [music] and this is what he requires of you to do this is what he requires of you to do this is what he requires of you to do what is right, to love [music] mercy, what is right, to love [music] mercy, what is right, to love [music] mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." and to walk humbly with your God." and to walk humbly with your God." Micah has a message that continues Micah has a message that continues Micah has a message that continues [music] [music] [music] to resonate today. And to help us to resonate today. And to help us to resonate today. And to help us navigate this book is Dr. Sher Clauda navigate this book is Dr. Sher Clauda navigate this book is Dr. Sher Clauda Sharp. Sherry is currently serving as project Sherry is currently serving as project manager at Lifeway while working on two manager at Lifeway while working on two manager at Lifeway while working on two commentaries. commentaries. commentaries. One on Ezra Nehemiah for Lifeway and one One on Ezra Nehemiah for Lifeway and one One on Ezra Nehemiah for Lifeway and one on [music] Micah for Zanderan. on [music] Micah for Zanderan. on [music] Micah for Zanderan. My name is Jason Wheatland and this is My name is Jason Wheatland and this is My name is Jason Wheatland and this is doable disciplehip. [music] doable disciplehip. [music] doable disciplehip. [music] Navigating the Bible. Micah.

All right. I'm joined today by Sher All right. I'm joined today by Sher Cloud Sharp who's going to be here to Cloud Sharp who's going to be here to Cloud Sharp who's going to be here to help us navigate this book of Micah. help us navigate this book of Micah. help us navigate this book of Micah. We're like pretty much kind of in the We're like pretty much kind of in the We're like pretty much kind of in the middle of of our time with the prophets middle of of our time with the prophets middle of of our time with the prophets now. We've only got a few more left. And now. We've only got a few more left. And now. We've only got a few more left. And so, Sher, thanks for being here to help so, Sher, thanks for being here to help so, Sher, thanks for being here to help us uh go through the book of Micah. us uh go through the book of Micah. us uh go through the book of Micah. >> Well, you're very welcome. I appreciate >> Well, you're very welcome. I appreciate >> Well, you're very welcome. I appreciate being here, being here, being here, >> of course. So, let's start with the >> of course. So, let's start with the >> of course. So, let's start with the basic details as we do so we can get our basic details as we do so we can get our basic details as we do so we can get our legs underneath us, if you will. Um, legs underneath us, if you will. Um, legs underneath us, if you will. Um, let's start with this. Do we know who let's start with this. Do we know who let's start with this. Do we know who wrote the book of Micah and when it was wrote the book of Micah and when it was wrote the book of Micah and when it was written? And then let's frame it with written? And then let's frame it with written? And then let's frame it with how does knowing these things or not how does knowing these things or not how does knowing these things or not knowing these things in some cases, how knowing these things in some cases, how knowing these things in some cases, how does it affect how we read the book? does it affect how we read the book? does it affect how we read the book? Um well um it is traditionally Um well um it is traditionally Um well um it is traditionally understood that the prophet Micah wrote understood that the prophet Micah wrote understood that the prophet Micah wrote the book of Micah. Although of course um the book of Micah. Although of course um the book of Micah. Although of course um depending on who you talk to there are depending on who you talk to there are depending on who you talk to there are various people who would suggest that um various people who would suggest that um various people who would suggest that um Micah only wrote certain parts and some Micah only wrote certain parts and some Micah only wrote certain parts and some other editors came in and fixed some other editors came in and fixed some other editors came in and fixed some things and changed some things, inserted things and changed some things, inserted things and changed some things, inserted some things and so on um to give the some things and so on um to give the some things and so on um to give the book um you know some kind of sense of book um you know some kind of sense of book um you know some kind of sense of cohesion. Um so from a traditional cohesion. Um so from a traditional cohesion. Um so from a traditional standpoint I affirm Micah as the author.

standpoint I affirm Micah as the author. standpoint I affirm Micah as the author. He probably um issued these different He probably um issued these different He probably um issued these different declarations and prophecies uh during declarations and prophecies uh during declarations and prophecies uh during the 8th century. Um we know this because the 8th century. Um we know this because the 8th century. Um we know this because um in the beginning of the book he um in the beginning of the book he um in the beginning of the book he mentions three kings under whom he is mentions three kings under whom he is mentions three kings under whom he is prophesying. And so we have a good idea prophesying. And so we have a good idea prophesying. And so we have a good idea that he's probably prophesying sometime that he's probably prophesying sometime that he's probably prophesying sometime between 750 and 686 BC. between 750 and 686 BC. between 750 and 686 BC. >> Okay. three kings. So, it's over a long >> Okay. three kings. So, it's over a long >> Okay. three kings. So, it's over a long period of time. period of time. period of time. >> Yeah, it's a long period of time. We're >> Yeah, it's a long period of time. We're >> Yeah, it's a long period of time. We're seeing a lot of stuff. So, it's it's an seeing a lot of stuff. So, it's it's an seeing a lot of stuff. So, it's it's an interesting case where, as you said, interesting case where, as you said, interesting case where, as you said, it's over a long period of time. We get it's over a long period of time. We get it's over a long period of time. We get these three different kings that are these three different kings that are these three different kings that are being mentioned. So, it's it's being mentioned. So, it's it's being mentioned. So, it's it's interesting how God is using Micah to interesting how God is using Micah to interesting how God is using Micah to give almost like a longer message. He's give almost like a longer message. He's give almost like a longer message. He's like, I want you to talk about this like, I want you to talk about this like, I want you to talk about this person and this person and and this person and this person and and this person and this person and and this person. [laughter] person. [laughter] person. [laughter] Well, what it is is that he actually is Well, what it is is that he actually is Well, what it is is that he actually is straddling a straddling two situations. straddling a straddling two situations. straddling a straddling two situations. Okay? So, Okay? So, Okay? So, >> um the um the northern kingdom or the 10 >> um the um the northern kingdom or the 10 >> um the um the northern kingdom or the 10 tribes of Israel have already been tribes of Israel have already been tribes of Israel have already been attacked by Assyria attacked by Assyria attacked by Assyria >> and so many of those people have been um >> and so many of those people have been um >> and so many of those people have been um taken into captivity and um relocated taken into captivity and um relocated taken into captivity and um relocated and so on. at this point, Judah or um and so on. at this point, Judah or um and so on. at this point, Judah or um the southern kingdom and the other two the southern kingdom and the other two the southern kingdom and the other two tribes, they're relatively unscathed.

tribes, they're relatively unscathed. tribes, they're relatively unscathed. >> Uh probably we have some folks who um >> Uh probably we have some folks who um >> Uh probably we have some folks who um who escaped to Judah during that time of who escaped to Judah during that time of who escaped to Judah during that time of the attacks by Assyria. the attacks by Assyria. the attacks by Assyria. And so Micah is straddling the time And so Micah is straddling the time And so Micah is straddling the time period between the captivity of the period between the captivity of the period between the captivity of the northern kingdom and um and before the northern kingdom and um and before the northern kingdom and um and before the captivity and destruction of the captivity and destruction of the captivity and destruction of the southern kingdom. So he's in between southern kingdom. So he's in between southern kingdom. So he's in between both time periods both time periods both time periods >> in he's in between both. So so so where >> in he's in between both. So so so where >> in he's in between both. So so so where does this fit in? So we just talked does this fit in? So we just talked does this fit in? So we just talked about Jonah. So So where does this fit about Jonah. So So where does this fit about Jonah. So So where does this fit in in the in the timeline around Jonah? in in the in the timeline around Jonah? in in the in the timeline around Jonah? Well, Jonah's Jonah is immediately Well, Jonah's Jonah is immediately Well, Jonah's Jonah is immediately preceding the um destruction of Nineveh. preceding the um destruction of Nineveh. preceding the um destruction of Nineveh. Yeah. As we know. Um but uh as far as Yeah. As we know. Um but uh as far as Yeah. As we know. Um but uh as far as where they place it in the cannon, they where they place it in the cannon, they where they place it in the cannon, they just place it in the cannon. You know, just place it in the cannon. You know, just place it in the cannon. You know, there are different different um schemes there are different different um schemes there are different different um schemes where they place it. But generally where they place it. But generally where they place it. But generally speaking, after Amos and Hosea speaking, after Amos and Hosea speaking, after Amos and Hosea >> um but before and perhaps some in in the >> um but before and perhaps some in in the >> um but before and perhaps some in in the um Hebrew Bible, I think it's be it's uh um Hebrew Bible, I think it's be it's uh um Hebrew Bible, I think it's be it's uh after Jonah.

after Jonah. after Jonah. >> Gotcha. uh in the way it's arranged, but >> Gotcha. uh in the way it's arranged, but >> Gotcha. uh in the way it's arranged, but the arrangement really doesn't have a the arrangement really doesn't have a the arrangement really doesn't have a lot to do with the historical time lot to do with the historical time lot to do with the historical time period that the prophet is working in. period that the prophet is working in. period that the prophet is working in. >> No, it doesn't. It kind of jumps around >> No, it doesn't. It kind of jumps around >> No, it doesn't. It kind of jumps around a bit. And I think that's helpful for a bit. And I think that's helpful for a bit. And I think that's helpful for the reader to know, especially if you're the reader to know, especially if you're the reader to know, especially if you're going through and reading the Old going through and reading the Old going through and reading the Old Testament for the first time because for Testament for the first time because for Testament for the first time because for a while, you know, at the beginning of a while, you know, at the beginning of a while, you know, at the beginning of the Old Testament, you're going somewhat the Old Testament, you're going somewhat the Old Testament, you're going somewhat chronologically. You're kind of going chronologically. You're kind of going chronologically. You're kind of going through and then you get to these through and then you get to these through and then you get to these prophets and then you go back in time a prophets and then you go back in time a prophets and then you go back in time a bit and then and then these prophets bit and then and then these prophets bit and then and then these prophets kind of jump around in time. So, kind of jump around in time. So, kind of jump around in time. So, >> well, and that's why like a lot of times >> well, and that's why like a lot of times >> well, and that's why like a lot of times when I'm trying to teach an overview of when I'm trying to teach an overview of when I'm trying to teach an overview of the Old Testament, I make a timeline the Old Testament, I make a timeline the Old Testament, I make a timeline >> and then I put where the different books >> and then I put where the different books >> and then I put where the different books are in the timeline. Yeah. are in the timeline. Yeah. are in the timeline. Yeah. >> Because, you know, you get to first and >> Because, you know, you get to first and >> Because, you know, you get to first and second Kings and that covers a whole second Kings and that covers a whole second Kings and that covers a whole long period, but then you got to put the long period, but then you got to put the long period, but then you got to put the prophets in there in between different prophets in there in between different prophets in there in between different places and so on. Y places and so on. Y places and so on. Y >> and uh that's very helpful for uh people >> and uh that's very helpful for uh people >> and uh that's very helpful for uh people that are trying to read the Old that are trying to read the Old that are trying to read the Old Testament and especially the confusion Testament and especially the confusion Testament and especially the confusion between Israel as Israel is 12 tribes between Israel as Israel is 12 tribes between Israel as Israel is 12 tribes and then when they divide up into 10 and and then when they divide up into 10 and and then when they divide up into 10 and two then when you say Israel well are two then when you say Israel well are two then when you say Israel well are you talking about the northern tribes you talking about the northern tribes you talking about the northern tribes are you talking about all of them?

