(REFLECTIONS ON Micah 3:1-12)

1 And I said,
“Hear now, heads of Jacob
And rulers of the house of Israel.
Is it not for you to know justice?

Yes, it is for them to know justice, but what happens when those in positions of authority rather than knowing justice, know only evil and bring about destruction, pain, and anguish because of their love of evil?

What happens when the prophets, who are to speak the word of the Lord, lead people astray and cry “Peace,” for those who are paying them and feeding them, and declare “holy war” against those that do not feed their hungry stomachs?

Who will stand up? Who will speak the truth? Who will look beyond financial gain, worldly power and authority, and bow rather to the word of God?

Who will be a prophet in the world today, yes, and even in the church today like Micah the prophet?

8 On the other hand I am filled with power—
With the Spirit of the Lord—
And with justice and courage
To make known to Jacob his rebellious act,
Even to Israel his sin.

We are not just to speak with justice and courage against the iniquities and injustice of the world, but also the lack of truth and God’s heart in the church. We aren’t just to preach a message of our own form of justice courageously against the powers and authorities of this world, but then turn a blind eye as God’s church turns into a business or a social gathering place instead of a house of worship.

11 Her leaders pronounce judgment for a bribe,
Her priests instruct for a price
And her prophets divine for money.
Yet they lean on the Lord saying,
“Is not the Lord in our midst?
Calamity will not come upon us.”

Are we Christians for sale at a price? Or are we Christians that follow Christ? Who can pay us off? No, I am not only speaking to professional pastors, church staff, elders, deacons, etc. but also to the Christians in our midst.

Who can pay us off? And turn what should be a life of servitude to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, into a life devoted to, working for, and selling our souls out for, the highest bidder?

Pastor Michael Lu
Enduring Word Bible Commentary: Micah 3