As Pastor Jackson begins our study in Micah, we are reminded that prophetic literature is not just about foretelling events, but about calling God’s people back to faithfulness, justice, and humility before Him. Micah, part of “The Book of the Twelve,” confronts the inseparable realities of idolatry and injustice, exposing how God’s people had turned away from His covenant love. To understand his message, we must look at the historical backdrop of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, when Assyria’s shadow loomed large and trust in human power proved fragile. In Micah 1:1-7, we see that God takes sin and suffering seriously, holding His people accountable as a loving and holy Creator. In a culture that often ignores Him, the church today is called to embody Micah’s timeless message: to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God—showing the world that His presence is real and His care is deeply personal.

Discussion Questions

1.      How does understanding the genre of prophetic literature help us in reading Micah? What are the distinctive traits of prophets? What does it mean that Micah is part of “The Book of the Twelve”?

2.      Take some time to consider the history behind Micah, especially the lives of the three kings who ruled when he was a prophet (Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah). What was going on during the times of these kings that would be helpful to know for our study? Especially consider the Assyrian’s relationship to Israel and Judah at this time.

3.      What is the relationship between idolatry and injustice? Why can we not separate the two when reading the prophets?

4.      Micah 1:1-7 reminds us that God takes what happens to his creation seriously. In a culture where we don’t take God seriously how can we, as the church, live in such a way that God is real to us? Do we have a deep and tangible awareness of God’s care for us and his involvement in our lives as the body of Christ? Why or why not?

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