are you talking about all of them? are you talking about all of them? >> Yeah. Yep. Um yeah, another helpful >> Yeah. Yep. Um yeah, another helpful >> Yeah. Yep. Um yeah, another helpful tool, this is something we have not tool, this is something we have not tool, this is something we have not really talked about on this podcast, is really talked about on this podcast, is really talked about on this podcast, is you can get chronological Bibles and you can get chronological Bibles and you can get chronological Bibles and have that as a resource if you want and have that as a resource if you want and have that as a resource if you want and have that as something that that you can have that as something that that you can have that as something that that you can be walking along with too. So, so that's be walking along with too. So, so that's be walking along with too. So, so that's just something that you can look up uh just something that you can look up uh just something that you can look up uh as well at home because yes, we're in as well at home because yes, we're in as well at home because yes, we're in the middle of these prophets and they do the middle of these prophets and they do the middle of these prophets and they do tend to jump around. Um so, okay. tend to jump around. Um so, okay. tend to jump around. Um so, okay. So, so Micah straddling uh what is going So, so Micah straddling uh what is going So, so Micah straddling uh what is going on between the northern kingdom and the on between the northern kingdom and the on between the northern kingdom and the southern kingdom. We've kind of got that southern kingdom. We've kind of got that southern kingdom. We've kind of got that he is talking about these three he is talking about these three he is talking about these three different kings. So, let's get into what different kings. So, let's get into what different kings. So, let's get into what the book of Micah is saying. How would the book of Micah is saying. How would the book of Micah is saying. How would you describe the book of Micah in one you describe the book of Micah in one you describe the book of Micah in one sentence? sentence? sentence? Um well um the book primarily sum um Um well um the book primarily sum um Um well um the book primarily sum um primarily talks about the sovereignty of primarily talks about the sovereignty of primarily talks about the sovereignty of God and it's demonstrated in the way he God and it's demonstrated in the way he God and it's demonstrated in the way he expresses his holiness as he's expresses his holiness as he's expresses his holiness as he's orchestrating history as he judges his orchestrating history as he judges his orchestrating history as he judges his people and the other nations and as he people and the other nations and as he people and the other nations and as he yet remains faithful to his covenant yet remains faithful to his covenant yet remains faithful to his covenant relationship um with Israel as in the 12 relationship um with Israel as in the 12 relationship um with Israel as in the 12 tribes of Israel.

tribes of Israel. tribes of Israel. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> All right. So, um, and this is based on >> All right. So, um, and this is based on >> All right. So, um, and this is based on what we would call his cessed, okay? And what we would call his cessed, okay? And what we would call his cessed, okay? And that's a Hebrew word which means that's a Hebrew word which means that's a Hebrew word which means covenant loyalty or covenant love. covenant loyalty or covenant love. covenant loyalty or covenant love. >> And the idea behind that is that um, one >> And the idea behind that is that um, one >> And the idea behind that is that um, one is still loyal is still loyal is still loyal >> whether or not they're obligated to be. >> whether or not they're obligated to be. >> whether or not they're obligated to be. So in other words, when the first time So in other words, when the first time So in other words, when the first time that Israel rebelled against the Lord, that Israel rebelled against the Lord, that Israel rebelled against the Lord, um she broke the covenant arrangement um she broke the covenant arrangement um she broke the covenant arrangement by um if you wanted to look at it by um if you wanted to look at it by um if you wanted to look at it strictly from a legal standpoint, at strictly from a legal standpoint, at strictly from a legal standpoint, at that point in time, God could would have that point in time, God could would have that point in time, God could would have been relieved of his obligation been relieved of his obligation been relieved of his obligation to remain faithful to them. However, um to remain faithful to them. However, um to remain faithful to them. However, um because of his because of his because of his that's covenant faithfulness that he's that's covenant faithfulness that he's that's covenant faithfulness that he's expressing towards them that he's not expressing towards them that he's not expressing towards them that he's not obligated to do so, but he chooses to do obligated to do so, but he chooses to do obligated to do so, but he chooses to do so anyway. so anyway. so anyway. >> Yeah. Okay. So, that gives us a good >> Yeah. Okay. So, that gives us a good >> Yeah. Okay. So, that gives us a good picture of what we're getting into. So, picture of what we're getting into. So, picture of what we're getting into. So, let's talk about the flow of this book.

let's talk about the flow of this book. let's talk about the flow of this book. This book is seven chapters long. So, so This book is seven chapters long. So, so This book is seven chapters long. So, so what can you tell us about the what can you tell us about the what can you tell us about the trajectory of the book? What's happening trajectory of the book? What's happening trajectory of the book? What's happening from chapter 1 to chapter 7? from chapter 1 to chapter 7? from chapter 1 to chapter 7? >> Okay. Um well the structure of the book >> Okay. Um well the structure of the book >> Okay. Um well the structure of the book um from a big perspective or a larger um from a big perspective or a larger um from a big perspective or a larger pers perspective is a division into pers perspective is a division into pers perspective is a division into three cycles three cycles three cycles >> and in these cycles are identified by >> and in these cycles are identified by >> and in these cycles are identified by the imperative or the command to hear or the imperative or the command to hear or the imperative or the command to hear or listen. We to assume to assume that the listen. We to assume to assume that the listen. We to assume to assume that the audience um is primarily made up of audience um is primarily made up of audience um is primarily made up of those who are hearing Micah speak rather those who are hearing Micah speak rather those who are hearing Micah speak rather than those who are reading written than those who are reading written than those who are reading written words. words. words. >> Mhm. And so um anything that he says >> Mhm. And so um anything that he says >> Mhm. And so um anything that he says um uh there's a sense in which it he um uh there's a sense in which it he um uh there's a sense in which it he needs to um solidify it in the minds of needs to um solidify it in the minds of needs to um solidify it in the minds of the people that are listening. In the the people that are listening. In the the people that are listening. In the first chapter he begins by um talking first chapter he begins by um talking first chapter he begins by um talking about uh the presence of the Lord and about uh the presence of the Lord and about uh the presence of the Lord and he's coming and he's angry. he's coming and he's angry. he's coming and he's angry. >> Mhm. and he's angry because the northern >> Mhm. and he's angry because the northern >> Mhm. and he's angry because the northern kingdom and their fall into idolatry and kingdom and their fall into idolatry and kingdom and their fall into idolatry and social injustice social injustice social injustice um has resulted in their judgment and um has resulted in their judgment and um has resulted in their judgment and they have influenced Judah in the same they have influenced Judah in the same they have influenced Judah in the same way. So he's indicting Samaria or the way. So he's indicting Samaria or the way. So he's indicting Samaria or the northern kingdom for their influence on northern kingdom for their influence on northern kingdom for their influence on Judah the southern kingdom. Then he Judah the southern kingdom. Then he Judah the southern kingdom. Then he proceeds in the latter part of the first proceeds in the latter part of the first proceeds in the latter part of the first chapter to um Micah has or um recites a chapter to um Micah has or um recites a chapter to um Micah has or um recites a funeral durge or like a poem funeral durge or like a poem funeral durge or like a poem >> that is mourning um what's going to

>> that is mourning um what's going to >> that is mourning um what's going to happen to Jerusalem and throughout the happen to Jerusalem and throughout the happen to Jerusalem and throughout the entire funeral poem um there are a bunch entire funeral poem um there are a bunch entire funeral poem um there are a bunch of word plays of word plays of word plays >> on names of places and what's going to >> on names of places and what's going to >> on names of places and what's going to happen or what he's telling them to do. happen or what he's telling them to do. happen or what he's telling them to do. And so that's a way that that is a And so that's a way that that is a And so that's a way that that is a scheme that's used in order to um help scheme that's used in order to um help scheme that's used in order to um help the audience to um remember and grasp the audience to um remember and grasp the audience to um remember and grasp what's being said. what's being said. what's being said. Then he begin then in chapter two we Then he begin then in chapter two we Then he begin then in chapter two we have a series of um we have a series of have a series of um we have a series of have a series of um we have a series of indictments or um uh these judgment indictments or um uh these judgment indictments or um uh these judgment speeches where um God speeches where um God speeches where um God uh accuses a group of the things they're uh accuses a group of the things they're uh accuses a group of the things they're doing wrong and then pronounces some doing wrong and then pronounces some doing wrong and then pronounces some kind of judgment on them. So, in chapter kind of judgment on them. So, in chapter kind of judgment on them. So, in chapter 2, we start out with the wealthy 2, we start out with the wealthy 2, we start out with the wealthy landowners and they are in um uh they landowners and they are in um uh they landowners and they are in um uh they are in a conspiracy with the government are in a conspiracy with the government are in a conspiracy with the government leaders and they are cheating the people leaders and they are cheating the people leaders and they are cheating the people from their they're cheating the people from their they're cheating the people from their they're cheating the people out of their property and their out of their property and their out of their property and their inheritances inheritances inheritances >> and they're doing this through the seat.

>> and they're doing this through the seat. >> and they're doing this through the seat. Um then um then a then in this after Um then um then a then in this after Um then um then a then in this after there's an announcement of judgment or there's an announcement of judgment or there's an announcement of judgment or reversal on them. In other words, what reversal on them. In other words, what reversal on them. In other words, what the what it says is that um those people the what it says is that um those people the what it says is that um those people that are deceitfully acquiring land that are deceitfully acquiring land that are deceitfully acquiring land because they're greedy and through ways because they're greedy and through ways because they're greedy and through ways that are um illegal or that they will that are um illegal or that they will that are um illegal or that they will have all of that land taken away from have all of that land taken away from have all of that land taken away from them and given to somebody else. them and given to somebody else. them and given to somebody else. >> Okay, so it's a reversal of judgment. >> Okay, so it's a reversal of judgment. >> Okay, so it's a reversal of judgment. The next part um talks about false The next part um talks about false The next part um talks about false prophets. Now some of those false prophets. Now some of those false prophets. Now some of those false prophets are probably um are probably prophets are probably um are probably prophets are probably um are probably people that have come over from the people that have come over from the people that have come over from the northern kingdom. So they are northern kingdom. So they are northern kingdom. So they are influencing the people as well as um you influencing the people as well as um you influencing the people as well as um you know internal influences. And what know internal influences. And what know internal influences. And what they're saying is don't prophesy or they're saying is don't prophesy or they're saying is don't prophesy or don't tell the people that um Judah and don't tell the people that um Judah and don't tell the people that um Judah and Jerusalem are going to be judged for Jerusalem are going to be judged for Jerusalem are going to be judged for their misbehavior, for their re their misbehavior, for their re their misbehavior, for their re rebellion and so on. But that um don't rebellion and so on. But that um don't rebellion and so on. But that um don't tell them that. just tell them that tell them that. just tell them that tell them that. just tell them that things are all going to be fine and that things are all going to be fine and that things are all going to be fine and that what they're doing is just fine.

what they're doing is just fine. what they're doing is just fine. Um and so then uh there's a judgment Um and so then uh there's a judgment Um and so then uh there's a judgment that's pronounced on um the prophets and that's pronounced on um the prophets and that's pronounced on um the prophets and they're told that this is not a place they're told that this is not a place they're told that this is not a place where they need to be and they need to where they need to be and they need to where they need to be and they need to get out of here and they need to leave. get out of here and they need to leave. get out of here and they need to leave. Um then the chapter 3 starts in again on Um then the chapter 3 starts in again on Um then the chapter 3 starts in again on the leaders and rulers of Israel. It um the leaders and rulers of Israel. It um the leaders and rulers of Israel. It um begins with the word listen or hear begins with the word listen or hear begins with the word listen or hear again. So we're starting a second cycle. again. So we're starting a second cycle. again. So we're starting a second cycle. Um the previously in the previous cycle Um the previously in the previous cycle Um the previously in the previous cycle once we have the pronouncement of once we have the pronouncement of once we have the pronouncement of judgment on um the wealthy landowners judgment on um the wealthy landowners judgment on um the wealthy landowners and the false prophets who are giving and the false prophets who are giving and the false prophets who are giving the people a message of peace or telling the people a message of peace or telling the people a message of peace or telling them something they want to hear them something they want to hear them something they want to hear >> rather than what they should be hearing. >> rather than what they should be hearing. >> rather than what they should be hearing. >> Yeah. Um then we have a little section >> Yeah. Um then we have a little section >> Yeah. Um then we have a little section which is like a salvation oracle or or which is like a salvation oracle or or which is like a salvation oracle or or an expression of hope that essentially an expression of hope that essentially an expression of hope that essentially says even though all these things are says even though all these things are says even though all these things are going so badly going so badly going so badly you know once um once you've gone you know once um once you've gone you know once um once you've gone through your punishment or divine through your punishment or divine through your punishment or divine punishment or judgment that God will punishment or judgment that God will punishment or judgment that God will enable you to be released and um he will enable you to be released and um he will enable you to be released and um he will bring you back into your land or he'll bring you back into your land or he'll bring you back into your land or he'll restore you.

