Read Micah 5:1–5a
Questions from the Scripture text: What does v1 call Jerusalem? What are they to do? What has the Lord done to them? What will the nations in this siege do? What is the condition of Bethlehem (v2a–b)? Who will come forth from them (v2c–d)? From where does He ultimately come forth (v2e–f)? How long will the Lord give Israel up (v3a–b)? What will happen then (v3c–d)? What will this Ruler do (v4)? In what strength? And what majesty? With what result for His flock? And what status for Him? What shall He be (v5a)?
What is the point of Israel’s humiliation? Micah 5:1–5a looks forward to the hearing of God’s Word read in the public worship on the coming Lord’s Day. In these five verses of Holy Scripture, the Holy Spirit teaches us that Israel is humbled so that YHWH can bring divine salvation from human weakness in the God-Man.
Again, Micah sees the “now” (v1a) of the upcoming exile. Israel’s king will get smashed (v1d), and this will continue until the time of the birth (v3b) of the Ruler (v2d). The humbling of Israel is seen in that He comes not from Jerusalem (which is not “daughter of Zion” but the besieged “daughter of troops,” v1), but from the little town of Bethlehem (v2a–b). Out of deserved judgment and weakness, the Lord brings great strength by making the Eternal One (v2e–f) to be born of a woman as the Shepherd, strong as YHWH and majestic as YHWH, because He is YHWH (v4). His people abide, because He is great (v4d–f); indeed, He is their peace (v5a).
In what ways are you deservedly brought low? In what ways are you weak? How does God glorify Himself in your life from this? In Whom does God do this? Whom do you know Jesus to be to yourself and to His church?
Sample prayer: Lord, forgive us for our illusions of goodness and strength. We praise You for how Your goodness is the answer for our wickedness, and Your strength the answer for our weakness. Give us neither to be discouraged in distress or proud in peace, but to rejoice over Jesus, the God-Man, Whose strength and majesty are our peace. For, we ask it through Him, AMEN!
Suggested Songs: ARP2 “Why Do Gentile Nations Rage” or TPH2B “Why Do Heathen Nations Rage”
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