Micah was a prophet about the same time as Isaiah during the reigns of kings Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. Jotham was a good king following in the steps of his father. 2Chronicles 27.6. Ahaz was an evil king. 2 Chronicles 28:1. Hezekiah was a good king. 2 Chronicles 29:1-2. Because Micah’s message was about both Israel and Judah, it was probably written during the reign of Ahaz. Despair is for those who turn from God and refuse to repent; hope is for God’s people who have to face the same consequences as there fellow citizens.
Theme: Hope or Despair
Outline:
1A. Who’s to blame for the despair? Chapters 1-3
2A. Who’s to benefit from the hope? Chapters 4-7
Key Verses: “Where is another God like you, who pardons the guilt of the remnant, overlooking the sins of His special people? You will not stay angry with your people forever, because you delight in showing unfailing love. Once again you will have compassion on us. You will trample out sins under your feet and throw them into the depths of the ocean! You will show us your faithfulness and unfailing love as you promised our ancestors Abraham and Jacob long ago.” Micah 7:18-20.