restore you. restore you. So then again like I said we that starts So then again like I said we that starts So then again like I said we that starts um calling out the leaders and um those um calling out the leaders and um those um calling out the leaders and um those who are rulers in um Judah and Jerusalem who are rulers in um Judah and Jerusalem who are rulers in um Judah and Jerusalem for the way that they're taking for the way that they're taking for the way that they're taking advantage and of their people. advantage and of their people. advantage and of their people. Um and then it pronounces a a judgment Um and then it pronounces a a judgment Um and then it pronounces a a judgment on them in verse four moves and talks on them in verse four moves and talks on them in verse four moves and talks again about the false prophets and goes again about the false prophets and goes again about the false prophets and goes through and talks about how they're through and talks about how they're through and talks about how they're misleading the people. And this is this misleading the people. And this is this misleading the people. And this is this is the thing because Jerusalem is the is the thing because Jerusalem is the is the thing because Jerusalem is the city where the name of God dwells and city where the name of God dwells and city where the name of God dwells and where the temple is located. The people where the temple is located. The people where the temple is located. The people were under the mistaken idea that um it were under the mistaken idea that um it were under the mistaken idea that um it was untouchable. was untouchable. was untouchable. >> So no matter how bad they behaved or um >> So no matter how bad they behaved or um >> So no matter how bad they behaved or um how much um how much they disobeyed how much um how much they disobeyed how much um how much they disobeyed God's laws, he was not going to allow God's laws, he was not going to allow God's laws, he was not going to allow anything bad to happen to Jerusalem. anything bad to happen to Jerusalem. anything bad to happen to Jerusalem. >> Yeah. And this was the prophecy that >> Yeah. And this was the prophecy that >> Yeah. And this was the prophecy that most that the false prophets were, you most that the false prophets were, you most that the false prophets were, you know, emphasizing or underscoring is, know, emphasizing or underscoring is, know, emphasizing or underscoring is, hey, don't worry about it because God hey, don't worry about it because God hey, don't worry about it because God isn't going to allow anything to happen isn't going to allow anything to happen isn't going to allow anything to happen to his own city where his temple is.

to his own city where his temple is. to his own city where his temple is. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Um, also, I guess the people have gotten >> Um, also, I guess the people have gotten >> Um, also, I guess the people have gotten to a point where they have been doing to a point where they have been doing to a point where they have been doing the wrong thing for so long that they no the wrong thing for so long that they no the wrong thing for so long that they no longer recognize the difference between longer recognize the difference between longer recognize the difference between right and wrong. So they don't even right and wrong. So they don't even right and wrong. So they don't even realize how badly um their moral and realize how badly um their moral and realize how badly um their moral and ethical um behavior has deteriorated. ethical um behavior has deteriorated. ethical um behavior has deteriorated. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> So then we've get to the in chapter 3 um >> So then we've get to the in chapter 3 um >> So then we've get to the in chapter 3 um after he talks he um derides the after he talks he um derides the after he talks he um derides the prophets and tells them they w aren't prophets and tells them they w aren't prophets and tells them they w aren't going to be able to um do their jobs going to be able to um do their jobs going to be able to um do their jobs anymore. They're not going to be able to anymore. They're not going to be able to anymore. They're not going to be able to see any any oracles or be able to um see see any any oracles or be able to um see see any any oracles or be able to um see any prophecies. Then uh he moves on to any prophecies. Then uh he moves on to any prophecies. Then uh he moves on to there's this little statement by uh there's this little statement by uh there's this little statement by uh Micah and he like interjects Micah and he like interjects Micah and he like interjects you know and and he essentially is you know and and he essentially is you know and and he essentially is talking about the fact that he has been talking about the fact that he has been talking about the fact that he has been filled with the spirit of the Lord to um filled with the spirit of the Lord to um filled with the spirit of the Lord to um make these pronouncements or make these pronouncements or make these pronouncements or declarations of judgment on Israel and declarations of judgment on Israel and declarations of judgment on Israel and Judah.

Judah. Judah. Um, Um, Um, so then we get to the end of chapter 2 so then we get to the end of chapter 2 so then we get to the end of chapter 2 and um, he announces that Zion's going and um, he announces that Zion's going and um, he announces that Zion's going to be destroyed. Zion being another word to be destroyed. Zion being another word to be destroyed. Zion being another word for Jerusalem. for Jerusalem. for Jerusalem. And that um, and that they're going to And that um, and that they're going to And that um, and that they're going to be devastated. It's all going to be be devastated. It's all going to be be devastated. It's all going to be destroyed. Keep in mind that um, destroyed. Keep in mind that um, destroyed. Keep in mind that um, Jeremiah Jeremiah Jeremiah um, when they were threatening to kill um, when they were threatening to kill um, when they were threatening to kill Jeremiah Jeremiah Jeremiah >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. um he um he said to them, "But don't you um he um he said to them, "But don't you um he um he said to them, "But don't you remember at the time of Hezekiah, the remember at the time of Hezekiah, the remember at the time of Hezekiah, the prophet Micah told you about these prophet Micah told you about these prophet Micah told you about these things and told you that these things things and told you that these things things and told you that these things were going to happen?" So the same were going to happen?" So the same were going to happen?" So the same things they were accusing Jeremiah of things they were accusing Jeremiah of things they were accusing Jeremiah of making false prophecies and making making false prophecies and making making false prophecies and making claims that were just trying to scare claims that were just trying to scare claims that were just trying to scare people for no reason. people for no reason. people for no reason. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And he said, "But back in the time of >> And he said, "But back in the time of >> And he said, "But back in the time of Hezekiah, Micah prophesied these same Hezekiah, Micah prophesied these same Hezekiah, Micah prophesied these same things." So it's not like this is things." So it's not like this is things." So it's not like this is something that I'm just coming up with something that I'm just coming up with something that I'm just coming up with out of the blue somewhere. out of the blue somewhere. out of the blue somewhere. >> Yeah. We have this section in chapter 4 >> Yeah. We have this section in chapter 4 >> Yeah. We have this section in chapter 4 um which is identical. Chapter 4:ES 1:5 um which is identical. Chapter 4:ES 1:5 um which is identical. Chapter 4:ES 1:5 are identical to chapter 2 1:4 in the are identical to chapter 2 1:4 in the are identical to chapter 2 1:4 in the book of Isaiah talks about a um an book of Isaiah talks about a um an book of Isaiah talks about a um an idealized time when a messianic ruler is idealized time when a messianic ruler is idealized time when a messianic ruler is going to come and there will be going to come and there will be going to come and there will be worldwide peace worldwide peace worldwide peace um in the world and that um people are um in the world and that um people are um in the world and that um people are going to come are going to travel to um going to come are going to travel to um going to come are going to travel to um see God and that he's in some way going see God and that he's in some way going see God and that he's in some way going to rule and reign over everything.

to rule and reign over everything. to rule and reign over everything. >> Yeah. Um, and it's kind of it's sort of >> Yeah. Um, and it's kind of it's sort of >> Yeah. Um, and it's kind of it's sort of um it's sort of uh uh an an interruption um it's sort of uh uh an an interruption um it's sort of uh uh an an interruption in what's going on in the book. in what's going on in the book. in what's going on in the book. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Um but um but essentially I think part >> Um but um but essentially I think part >> Um but um but essentially I think part of what's going on here is that um we're of what's going on here is that um we're of what's going on here is that um we're talking about military conflict. Mhm. talking about military conflict. Mhm. talking about military conflict. Mhm. >> And when we're when you look at the >> And when we're when you look at the >> And when we're when you look at the passage and um that's identical to passage and um that's identical to passage and um that's identical to Isaiah, it seems as if what we're Isaiah, it seems as if what we're Isaiah, it seems as if what we're talking here is about an end to the talking here is about an end to the talking here is about an end to the military conflicts and an estab military conflicts and an estab military conflicts and an estab establishment of a time of safety and establishment of a time of safety and establishment of a time of safety and peace where nobody has to feel like peace where nobody has to feel like peace where nobody has to feel like they're going to be threatened from they're going to be threatened from they're going to be threatened from outside forces. outside forces. outside forces. >> Then uh the book um moves again and >> Then uh the book um moves again and >> Then uh the book um moves again and talks about um talks about what uh talks about um talks about what uh talks about um talks about what uh Yahweh's going to or what the Lord's Yahweh's going to or what the Lord's Yahweh's going to or what the Lord's going to do. going to do. going to do. um how he's going to allow his people to um how he's going to allow his people to um how he's going to allow his people to go into captivity. So, he's going to use go into captivity. So, he's going to use go into captivity. So, he's going to use foreign oppressors and foreign nations foreign oppressors and foreign nations foreign oppressors and foreign nations to punish or judge his people, but then to punish or judge his people, but then to punish or judge his people, but then he's going to turn around and he's going he's going to turn around and he's going he's going to turn around and he's going to punish those nations to punish those nations to punish those nations for oppressing his own people.

for oppressing his own people. for oppressing his own people. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Um it moves on. Then we have in verse >> Um it moves on. Then we have in verse >> Um it moves on. Then we have in verse five um we have this this second um this five um we have this this second um this five um we have this this second um this second statement having to do with a second statement having to do with a second statement having to do with a shepherd or a messianic individual of shepherd or a messianic individual of shepherd or a messianic individual of some kind who is going to um who is some kind who is going to um who is some kind who is going to um who is going to sit on the throne and he is going to sit on the throne and he is going to sit on the throne and he is going to take care of everybody and going to take care of everybody and going to take care of everybody and establish peace and everything's going establish peace and everything's going establish peace and everything's going to be secure underneath of him. And that to be secure underneath of him. And that to be secure underneath of him. And that shepherd language is interesting because shepherd language is interesting because shepherd language is interesting because they he uses shepherd language in they he uses shepherd language in they he uses shepherd language in chapter 2:es 12-13 and then he goes back chapter 2:es 12-13 and then he goes back chapter 2:es 12-13 and then he goes back to the shepherd language again here to the shepherd language again here to the shepherd language again here >> and of course the importance of this um >> and of course the importance of this um >> and of course the importance of this um particular part of the chapter is verse particular part of the chapter is verse particular part of the chapter is verse two which is used again in Matthew 2 to two which is used again in Matthew 2 to two which is used again in Matthew 2 to um claim um that uh a deliverer is going um claim um that uh a deliverer is going um claim um that uh a deliverer is going to come from Bethlehem. to come from Bethlehem. to come from Bethlehem. >> Yeah. And so, uh, we have that promised >> Yeah. And so, uh, we have that promised >> Yeah. And so, uh, we have that promised of the Messiah coming from Bethlehem. of the Messiah coming from Bethlehem. of the Messiah coming from Bethlehem. And this passage being used to support And this passage being used to support And this passage being used to support Matthew's argument in chapter 2.

