Micah 4:1-15

Bright Visions of the Future

Micah’s view of Israel’s future, especially in relation to the nations. He believes that God chose Israel to maintain and teach true religion, and that in this lies Israel’s greatness. The people have forgotten this and have tried to emulate the other nations in wealth and pride and armed strength. Such a contest was hopeless, and God will prove its hopelessness by bringing ruin on Jerusalem, where these pomps were gathered. But, when the chastisement has done its work, the nation will return to its divinely-given task. It will have a mission to the nations.

The chapters appear to contradict each other as to the result on the nations’ fate. This is because Micah regards the peoples as free agents, and the religion Israel teaches as no mere ceremonial observances. The nations may recognise Israel’s message, and, submitting to God’s will, receive the blessing He gives (Micah 4:1-5). They may refuse it. But, if they obstinately oppose it, they shall be overthrown (Micah 4:11-13). For, since the truths Israel represents are divine in their origin, these must be a blessing or a curse, according as men accept or refuse them (Micah 5:7-9)