Matthew's argument in chapter 2. Matthew's argument in chapter 2. Um, the book goes on talks about um Um, the book goes on talks about um Um, the book goes on talks about um talks about destruction of Assyria again talks about destruction of Assyria again talks about destruction of Assyria again and victory over her. Then we move into and victory over her. Then we move into and victory over her. Then we move into six and seven. This is the third cycle. six and seven. This is the third cycle. six and seven. This is the third cycle. Um, essentially u it's an extended Um, essentially u it's an extended Um, essentially u it's an extended argument. Um the Lord says um come argument. Um the Lord says um come argument. Um the Lord says um come before me and explain yourselves. before me and explain yourselves. before me and explain yourselves. And he tells them, he essentially talks And he tells them, he essentially talks And he tells them, he essentially talks about how he's always been gracious to about how he's always been gracious to about how he's always been gracious to them and how no matter what they did them and how no matter what they did them and how no matter what they did wrong, he was always been faithful. wrong, he was always been faithful. wrong, he was always been faithful. [laughter] [laughter] [laughter] >> And um >> And um >> And um >> I love verse three. I just wanted to of >> I love verse three. I just wanted to of >> I love verse three. I just wanted to of chapter six. Oh my people, what have I chapter six. Oh my people, what have I chapter six. Oh my people, what have I done to you? What have I done to make done to you? What have I done to make done to you? What have I done to make you tired of me? [laughter] you tired of me? [laughter] you tired of me? [laughter] I just love how honest God is. I just love how honest God is. I just love how honest God is. >> Well, and then and then he goes on and >> Well, and then and then he goes on and >> Well, and then and then he goes on and and he says um um he essentially you've and he says um um he essentially you've and he says um um he essentially you've got the people responding with well I got the people responding with well I got the people responding with well I don't know what I need to do or what I don't know what I need to do or what I don't know what I need to do or what I can do. I'm already offering you know can do. I'm already offering you know can do. I'm already offering you know sacrifices that you know of the way that sacrifices that you know of the way that sacrifices that you know of the way that I know that they're supposed to be I know that they're supposed to be I know that they're supposed to be offered and I'm already doing the things offered and I'm already doing the things offered and I'm already doing the things that I'm supposed to be doing. So I that I'm supposed to be doing. So I that I'm supposed to be doing. So I can't imagine what it is you're accusing can't imagine what it is you're accusing can't imagine what it is you're accusing me of. M me of. M me of. M >> and that's where we get to this verse in >> and that's where we get to this verse in >> and that's where we get to this verse in um chapter 8 or verse 8 of chapter 6 um chapter 8 or verse 8 of chapter 6 um chapter 8 or verse 8 of chapter 6 where it says um he showed you he has where it says um he showed you he has where it says um he showed you he has showed you what is good and what the showed you what is good and what the showed you what is good and what the Lord requires of you to act justly and Lord requires of you to act justly and Lord requires of you to act justly and love mercy and to walk humbly before love mercy and to walk humbly before love mercy and to walk humbly before your God. So in other words that your God. So in other words that your God. So in other words that essentially encompasses

essentially encompasses essentially encompasses >> the um issues that are involved. The >> the um issues that are involved. The >> the um issues that are involved. The issues are two. The first is issues are two. The first is issues are two. The first is unfaithfulness to God. The unfaithfulness to God. The unfaithfulness to God. The unfaithfulness to God is manifested or unfaithfulness to God is manifested or unfaithfulness to God is manifested or demonstrated through their um worship of demonstrated through their um worship of demonstrated through their um worship of false idols or the the synretatistic false idols or the the synretatistic false idols or the the synretatistic worship, the worship of God plus other worship, the worship of God plus other worship, the worship of God plus other idols. idols. idols. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And by placing their needs and >> And by placing their needs and >> And by placing their needs and themselves above um God. All right? So themselves above um God. All right? So themselves above um God. All right? So you can think of idolatry in that you can think of idolatry in that you can think of idolatry in that perspective also. This idea of perspective also. This idea of perspective also. This idea of self-interest and greediness. self-interest and greediness. self-interest and greediness. The other part or the other accusation The other part or the other accusation The other part or the other accusation is a typical one in the prophets and is a typical one in the prophets and is a typical one in the prophets and that is social injustice or taking that is social injustice or taking that is social injustice or taking advantage of the poor, needy and advantage of the poor, needy and advantage of the poor, needy and vulnerable. So these are the two things vulnerable. So these are the two things vulnerable. So these are the two things or the two major sins or um or the two major sins or um or the two major sins or um incriminations that are being brought by incriminations that are being brought by incriminations that are being brought by God. God. God. >> And he summarizes this in this verse >> And he summarizes this in this verse >> And he summarizes this in this verse which comes from um Deuteronomy chapter which comes from um Deuteronomy chapter which comes from um Deuteronomy chapter 10. And um what is interesting about 10. And um what is interesting about 10. And um what is interesting about this is this summarizes the ten this is this summarizes the ten this is this summarizes the ten commandments because we have the first commandments because we have the first commandments because we have the first tablet of commandments have to do with tablet of commandments have to do with tablet of commandments have to do with your relationship with God. The second your relationship with God. The second your relationship with God. The second tablet of the commandments have to do tablet of the commandments have to do tablet of the commandments have to do with your relationship to other people.

with your relationship to other people. with your relationship to other people. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> And if you violate the first tablet of >> And if you violate the first tablet of >> And if you violate the first tablet of the commandments, the second tablet of the commandments, the second tablet of the commandments, the second tablet of the commandments is going to be the is the commandments is going to be the is the commandments is going to be the is is going to be violated as well. In is going to be violated as well. In is going to be violated as well. In other words, you can't observe one or other words, you can't observe one or other words, you can't observe one or you can't follow one. And um you can't you can't follow one. And um you can't you can't follow one. And um you can't follow one and not follow the other. follow one and not follow the other. follow one and not follow the other. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> So how you treat other people rep >> So how you treat other people rep >> So how you treat other people rep represents or reflects what your represents or reflects what your represents or reflects what your relationship with God is. And your relationship with God is. And your relationship with God is. And your relationship with God is going to relationship with God is going to relationship with God is going to reflect on how you treat other people. reflect on how you treat other people. reflect on how you treat other people. >> And so there so it's a violation of >> And so there so it's a violation of >> And so there so it's a violation of those two commandments those two commandments those two commandments >> which ultimately goes then into the >> which ultimately goes then into the >> which ultimately goes then into the golden rule golden rule golden rule >> and um which is a summary of the same >> and um which is a summary of the same >> and um which is a summary of the same thing. thing. thing. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. Anyway, um he makes some more Anyway, um he makes some more Anyway, um he makes some more accusations against them about how accusations against them about how accusations against them about how deceitful they are. They're trying to deceitful they are. They're trying to deceitful they are. They're trying to cheat one another and trying to take cheat one another and trying to take cheat one another and trying to take advantage of one another. And as a advantage of one another. And as a advantage of one another. And as a result, all this that they've stored up result, all this that they've stored up result, all this that they've stored up or they've gained by being deceitful is or they've gained by being deceitful is or they've gained by being deceitful is all going to be taken away from them and all going to be taken away from them and all going to be taken away from them and given over to somebody else. given over to somebody else. given over to somebody else. >> Same thing happens in verse 7. What is >> Same thing happens in verse 7. What is >> Same thing happens in verse 7. What is interesting is that then interesting is that then interesting is that then >> [clears throat] >> [clears throat] >> [clears throat] >> um we have these this last part of the >> um we have these this last part of the >> um we have these this last part of the book and the last part of the book is book and the last part of the book is book and the last part of the book is this um this oracle of hope.

this um this oracle of hope. this um this oracle of hope. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Um and so it talks about Israel um will >> Um and so it talks about Israel um will >> Um and so it talks about Israel um will be punished but um God is going to free be punished but um God is going to free be punished but um God is going to free her. And then what's going to happen is her. And then what's going to happen is her. And then what's going to happen is the enemy who has been mocking her and the enemy who has been mocking her and the enemy who has been mocking her and saying, "Oh, well, this people of God, saying, "Oh, well, this people of God, saying, "Oh, well, this people of God, you know, they're allowed, he's allowing you know, they're allowed, he's allowing you know, they're allowed, he's allowing them to go into captivity and he's them to go into captivity and he's them to go into captivity and he's allowing all these bad things to happen allowing all these bad things to happen allowing all these bad things to happen to them. They're harassing Israel. Well, to them. They're harassing Israel. Well, to them. They're harassing Israel. Well, God's going to turn around and make them God's going to turn around and make them God's going to turn around and make them humiliate them and um cause them to kind humiliate them and um cause them to kind humiliate them and um cause them to kind of eat their words, so to speak." Mhm. of eat their words, so to speak." Mhm. of eat their words, so to speak." Mhm. >> Um and um talks about the promises of >> Um and um talks about the promises of >> Um and um talks about the promises of the people being able to rebuild their the people being able to rebuild their the people being able to rebuild their city once again and live in the land. Um city once again and live in the land. Um city once again and live in the land. Um we have another shepherd passage that we have another shepherd passage that we have another shepherd passage that comes up. So third shepherd passage. So comes up. So third shepherd passage. So comes up. So third shepherd passage. So there's three of them in the three there's three of them in the three there's three of them in the three different cycles different cycles different cycles >> um where it talks about um talks about >> um where it talks about um talks about >> um where it talks about um talks about leading the people in a place where leading the people in a place where leading the people in a place where there's plenty and where they're there's plenty and where they're there's plenty and where they're provided for and um that there will be provided for and um that there will be provided for and um that there will be all these wonderful things that happen all these wonderful things that happen all these wonderful things that happen when God delivers his people. Um the when God delivers his people. Um the when God delivers his people. Um the nations are going to be punished and nations are going to be punished and nations are going to be punished and they're going to be um embarrassed and they're going to be um embarrassed and they're going to be um embarrassed and they're going to be afraid of God and they're going to be afraid of God and they're going to be afraid of God and afraid of of his wrath.

afraid of of his wrath. afraid of of his wrath. >> And then we have this final part that >> And then we have this final part that >> And then we have this final part that that closes out the book. It's this hymn that closes out the book. It's this hymn that closes out the book. It's this hymn and what it is is it's a summary of the and what it is is it's a summary of the and what it is is it's a summary of the divine attribut formula that's in Exodus divine attribut formula that's in Exodus divine attribut formula that's in Exodus 34 um 6-7 and it talks about the 34 um 6-7 and it talks about the 34 um 6-7 and it talks about the character of God character of God character of God and the character of God it it um quotes and the character of God it it um quotes and the character of God it it um quotes that that passage and it talks about God that that passage and it talks about God that that passage and it talks about God as being one that is pardons and as being one that is pardons and as being one that is pardons and forgives sin forgives sin forgives sin >> um and um and towards his inheritance >> um and um and towards his inheritance >> um and um and towards his inheritance and that he will not stay angry forever. and that he will not stay angry forever. and that he will not stay angry forever. In other words, God is mad at you and In other words, God is mad at you and In other words, God is mad at you and you're going through a bad time because you're going through a bad time because you're going through a bad time because of it or you're going to go through a of it or you're going to go through a of it or you're going to go through a bad time because of it, but his anger is bad time because of it, but his anger is bad time because of it, but his anger is not going to last forever because he is not going to last forever because he is not going to last forever because he is faithful to you because of his covenant faithful to you because of his covenant faithful to you because of his covenant love or his covenant loyalty. love or his covenant loyalty. love or his covenant loyalty. >> Um he will um he will show mercy. He'll >> Um he will um he will show mercy. He'll >> Um he will um he will show mercy. He'll have compassion on you and he will turn have compassion on you and he will turn have compassion on you and he will turn things around for you and um you'll be things around for you and um you'll be things around for you and um you'll be restored back into relationship with restored back into relationship with restored back into relationship with him. him. him. >> Yeah. So >> Yeah. So >> Yeah. So >> yeah, and that tends to be what we see >> yeah, and that tends to be what we see >> yeah, and that tends to be what we see from anytime that God is making these from anytime that God is making these from anytime that God is making these accusations, these claims of judgment accusations, these claims of judgment accusations, these claims of judgment against Israel. It's always with this against Israel. It's always with this against Israel. It's always with this future hope. It's always with but I'm future hope. It's always with but I'm future hope. It's always with but I'm I'm still faithful. Like there are I'm still faithful. Like there are I'm still faithful. Like there are consequences for your actions, but I consequences for your actions, but I consequences for your actions, but I still love you. I will continue to be still love you. I will continue to be still love you. I will continue to be faithful to you. There is still hope.

faithful to you. There is still hope. faithful to you. There is still hope. I'm on a longer timeline than you might I'm on a longer timeline than you might I'm on a longer timeline than you might think, you know, are. And so um so I can think, you know, are. And so um so I can think, you know, are. And so um so I can see the future like I can see how our see the future like I can see how our see the future like I can see how our relationship will be restored but right relationship will be restored but right relationship will be restored but right now it's broken and there's going to be now it's broken and there's going to be now it's broken and there's going to be judgment because of all these dishonest judgment because of all these dishonest judgment because of all these dishonest things cuz you because your lack of things cuz you because your lack of things cuz you because your lack of faithfulness because you know all those faithfulness because you know all those faithfulness because you know all those things that we have talked about earlier things that we have talked about earlier things that we have talked about earlier from all these accusation points that from all these accusation points that from all these accusation points that God lays out the case against God lays out the case against God lays out the case against >> the pro the problem is is that the the >> the pro the problem is is that the the >> the pro the problem is is that the the leaders and what they're doing the leaders and what they're doing the leaders and what they're doing the leaders the wealthy land owners the leaders the wealthy land owners the leaders the wealthy land owners the judges who are being bribed the prophets judges who are being bribed the prophets judges who are being bribed the prophets the priests who are not doing what the priests who are not doing what the priests who are not doing what they're supposed to be doing. Nobody is they're supposed to be doing. Nobody is they're supposed to be doing. Nobody is doing what they're supposed to be doing. doing what they're supposed to be doing. doing what they're supposed to be doing. And so um and so if the leadership And so um and so if the leadership And so um and so if the leadership doesn't do what it's supposed to do, doesn't do what it's supposed to do, doesn't do what it's supposed to do, then the people are going to follow them then the people are going to follow them then the people are going to follow them are going to do what they're doing are going to do what they're doing are going to do what they're doing >> for sure. >> for sure. >> for sure. >> And so it trickles down and until until >> And so it trickles down and until until >> And so it trickles down and until until they get to the point where they can no they get to the point where they can no they get to the point where they can no longer see what's right and wrong longer see what's right and wrong longer see what's right and wrong anymore. anymore. anymore. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And so they're going to have there's no >> And so they're going to have there's no >> And so they're going to have there's no time for repentance. It's not like Jonah time for repentance. It's not like Jonah time for repentance. It's not like Jonah where, hey, Nineveh repents and God where, hey, Nineveh repents and God where, hey, Nineveh repents and God relents for a while, but then of course relents for a while, but then of course relents for a while, but then of course they're going to go back to the way that they're going to go back to the way that they're going to go back to the way that they were and they were and they were and >> and so on.

>> and so on. >> and so on. >> Yep. And that's where these prophets >> Yep. And that's where these prophets >> Yep. And that's where these prophets come in and say, "Guys, you're not doing come in and say, "Guys, you're not doing come in and say, "Guys, you're not doing the things and God sees and bad things the things and God sees and bad things the things and God sees and bad things are going to happen." Um, so let's talk are going to happen." Um, so let's talk are going to happen." Um, so let's talk about then the major theme of this book. about then the major theme of this book. about then the major theme of this book. What would you say is the major theme of What would you say is the major theme of What would you say is the major theme of the book of Micah? the book of Micah? the book of Micah? Um I think it's it the major theme of Um I think it's it the major theme of Um I think it's it the major theme of the book of Micah has to do with what a the book of Micah has to do with what a the book of Micah has to do with what a holy God requires and um the privileges holy God requires and um the privileges holy God requires and um the privileges of his people. So in other words, God's of his people. So in other words, God's of his people. So in other words, God's holiness demands punishment for sin. holiness demands punishment for sin. holiness demands punishment for sin. >> So that he can't just let his people >> So that he can't just let his people >> So that he can't just let his people keep rebelling, keep sinning, keep um keep rebelling, keep sinning, keep um keep rebelling, keep sinning, keep um taking advantage of one another and um taking advantage of one another and um taking advantage of one another and um so on. He can't just let that go on so on. He can't just let that go on so on. He can't just let that go on forever because I mean essentially that forever because I mean essentially that forever because I mean essentially that sullies his reputation. sullies his reputation. sullies his reputation. um he can't let that go on. But his um he can't let that go on. But his um he can't let that go on. But his covenant love guarantees that once that covenant love guarantees that once that covenant love guarantees that once that time of chastisement or discipline is time of chastisement or discipline is time of chastisement or discipline is over that he will restore him back to over that he will restore him back to over that he will restore him back to him they he will restore them back to him they he will restore them back to him they he will restore them back to himself. himself. himself. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. That's the major theme.

>> Yeah. That's the major theme. >> Yeah. That's the major theme. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And all of this is the part of the >> And all of this is the part of the >> And all of this is the part of the larger purposes and plans of God. larger purposes and plans of God. larger purposes and plans of God. >> Yeah. And that's part of that beauty >> Yeah. And that's part of that beauty >> Yeah. And that's part of that beauty that we see from Micah 68, which is such that we see from Micah 68, which is such that we see from Micah 68, which is such a famous passage, a famous verse. But it a famous passage, a famous verse. But it a famous passage, a famous verse. But it is it is it's it's ironic timing. I was is it is it's it's ironic timing. I was is it is it's it's ironic timing. I was watching this thing on Instagram watching this thing on Instagram watching this thing on Instagram yesterday and it was talking about that yesterday and it was talking about that yesterday and it was talking about that verse. It was talking about Micah 68 and verse. It was talking about Micah 68 and verse. It was talking about Micah 68 and it was talking about how so many times it was talking about how so many times it was talking about how so many times when we read it, we read it for, you when we read it, we read it for, you when we read it, we read it for, you know, the first part which is, you know, know, the first part which is, you know, know, the first part which is, you know, to do what is right, to love mercy, to to do what is right, to love mercy, to to do what is right, to love mercy, to walk humbly. And a lot of people when walk humbly. And a lot of people when walk humbly. And a lot of people when they quote the verse, they leave out the they quote the verse, they leave out the they quote the verse, they leave out the with your God part of that verse. And with your God part of that verse. And with your God part of that verse. And that's really the most important part of that's really the most important part of that's really the most important part of the verse is doing it with or before the verse is doing it with or before the verse is doing it with or before God. God, it's about that relationship. God. God, it's about that relationship. God. God, it's about that relationship. And what overflow is what that the And what overflow is what that the And what overflow is what that the outpour of your relationship with God outpour of your relationship with God outpour of your relationship with God will result in doing what is right to will result in doing what is right to will result in doing what is right to love mercy to walk on. love mercy to walk on. love mercy to walk on. >> Well, that's just it. You cannot do you >> Well, that's just it. You cannot do you >> Well, that's just it. You cannot do you cannot do part of it without doing all cannot do part of it without doing all cannot do part of it without doing all of it. of it. of it. >> Like what we were talking about earlier. >> Like what we were talking about earlier. >> Like what we were talking about earlier. Exactly. Right. Um, so anyway, just a Exactly. Right. Um, so anyway, just a Exactly. Right. Um, so anyway, just a little a little side note on that verse little a little side note on that verse little a little side note on that verse because that it does really capture that because that it does really capture that because that it does really capture that theme of God saying, "Do we of of this theme of God saying, "Do we of of this theme of God saying, "Do we of of this is what I'm I want you to do." And it's is what I'm I want you to do." And it's is what I'm I want you to do." And it's it's it's it's pretty simple. And yet we it's it's it's pretty simple. And yet we it's it's it's pretty simple. And yet we go awayward and we and we forget to walk go awayward and we and we forget to walk go awayward and we and we forget to walk with God. And when that happens, it with God. And when that happens, it with God. And when that happens, it affects all these other areas. You start affects all these other areas. You start affects all these other areas. You start to cheat. You start to, you know, all of to cheat. You start to, you know, all of to cheat. You start to, you know, all of what he says in the rest of chapter 6.

what he says in the rest of chapter 6. what he says in the rest of chapter 6. What about the disgusting practice of What about the disgusting practice of What about the disgusting practice of measuring out grain with dishonest measuring out grain with dishonest measuring out grain with dishonest measures? Again, I love how to the point measures? Again, I love how to the point measures? Again, I love how to the point he is. Um, okay. So, what does the book he is. Um, okay. So, what does the book he is. Um, okay. So, what does the book of Micah teach us about God? I think it of Micah teach us about God? I think it of Micah teach us about God? I think it it teaches us quite a bit and we've it teaches us quite a bit and we've it teaches us quite a bit and we've covered some of it, but let's make a a covered some of it, but let's make a a covered some of it, but let's make a a clear little box here about what does clear little box here about what does clear little box here about what does the book of Micah teach us about God. the book of Micah teach us about God. the book of Micah teach us about God. >> Okay. Um, first that God will God is is >> Okay. Um, first that God will God is is >> Okay. Um, first that God will God is is long-suffering, but he'll only put up long-suffering, but he'll only put up long-suffering, but he'll only put up with evil for so long. with evil for so long. with evil for so long. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. God is going to God often times God is going to God often times God is going to God often times chastises, punishes, or um uh causes um chastises, punishes, or um uh causes um chastises, punishes, or um uh causes um some kind of consequences for his people some kind of consequences for his people some kind of consequences for his people in order to restore them back to a in order to restore them back to a in order to restore them back to a relationship with him. So, it's not just relationship with him. So, it's not just relationship with him. So, it's not just superolous. It's not just something that superolous. It's not just something that superolous. It's not just something that he's just doing on a whim for no no he's just doing on a whim for no no he's just doing on a whim for no no reason. But when he does that, the goal reason. But when he does that, the goal reason. But when he does that, the goal or the purpose is to restore those or the purpose is to restore those or the purpose is to restore those people to to a right relationship with people to to a right relationship with people to to a right relationship with him. him. him. um he can't let his people destroy um he can't let his people destroy um he can't let his people destroy themselves um by virtue of their moral themselves um by virtue of their moral themselves um by virtue of their moral and ethical degeneration.

and ethical degeneration. and ethical degeneration. He has to act. He has to chastise them. He has to act. He has to chastise them. He has to act. He has to chastise them. Um however, he also loves them very much Um however, he also loves them very much Um however, he also loves them very much >> and just like a parent loves children. >> and just like a parent loves children. >> and just like a parent loves children. Um there are many times when parents Um there are many times when parents Um there are many times when parents have to discipline their children and have to discipline their children and have to discipline their children and they're not doing it because they want they're not doing it because they want they're not doing it because they want to be mean and they're not doing it just to be mean and they're not doing it just to be mean and they're not doing it just because just for no reason, because just for no reason, because just for no reason, >> but they're doing it because they want >> but they're doing it because they want >> but they're doing it because they want to um raise their children, right? Yeah. to um raise their children, right? Yeah. to um raise their children, right? Yeah. >> And similarly, as God the father is a >> And similarly, as God the father is a >> And similarly, as God the father is a father of his children, so also he um father of his children, so also he um father of his children, so also he um has to discipline them, but he also has to discipline them, but he also has to discipline them, but he also loves them and cares deeply for them. loves them and cares deeply for them. loves them and cares deeply for them. and his goal is to restore them in a and his goal is to restore them in a and his goal is to restore them in a right relationship with him. right relationship with him. right relationship with him. >> Yeah, >> Yeah, >> Yeah, >> God is merciful. He's compassionate. Um >> God is merciful. He's compassionate. Um >> God is merciful. He's compassionate. Um and he is faithful. And I think that and he is faithful. And I think that and he is faithful. And I think that that's what the that's the most that's what the that's the most that's what the that's the most important thing. Um is that he's important thing. Um is that he's important thing. Um is that he's faithful and he's in control of all the faithful and he's in control of all the faithful and he's in control of all the events of history. The trajectory of events of history. The trajectory of events of history. The trajectory of history and all that is going on is history and all that is going on is history and all that is going on is under his control and fits into his under his control and fits into his under his control and fits into his purposes and plans.

purposes and plans. purposes and plans. >> Yeah. in this book is as we've said or >> Yeah. in this book is as we've said or >> Yeah. in this book is as we've said or as you had mentioned it has these three as you had mentioned it has these three as you had mentioned it has these three cycles that are to it and each cycle cycles that are to it and each cycle cycles that are to it and each cycle does seem to end with that message of of does seem to end with that message of of does seem to end with that message of of hope and and that's where we and we've hope and and that's where we and we've hope and and that's where we and we've seen that throughout our conversations seen that throughout our conversations seen that throughout our conversations on the prophets most of the time we have on the prophets most of the time we have on the prophets most of the time we have a lot of judgment a lot of hard things a lot of judgment a lot of hard things a lot of judgment a lot of hard things and then the book ends with this message and then the book ends with this message and then the book ends with this message of hope here because of the way that the of hope here because of the way that the of hope here because of the way that the cycles are put together through this cycles are put together through this cycles are put together through this book we get that three times so it's book we get that three times so it's book we get that three times so it's kind of nice having these little kind of nice having these little kind of nice having these little interludes, right? You could we have the interludes, right? You could we have the interludes, right? You could we have the end of chapter 2, we have uh the Lord's end of chapter 2, we have uh the Lord's end of chapter 2, we have uh the Lord's future reign part, chapter 4, and then future reign part, chapter 4, and then future reign part, chapter 4, and then talking about a ruler from Bethlehem, talking about a ruler from Bethlehem, talking about a ruler from Bethlehem, chapter 5, and then we got most of chapter 5, and then we got most of chapter 5, and then we got most of chapter 7 about hope. So, so it's it's chapter 7 about hope. So, so it's it's chapter 7 about hope. So, so it's it's nice to it's nice to have a bit more of nice to it's nice to have a bit more of nice to it's nice to have a bit more of the restoration hope in this book. the restoration hope in this book. the restoration hope in this book. >> Well, and and you know, don't give up >> Well, and and you know, don't give up >> Well, and and you know, don't give up hope. Exactly. you know, is essentially hope. Exactly. you know, is essentially hope. Exactly. you know, is essentially but don't give up hope, you know, don't but don't give up hope, you know, don't but don't give up hope, you know, don't be don't get to the point of despair be don't get to the point of despair be don't get to the point of despair where you think that it's all lost where you think that it's all lost where you think that it's all lost because I mean, how many people have because I mean, how many people have because I mean, how many people have turned away from God thinking that all turned away from God thinking that all turned away from God thinking that all is lost and there's no point anymore?

is lost and there's no point anymore? is lost and there's no point anymore? >> Yeah. This is not a message of God >> Yeah. This is not a message of God >> Yeah. This is not a message of God abandoning his kids. It's it's abandoning his kids. It's it's abandoning his kids. It's it's >> No. And I like that he does this. He >> No. And I like that he does this. He >> No. And I like that he does this. He that Micah repeats this kind of message that Micah repeats this kind of message that Micah repeats this kind of message several times over, you know, at the end several times over, you know, at the end several times over, you know, at the end of each cycle. of each cycle. of each cycle. >> Yes. because it's that reminder of like >> Yes. because it's that reminder of like >> Yes. because it's that reminder of like hey like yes there are consequences for hey like yes there are consequences for hey like yes there are consequences for your actions so bad things will happen your actions so bad things will happen your actions so bad things will happen you know people will be in exile people you know people will be in exile people you know people will be in exile people will be taken over like and that's just will be taken over like and that's just will be taken over like and that's just the way that consequence happened that the way that consequence happened that the way that consequence happened that that's that's the way God used those that's that's the way God used those that's that's the way God used those consequences at that time but always consequences at that time but always consequences at that time but always looking at the longer term picture looking at the longer term picture looking at the longer term picture always looking at ahead being like but always looking at ahead being like but always looking at ahead being like but there's hope a ruler is going to come there's hope a ruler is going to come there's hope a ruler is going to come from Bethlehem there's hope Israel will from Bethlehem there's hope Israel will from Bethlehem there's hope Israel will be restored to me there's hope like I am be restored to me there's hope like I am be restored to me there's hope like I am still here I still love you. My hand is still here I still love you. My hand is still here I still love you. My hand is still on you. Yes, I'm allowing things still on you. Yes, I'm allowing things still on you. Yes, I'm allowing things to happen because of to happen because of to happen because of the results of your unfaithfulness the results of your unfaithfulness the results of your unfaithfulness towards me, but I'm still here. And and towards me, but I'm still here. And and towards me, but I'm still here. And and that's I think that rings even clearer that's I think that rings even clearer that's I think that rings even clearer in Micah than in some of the other in Micah than in some of the other in Micah than in some of the other prophet books that we've talked about. I prophet books that we've talked about. I prophet books that we've talked about. I just love how it's he just he continues just love how it's he just he continues just love how it's he just he continues to go back to that and make it so clear.

to go back to that and make it so clear. to go back to that and make it so clear. Um what does the book of Micah teach us Um what does the book of Micah teach us Um what does the book of Micah teach us about us, about people? Okay. First of about us, about people? Okay. First of about us, about people? Okay. First of all, one of the [laughter] big one of all, one of the [laughter] big one of all, one of the [laughter] big one of the one of the big things it teaches us the one of the big things it teaches us the one of the big things it teaches us is that as leaders, is that as leaders, is that as leaders, we are more accountable. we are more accountable. we are more accountable. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And that we have to lead by example. >> And that we have to lead by example. >> And that we have to lead by example. >> Not by what we say, but by example. And >> Not by what we say, but by example. And >> Not by what we say, but by example. And the fact that um the leadership and all the fact that um the leadership and all the fact that um the leadership and all of those people who were um in positions of those people who were um in positions of those people who were um in positions of power, in positions of visibility, of power, in positions of visibility, of power, in positions of visibility, uh were um were rebelling and uh were um were rebelling and uh were um were rebelling and misbehaving and sinning and um doing all misbehaving and sinning and um doing all misbehaving and sinning and um doing all these things um that had a way of these things um that had a way of these things um that had a way of trickling down into the people. Yeah. trickling down into the people. Yeah. trickling down into the people. Yeah. >> So if they can act that way, that's how >> So if they can act that way, that's how >> So if they can act that way, that's how we can act, you know. So this this we can act, you know. So this this we can act, you know. So this this accountability or higher degree of accountability or higher degree of accountability or higher degree of accountability for those people that are accountability for those people that are accountability for those people that are supposed to be leaders. supposed to be leaders. supposed to be leaders. Um Um Um we've talked about um Israel's um we've talked about um Israel's um we've talked about um Israel's um violation of the two commandments and violation of the two commandments and violation of the two commandments and the idea that one cannot one cannot um the idea that one cannot one cannot um the idea that one cannot one cannot um love God and treat people badly and one love God and treat people badly and one love God and treat people badly and one cannot treat people badly but love God.

cannot treat people badly but love God. cannot treat people badly but love God. So the two are not exclusive. They're So the two are not exclusive. They're So the two are not exclusive. They're both tied together. both tied together. both tied together. Um and um sometimes we can be really Um and um sometimes we can be really Um and um sometimes we can be really complacent. We start out by sinning just complacent. We start out by sinning just complacent. We start out by sinning just a little or doing just a wrong thing a little or doing just a wrong thing a little or doing just a wrong thing here or there and we become complacent. here or there and we become complacent. here or there and we become complacent. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Um we no longer we get to a point where >> Um we no longer we get to a point where >> Um we no longer we get to a point where we're used to sinning all the time or we're used to sinning all the time or we're used to sinning all the time or committing that particular sin all the committing that particular sin all the committing that particular sin all the time until it just becomes part of our time until it just becomes part of our time until it just becomes part of our normal daily behavior. And at that point normal daily behavior. And at that point normal daily behavior. And at that point then we no longer recognize a difference then we no longer recognize a difference then we no longer recognize a difference between what's right and what's wrong. between what's right and what's wrong. between what's right and what's wrong. Mhm. Mhm. Mhm. >> We try and justify some of our actions >> We try and justify some of our actions >> We try and justify some of our actions by trying to find some and deceive by trying to find some and deceive by trying to find some and deceive ourselves into thinking that we might ourselves into thinking that we might ourselves into thinking that we might have good reasons for doing the wrong have good reasons for doing the wrong have good reasons for doing the wrong action until we lose sight of God. And action until we lose sight of God. And action until we lose sight of God. And even though we might not outwardly even though we might not outwardly even though we might not outwardly worship idols and statues and you know worship idols and statues and you know worship idols and statues and you know other gods, other gods, other gods, um misplaced priorities, um misplaced priorities, um misplaced priorities, um selfishness, um selfishness, um selfishness, uh you know, um greed, these things can uh you know, um greed, these things can uh you know, um greed, these things can be considered other gods when they be considered other gods when they be considered other gods when they govern our behavior and serve as our govern our behavior and serve as our govern our behavior and serve as our motivations.

motivations. motivations. >> Um we're all prone to sin. And I guess >> Um we're all prone to sin. And I guess >> Um we're all prone to sin. And I guess this is important too when we think this is important too when we think this is important too when we think about Micah and what he's talking about about Micah and what he's talking about about Micah and what he's talking about because um certainly the people in Judah because um certainly the people in Judah because um certainly the people in Judah and Jerusalem were pointing fingers at and Jerusalem were pointing fingers at and Jerusalem were pointing fingers at the northern kingdom and saying, "Haha, the northern kingdom and saying, "Haha, the northern kingdom and saying, "Haha, see what happened to you because of the see what happened to you because of the see what happened to you because of the way that you way that you way that you >> um were unfaithful." >> um were unfaithful." >> um were unfaithful." >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Um and um so they pro and they probably >> Um and um so they pro and they probably >> Um and um so they pro and they probably also had this idea that because they also had this idea that because they also had this idea that because they were people of God, they were in some were people of God, they were in some were people of God, they were in some way isolated from punishment or isolated way isolated from punishment or isolated way isolated from punishment or isolated from God's judgment. from God's judgment. from God's judgment. Um, and because they lived in Judah, you Um, and because they lived in Judah, you Um, and because they lived in Judah, you know, they're, well, we're, you know, know, they're, well, we're, you know, know, they're, well, we're, you know, this is God's, the place of the temple this is God's, the place of the temple this is God's, the place of the temple and all that, he's not going to allow and all that, he's not going to allow and all that, he's not going to allow anything bad to happen to us. Um, so anything bad to happen to us. Um, so anything bad to happen to us. Um, so they may have had a little bit of they may have had a little bit of they may have had a little bit of self-righteousness there in Judah and self-righteousness there in Judah and self-righteousness there in Judah and Jerusalem. Um, but the same sins that Jerusalem. Um, but the same sins that Jerusalem. Um, but the same sins that Israel committed were those same ones Israel committed were those same ones Israel committed were those same ones that they also committed. So, nobody is that they also committed. So, nobody is that they also committed. So, nobody is above sin. above sin. above sin. Um Um Um so uh we as believers um we can't just so uh we as believers um we can't just so uh we as believers um we can't just keep rebelling against God and expect keep rebelling against God and expect keep rebelling against God and expect not to suffer the consequences of that not to suffer the consequences of that not to suffer the consequences of that rebellion.

rebellion. rebellion. >> Although we have to be really careful as >> Although we have to be really careful as >> Although we have to be really careful as well to acknowledge that just because well to acknowledge that just because well to acknowledge that just because things are not going well for us that things are not going well for us that things are not going well for us that does not necessarily mean that we're does not necessarily mean that we're does not necessarily mean that we're sinning sinning against God and we have sinning sinning against God and we have sinning sinning against God and we have some kind of sin problem that needs to some kind of sin problem that needs to some kind of sin problem that needs to be resolved first. Yeah. I had a friend be resolved first. Yeah. I had a friend be resolved first. Yeah. I had a friend once who saw a direct relationship once who saw a direct relationship once who saw a direct relationship between blessing and sinning. between blessing and sinning. between blessing and sinning. >> And so she she made the statement to me >> And so she she made the statement to me >> And so she she made the statement to me that her family was blessed and you know that her family was blessed and you know that her family was blessed and you know materially and financially and so on materially and financially and so on materially and financially and so on because they did so much in service for because they did so much in service for because they did so much in service for the church and because they were such a the church and because they were such a the church and because they were such a played such an important role in the played such an important role in the played such an important role in the church and because they were always church and because they were always church and because they were always doing the right things. So God was doing the right things. So God was doing the right things. So God was constantly blessing them. constantly blessing them. constantly blessing them. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Mhm. >> And we on the other hand at that point >> And we on the other hand at that point >> And we on the other hand at that point were experiencing some very severe were experiencing some very severe were experiencing some very severe economic and financial hardships. And economic and financial hardships. And economic and financial hardships. And she suggested to me that maybe the she suggested to me that maybe the she suggested to me that maybe the reason that we're suffering those reason that we're suffering those reason that we're suffering those hardships is because we're not in the hardships is because we're not in the hardships is because we're not in the right place with God and that somehow right place with God and that somehow right place with God and that somehow maybe there's a sin problem in the camp maybe there's a sin problem in the camp maybe there's a sin problem in the camp needs to be resolved. So, we have to be needs to be resolved. So, we have to be needs to be resolved. So, we have to be really careful not to have this idea really careful not to have this idea really careful not to have this idea that just because you're obedient, God that just because you're obedient, God that just because you're obedient, God has to bless you. And just because has to bless you. And just because has to bless you. And just because you're disobedient, God has to punish you're disobedient, God has to punish you're disobedient, God has to punish you.

you. you. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Um and so, and that's part of not really >> Um and so, and that's part of not really >> Um and so, and that's part of not really being able to totally comprehend God and being able to totally comprehend God and being able to totally comprehend God and his ways. his ways. his ways. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. That's, you know, you can read the book That's, you know, you can read the book That's, you know, you can read the book of Job and get a nice picture, of Job and get a nice picture, of Job and get a nice picture, [laughter] [laughter] [laughter] but I I think what's what's so true but I I think what's what's so true but I I think what's what's so true about this book is it calls out all of about this book is it calls out all of about this book is it calls out all of these different practices. Like there these different practices. Like there these different practices. Like there are a lot of evil practices that God are a lot of evil practices that God are a lot of evil practices that God calls out in this book. And then you calls out in this book. And then you calls out in this book. And then you also see the second part or I should say also see the second part or I should say also see the second part or I should say uh chapter 7 vers 7 and on a bit right? uh chapter 7 vers 7 and on a bit right? uh chapter 7 vers 7 and on a bit right? >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Where then he turns and he says as for >> Where then he turns and he says as for >> Where then he turns and he says as for me I look to the Lord for help. So you me I look to the Lord for help. So you me I look to the Lord for help. So you can read this stuff all these do not do can read this stuff all these do not do can read this stuff all these do not do all of theseam all these warning signs all of theseam all these warning signs all of theseam all these warning signs of of of >> see they cover the whole gamut. We can >> see they cover the whole gamut. We can >> see they cover the whole gamut. We can you and I can both find things in there you and I can both find things in there you and I can both find things in there that in some way could apply to us. that in some way could apply to us. that in some way could apply to us. >> Exactly. They cover the gamut. But I >> Exactly. They cover the gamut. But I >> Exactly. They cover the gamut. But I love this. I I I love how Micah then love this. I I I love how Micah then love this. I I I love how Micah then turns, "As for me, I look to the Lord turns, "As for me, I look to the Lord turns, "As for me, I look to the Lord for help. I wait confidently for God to for help. I wait confidently for God to for help. I wait confidently for God to save me, and my God will certainly hear save me, and my God will certainly hear save me, and my God will certainly hear me." And then he goes in, "Though I sit me." And then he goes in, "Though I sit me." And then he goes in, "Though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light.

in darkness, the Lord will be my light. in darkness, the Lord will be my light. I will be patient as the Lord punishes I will be patient as the Lord punishes I will be patient as the Lord punishes me. For I have sinned against him. But me. For I have sinned against him. But me. For I have sinned against him. But after that, he will take up my case and after that, he will take up my case and after that, he will take up my case and give me justice." So I I I love how we give me justice." So I I I love how we give me justice." So I I I love how we get this picture of of the righteous man get this picture of of the righteous man get this picture of of the righteous man who can acknowledge his sin and who he who can acknowledge his sin and who he who can acknowledge his sin and who he says this is the recourse that I will says this is the recourse that I will says this is the recourse that I will take. I will I will I will repent. I take. I will I will I will repent. I take. I will I will I will repent. I will acknowledge I will let God do what will acknowledge I will let God do what will acknowledge I will let God do what he's going to do but also know that he's he's going to do but also know that he's he's going to do but also know that he's that his love for me will give me that his love for me will give me that his love for me will give me justice and will bring me into his justice and will bring me into his justice and will bring me into his righteousness. And it's the complete righteousness. And it's the complete righteousness. And it's the complete opposite of what these leaders have opposite of what these leaders have opposite of what these leaders have done, of which Mike is calling out to done, of which Mike is calling out to done, of which Mike is calling out to these leaders like, "Guys, I'm going to these leaders like, "Guys, I'm going to these leaders like, "Guys, I'm going to do this. So, you guys can keep doing do this. So, you guys can keep doing do this. So, you guys can keep doing that and reap the consequences of that, that and reap the consequences of that, that and reap the consequences of that, but I'm going to turn and repent and but I'm going to turn and repent and but I'm going to turn and repent and just sit with God." And it's a just a just sit with God." And it's a just a just sit with God." And it's a just a >> and some of the prophets do that. I >> and some of the prophets do that. I >> and some of the prophets do that. I think Habachics kind of does the same think Habachics kind of does the same think Habachics kind of does the same thing. So, thing. So, thing. So, >> yes, we haven't got there yet. That >> yes, we haven't got there yet. That >> yes, we haven't got there yet. That one's coming up soon. Um, so we've one's coming up soon. Um, so we've one's coming up soon. Um, so we've mentioned a bunch of passages and verses mentioned a bunch of passages and verses mentioned a bunch of passages and verses from this book, but I want to give you from this book, but I want to give you from this book, but I want to give you the opportunity to highlight. Is there the opportunity to highlight. Is there the opportunity to highlight. Is there like two that that you want to make sure like two that that you want to make sure like two that that you want to make sure that people flag even before they start that people flag even before they start that people flag even before they start reading the book? Say like, "Hey, go reading the book? Say like, "Hey, go reading the book? Say like, "Hey, go ahead early and just make a note of this ahead early and just make a note of this ahead early and just make a note of this one so that when you get to it, this one so that when you get to it, this one so that when you get to it, this one's going to stand out in a certain one's going to stand out in a certain one's going to stand out in a certain way."

way." way." >> Well, um, I would say probably 68 >> Well, um, I would say probably 68 >> Well, um, I would say probably 68 >> sure >> sure >> sure >> would be one. I've got it in a big box >> would be one. I've got it in a big box >> would be one. I've got it in a big box in my Bible. in my Bible. in my Bible. >> Yeah. 718 >> Yeah. 718 >> Yeah. 718 >> 18 and 19, which is the one that talks >> 18 and 19, which is the one that talks >> 18 and 19, which is the one that talks about the compassion and mercy of God. about the compassion and mercy of God. about the compassion and mercy of God. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> And um so those would be the first two >> And um so those would be the first two >> And um so those would be the first two that I would point to. Great. that I would point to. Great. that I would point to. Great. >> Um a lot of people because they're very >> Um a lot of people because they're very >> Um a lot of people because they're very familiar with the passage in Micah 4 familiar with the passage in Micah 4 familiar with the passage in Micah 4 that resembles the one in Isaiah is that resembles the one in Isaiah is that resembles the one in Isaiah is going to say that. going to say that. going to say that. >> Yeah. But I don't think I mean even >> Yeah. But I don't think I mean even >> Yeah. But I don't think I mean even though that's important, though that's important, though that's important, I feel like you get the gist of the book I feel like you get the gist of the book I feel like you get the gist of the book by looking at the two other passages. by looking at the two other passages. by looking at the two other passages. This is what you're supposed to do and This is what you're supposed to do and This is what you're supposed to do and this is who God is. this is who God is. this is who God is. >> Yep. >> Yep. >> Yep. >> And that summarizes everything that's >> And that summarizes everything that's >> And that summarizes everything that's going on in the book. going on in the book. going on in the book. >> Yep. I love it. Even just that little >> Yep. I love it. Even just that little >> Yep. I love it. Even just that little part in at the end of chapter 2, that part in at the end of chapter 2, that part in at the end of chapter 2, that hope for restoration pieces is is great, hope for restoration pieces is is great, hope for restoration pieces is is great, too. The Lord himself will guide you is too. The Lord himself will guide you is too. The Lord himself will guide you is how that chapter ends. Like that's just how that chapter ends. Like that's just how that chapter ends. Like that's just a great a great a great >> Well, yeah. And that just it is it tells >> Well, yeah. And that just it is it tells >> Well, yeah. And that just it is it tells you in there it identifies which is you in there it identifies which is you in there it identifies which is interesting it identifies the shepherd interesting it identifies the shepherd interesting it identifies the shepherd >> Yeah.

>> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> um as God himself. >> um as God himself. >> um as God himself. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> Yes. >> So even when they um allude to the >> So even when they um allude to the >> So even when they um allude to the shepherd in chapter 5 in four and five shepherd in chapter 5 in four and five shepherd in chapter 5 in four and five and they allude to the shepherd language and they allude to the shepherd language and they allude to the shepherd language again in chapter 7 um in all those again in chapter 7 um in all those again in chapter 7 um in all those instances then we already know we've instances then we already know we've instances then we already know we've identified who or the the identity of identified who or the the identity of identified who or the the identity of the shepherd is already known. the shepherd is already known. the shepherd is already known. >> Yeah. which I think we mentioned >> Yeah. which I think we mentioned >> Yeah. which I think we mentioned earlier, but I wanted to make sure that earlier, but I wanted to make sure that earlier, but I wanted to make sure that we said it again. we said it again. we said it again. >> Always very interesting when there's a >> Always very interesting when there's a >> Always very interesting when there's a justosition here between these wealthy justosition here between these wealthy justosition here between these wealthy oppressors and the shepherd who is going oppressors and the shepherd who is going oppressors and the shepherd who is going to rule Bethlehem. Anyway, just putting to rule Bethlehem. Anyway, just putting to rule Bethlehem. Anyway, just putting that out there again. All right. So, are that out there again. All right. So, are that out there again. All right. So, are there any what I call quote sticky parts there any what I call quote sticky parts there any what I call quote sticky parts of this book? parts that are maybe of this book? parts that are maybe of this book? parts that are maybe confusing, difficult to read, something confusing, difficult to read, something confusing, difficult to read, something that is worth wanting to point out ahead that is worth wanting to point out ahead that is worth wanting to point out ahead of time being like, "Hey, just so you of time being like, "Hey, just so you of time being like, "Hey, just so you know, you're going to read this. It can know, you're going to read this. It can know, you're going to read this. It can be a little confusing or or hard to be a little confusing or or hard to be a little confusing or or hard to read. read. read. >> There are places in the book of Micah >> There are places in the book of Micah >> There are places in the book of Micah where when he is um speaking on behalf where when he is um speaking on behalf where when he is um speaking on behalf of of God of of God of of God >> um that he changes from first person to >> um that he changes from first person to >> um that he changes from first person to third person, you know, to second third person, you know, to second third person, you know, to second person." Um so there's a lot of person." Um so there's a lot of person." Um so there's a lot of transitions of voice and mood in the transitions of voice and mood in the transitions of voice and mood in the book um when we're talking about grammar book um when we're talking about grammar book um when we're talking about grammar that is um so that and the use of that is um so that and the use of that is um so that and the use of pronouns and so that kind of thing pronouns and so that kind of thing pronouns and so that kind of thing sometimes confuses people.

sometimes confuses people. sometimes confuses people. >> Sure. >> Sure. >> Sure. >> Part of the problem is that or part of >> Part of the problem is that or part of >> Part of the problem is that or part of the issue is that we could consider the issue is that we could consider the issue is that we could consider Micah to be prophetic poetry Micah to be prophetic poetry Micah to be prophetic poetry >> and the rules of of biblical Hebrew >> and the rules of of biblical Hebrew >> and the rules of of biblical Hebrew poetry are a little different from poetry are a little different from poetry are a little different from normal narrative. So, it's really not a normal narrative. So, it's really not a normal narrative. So, it's really not a narrative book, you know, it's not just narrative book, you know, it's not just narrative book, you know, it's not just telling a story like Genesis does or, telling a story like Genesis does or, telling a story like Genesis does or, you know, um and um and so um a lot of you know, um and um and so um a lot of you know, um and um and so um a lot of that has to do with fluidity then of um that has to do with fluidity then of um that has to do with fluidity then of um you know, person number and gender. It's you know, person number and gender. It's you know, person number and gender. It's fluid in biblical poetry where it isn't fluid in biblical poetry where it isn't fluid in biblical poetry where it isn't so much in um uh in narrative. But I so much in um uh in narrative. But I so much in um uh in narrative. But I will say that probably part of it is will say that probably part of it is will say that probably part of it is this total um I don't know one this this total um I don't know one this this total um I don't know one this total possession of God of Micah by God. total possession of God of Micah by God. total possession of God of Micah by God. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> You know Micah's speaking but actually >> You know Micah's speaking but actually >> You know Micah's speaking but actually God is speaking Yeah. God is speaking Yeah. God is speaking Yeah. >> through Micah. And so I think that that >> through Micah. And so I think that that >> through Micah. And so I think that that adds a that probably um uh gives us some adds a that probably um uh gives us some adds a that probably um uh gives us some of the reason for this kind of confusion of the reason for this kind of confusion of the reason for this kind of confusion and this back and forth.

and this back and forth. and this back and forth. >> Yep. Um, and um, probably the other >> Yep. Um, and um, probably the other >> Yep. Um, and um, probably the other thing that some people struggle with is thing that some people struggle with is thing that some people struggle with is um, God using other nations to punish um, God using other nations to punish um, God using other nations to punish Israel and then after they do what he Israel and then after they do what he Israel and then after they do what he wants them to do, then he's going to wants them to do, then he's going to wants them to do, then he's going to turn around and punish them. [laughter] turn around and punish them. [laughter] turn around and punish them. [laughter] >> Sure. >> Sure. >> Sure. >> So, um, that's probably difficult to >> So, um, that's probably difficult to >> So, um, that's probably difficult to justify sometimes. justify sometimes. justify sometimes. >> Just another thing to wrestle with. But >> Just another thing to wrestle with. But >> Just another thing to wrestle with. But if you hold a high view of God's if you hold a high view of God's if you hold a high view of God's providence, then you can uh trust his providence, then you can uh trust his providence, then you can uh trust his justice and goodness and and you can justice and goodness and and you can justice and goodness and and you can even say, "God, I'm I I I Why are you even say, "God, I'm I I I Why are you even say, "God, I'm I I I Why are you doing it this way?" And just bring that doing it this way?" And just bring that doing it this way?" And just bring that to him for sure. Um all right, Sherry, to him for sure. Um all right, Sherry, to him for sure. Um all right, Sherry, you have helped us to navigate so much you have helped us to navigate so much you have helped us to navigate so much through this book of Micah. I really through this book of Micah. I really through this book of Micah. I really appreciate it. Is there anything that appreciate it. Is there anything that appreciate it. Is there anything that you would like to leave people thinking you would like to leave people thinking you would like to leave people thinking about with this book in particular? about with this book in particular? about with this book in particular? Um I just think that maybe um giving Um I just think that maybe um giving Um I just think that maybe um giving looking at the book and doing some very looking at the book and doing some very looking at the book and doing some very you know deep introspection you know deep introspection you know deep introspection we see ourselves in this book in we see ourselves in this book in we see ourselves in this book in different places different places different places >> and by by reflecting on it and looking >> and by by reflecting on it and looking >> and by by reflecting on it and looking at it carefully we might not be um we at it carefully we might not be um we at it carefully we might not be um we might not be cheating somebody out of might not be cheating somebody out of might not be cheating somebody out of their property their property their property >> but there are ways in which this book >> but there are ways in which this book >> but there are ways in which this book applies to all of us and to all of the applies to all of us and to all of the applies to all of us and to all of the kinds of things that we're doing and kinds of things that we're doing and kinds of things that we're doing and that we also should probably not um that we also should probably not um that we also should probably not um um well we can we can understand that well we can we can understand that sometimes the reason things are not sometimes the reason things are not sometimes the reason things are not going well is because we are out of our

going well is because we are out of our going well is because we are out of our relationship with God but also that not relationship with God but also that not relationship with God but also that not every time things are not going well. every time things are not going well. every time things are not going well. >> Yeah. [laughter] >> Yeah. [laughter] >> Yeah. [laughter] um that that um sometimes it's just a um that that um sometimes it's just a um that that um sometimes it's just a matter of testing or trial or um you matter of testing or trial or um you matter of testing or trial or um you know done for our growth or something know done for our growth or something know done for our growth or something else and it's not necessarily that we've else and it's not necessarily that we've else and it's not necessarily that we've done something wrong and that God is done something wrong and that God is done something wrong and that God is angry with us. angry with us. angry with us. >> This book is an opportunity it's really >> This book is an opportunity it's really >> This book is an opportunity it's really it's really a treatise on having a it's really a treatise on having a it's really a treatise on having a relationship with God having an active relationship with God having an active relationship with God having an active ongoing relationship with God where it's ongoing relationship with God where it's ongoing relationship with God where it's a reminder to be able to talk with him a reminder to be able to talk with him a reminder to be able to talk with him about God. Are there any of these things about God. Are there any of these things about God. Are there any of these things that you are seeing in my life that that that you are seeing in my life that that that you are seeing in my life that that I'm blind to right now? Asking you to I'm blind to right now? Asking you to I'm blind to right now? Asking you to point that out. But also, if there are point that out. But also, if there are point that out. But also, if there are things that are happening in your life things that are happening in your life things that are happening in your life to say like, God, I don't know if this to say like, God, I don't know if this to say like, God, I don't know if this is a result of something or not, but I'm is a result of something or not, but I'm is a result of something or not, but I'm going to be with you. Like, I I I want going to be with you. Like, I I I want going to be with you. Like, I I I want you to sit with me in this and I and you to sit with me in this and I and you to sit with me in this and I and thank you. And if there is anything, thank you. And if there is anything, thank you. And if there is anything, please point it out to me. But if you please point it out to me. But if you please point it out to me. But if you help me to know what it is I'm doing help me to know what it is I'm doing help me to know what it is I'm doing wrong, if I'm doing something wrong. wrong, if I'm doing something wrong. wrong, if I'm doing something wrong. >> And if I if there's nothing that you are >> And if I if there's nothing that you are >> And if I if there's nothing that you are pointing out to me, then I know that I pointing out to me, then I know that I pointing out to me, then I know that I can sit here with you in this while can sit here with you in this while can sit here with you in this while these things happen and that you are on these things happen and that you are on these things happen and that you are on the other side of it because your the other side of it because your the other side of it because your faithfulness is is true and real. And faithfulness is is true and real. And faithfulness is is true and real. And that's where that part that we were that's where that part that we were that's where that part that we were reading earlier from chapter 7 comes in, reading earlier from chapter 7 comes in, reading earlier from chapter 7 comes in, right? I though I sit in darkness, the right? I though I sit in darkness, the right? I though I sit in darkness, the Lord will be my light. And so that's a Lord will be my light. And so that's a Lord will be my light. And so that's a that's a perfect way to wrap up this that's a perfect way to wrap up this that's a perfect way to wrap up this book. Sherry, I really appreciate your book. Sherry, I really appreciate your book. Sherry, I really appreciate your time taking us through the book of time taking us through the book of time taking us through the book of Micah. Would you mind closing us in Micah. Would you mind closing us in Micah. Would you mind closing us in prayer? Specifically, praying for people

prayer? Specifically, praying for people prayer? Specifically, praying for people as they read Micah. Maybe they've never as they read Micah. Maybe they've never as they read Micah. Maybe they've never read it before, maybe they want to dive read it before, maybe they want to dive read it before, maybe they want to dive back into it now. And uh I would back into it now. And uh I would back into it now. And uh I would appreciate if you would close us with appreciate if you would close us with appreciate if you would close us with that. that. that. >> Okay. >> Okay. >> Okay. Hi God, it's us. Hi God, it's us. Hi God, it's us. Um, [music] we're here to ask you that Um, [music] we're here to ask you that Um, [music] we're here to ask you that you would give those readers and hearers you would give those readers and hearers you would give those readers and hearers of the book of Micah understanding of the book of Micah understanding of the book of Micah understanding in terms [music] of in terms [music] of in terms [music] of seeing what what the major points of the seeing what what the major points of the seeing what what the major points of the book are and how Micah is seeking to book are and how Micah is seeking to book are and how Micah is seeking to help us to uncover those things that are help us to uncover those things that are help us to uncover those things that are displeasing to [music] you in our lives displeasing to [music] you in our lives displeasing to [music] you in our lives and also helping us to see that you are and also helping us to see that you are and also helping us to see that you are a merciful and gracious God and that a merciful and gracious God and that a merciful and gracious God and that even though we they go through times of even though we they go through times of even though we they go through times of trouble or difficulty. trouble or difficulty. trouble or difficulty. That [music] that time is a short time That [music] that time is a short time That [music] that time is a short time and that you will not if this is a and that you will not if this is a and that you will not if this is a result of your anger or discipline that result of your anger or discipline that result of your anger or discipline that this will not be something that will go this will not be something that will go this will not be something that will go on forever but that um there will be an on forever but that um there will be an on forever but that um there will be an end to it once we are restored in end to it once we are restored in end to it once we are restored in relationship with you. Just give people relationship with you. Just give people relationship with you. Just give people guidance. Help them not to be afraid to guidance. Help them not to be afraid to guidance. Help them not to be afraid to read the book. help them not to be read the book. help them not to be read the book. help them not to be afraid of all the historical things afraid of all the historical things afraid of all the historical things going on at the [music] time because going on at the [music] time because going on at the [music] time because quite frankly the book itself is able is quite frankly the book itself is able is quite frankly the book itself is able is a book that is relevant to today and to a book that is relevant to today and to a book that is relevant to today and to the way that we um treat one another. Um the way that we um treat one another. Um the way that we um treat one another. Um it is so important [music] that we look it is so important [music] that we look it is so important [music] that we look at the dignity of all people and that we at the dignity of all people and that we at the dignity of all people and that we um show our love and concern towards um show our love and concern towards um show our love and concern towards [music] them and that we don't take [music] them and that we don't take [music] them and that we don't take advantage of people um in our lives advantage of people um in our lives advantage of people um in our lives [music] and that at the same time we

[music] and that at the same time we [music] and that at the same time we strive not to put ourselves first but to strive not to put ourselves first but to strive not to put ourselves first but to put God first and let him [music] guide put God first and let him [music] guide put God first and let him [music] guide us and lead us um as we live our daily us and lead us um as we live our daily us and lead us um as we live our daily lives in order to please him. [music] We lives in order to please him. [music] We lives in order to please him. [music] We thank you and praise you in Jesus' name. thank you and praise you in Jesus' name. thank you and praise you in Jesus' name. Amen.