JUST. LIKE. GOD. A teaching series in the book of

AUGUST – OCTOBER 2020 Sundays & Fellowship Groups JUST. A teaching series in the LIKE. GOD.

A TIME TO REFLECT, SEE AND WITNESS

Every generation in history can identify (to a lesser or greater extent) with Job’s words, “Yet man is born to trouble as surely as sparks fly upward” (Job 5:7). There isn’t a century that goes by where there isn’t trouble. Each is marked by political and economic instability, wars, famines, plagues and constant change. For example, the time of the Reformation was also the time of the Bubonic plagues, war between European empires, civil wars and the imperial expansion of the Turkish empire. In 1527 Luther’s hometown suffered the Black Plague and then in 1528 (just a year later), the Turks laid siege to Vienna. The generation after Luther suffered the 30 Year Civil War in Germany, which claimed two thirds of the German population.

The 20th and 21st Centuries are no different. In fact, the 20th Century is considered the bloodiest century in recorded history (Anglo-Boer War, WW1, Russian Revolution, WW2, Chinese Revolution, the civil wars due to the collapse of the European Empires and the smaller wars instigated by the Cold War). It has also witnessed tremendous political changes (the rise and fall of Fascism, Communism, Imperialism and Apartheid) and devastating plagues (like the Spanish Influenza of 1917-1918 that claimed anything between 10-50 million people’s lives). Our Prime Minister at the time (Gen. Louis Botha) died from the Spanish influenza of 1917-1918. We haven’t even considered the economic roller coaster all these events have caused.

The 21st Century started with the rise of Terrorism. We have witnessed the Arab spring and the various civil wars that ensued (the current Yemen and Syrian civil wars are examples). Southern Africa has seen the collapse of the Zimbabwean economy A teaching series in the book of Micah and the instability this has created in our region. And as I am writing, the world is facing the plague of COVID-19 and a global depression.

Even though we can see these patterns in history and today, what we sometimes lack is the lens to interpret them and be a faithful witness in that time. In many ways, this is where the book of Micah will be incredibly helpful. Rather than looking at our lives and events as random, Micah will help us discover how God is at work in our world and the hope we have in Him. Hope that will empower us to keep being fruitful and faithful in a time like this. In Micah we will see what God is like, pointing forward to and shedding light on our world as well.

Let us not waste the time God has given us but be ready to be salt and light in a time such as this (Matt. 5:13-16).

Your brother in Christ,

Carel Pienaar Phil. 1:21 3 Sermon Notes for :1 (Introduction)

4 Journeying from the to the New Testament…

In the New Testament, Jesus makes multiple claims that the Old Testament pointed to Him as its fulfilment (cf. Matt. 5:17-20; John 5:39-47; Lk. 24:27, 44). This claim also applies to Micah (which we are looking at now).

To help you on your journey through Micah to Jesus, here are a number of things to consider when you read the Old Testament and begin to relate it to Jesus as its fulfilment…

1) First principle: The original audience

Although Micah is also written for us (cf. 1 Pet. 1:10-12), it was originally written for his immediate audience first. Consequently, it is important to know when and to whom Micah wrote and spoke his prophecies. What Micah said would have been relevant to their immediate situation. Regarding Micah, the period described in 2 Kings 16-21 is the historical setting and first audience of Micah’s words.

2) Second principle: The Old Testament story

It is important to remember where Micah fits in the larger Old Testament story (what has gone before and what is going to happen after). Micah will continually refer to events and pictures that have already taken place in Israel’s story with God. For example, Micah’s language in Micah 7:17 sounds a lot like Genesis 3:14-15. Micah speaks of (:6); which is only really explained in Genesis 10:8-11 and is related to the Tower of Babel in Gen. 11 (in the region of Shinar/Babylon: the territory of Nimrod). The references to as well as the Messiah’s humble origins in Micah 5:2, mirror David’s origins in 1 Samuel. These “hints” help unlock the meaning of Micah.

Furthermore, Micah’s themes occur in Isaiah and Ezekiel (for example, idolatry, corruption, judgment, remnant and the Messiah). The concept of remnant gets picked up in the story of Ezra-Nehemiah. Reading “forward” also begins to unveil more of the meaning of Micah.

3) Third principle: Multiple-Fulfilments (the three eras of Jesus’ ministry)

When you go to the New Testament, every Old Testament book can be applied in three chronological spheres that relate to Jesus’ ministry. There is: 1) the inauguration of Jesus’ ministry (the Gospels); 2) the continuation of Jesus’ ministry (the Last Days and the Church as the body of Christ) and 3) the Consummation of Jesus’ ministry (The Return of Jesus). The picture below illustrates this…

5 The Church/ Last Days

Inauguration Continuaition Consummation

To demonstrate this, let us look at Micah’s words on in :1-5. At the inauguration of Jesus’ ministry In John’s Gospel, John and Jesus make the radical claim that Jesus is the tabernacle/temple (Jn. 1:14; 2:19-22). When He is exalted on the Cross, but also in His resurrection and ascension, the nations will be drawn to Him (Jn. 12:32) (like the Jerusalem/ we read of in Micah 4).

In the continuation of Jesus’ ministry, we see God’s presence indwell His people through the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2). It will be from “Jerusalem” that the Word of Jesus will go to all nations (Acts 1:8; 8:1). Now, the church is the Temple of God (Eph. 2:19-22), consisting of all nations who have been reconciled by the “peace” of Christ (Ephesians 2:11-18). So now, the teaching of the fulfilled Law (in Jesus) goes out to the ends of the earth, bringing more and more people under the rule of Christ (Matt. 28:18-20).

At the consummation (the return), we see the “New Jerusalem” coming down from heaven (Rev. 21:1-8) and into whom all the nations who follow Jesus will come (Rev. 21:26). It will be a place where the new order of the Messiah will be fully established and the old order of chaos, rebellion and death be done away with. It is here that the peace and prosperity envisioned in Micah 4:1-5 finds its ultimate fulfilment.

Yet, to see this, you need to apply the second principle to your reading…

4) Fourth Principle: Signposts

There are at least four ways in which you can make legitimate connections between the Old Testament and Jesus. These are the four signposts you should be looking for…

a) Fulfilment language: like Jesus reading Isaiah 61:1-2 and saying, “Today this Scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (Lk. 4:21). Jesus is saying that He is the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecy about the Herald proclaiming Good News. The rest of Luke and Isaiah 61 will flesh that out for you. But when you read Isaiah 61, you are not reading it properly if you do not relate it (in some way) to Jesus.

6 b) Typology: An event, ritual or person is a copy/shadow of the reality that is Jesus. For example, the earthly temple where earthly sacrifices were made was a “type” of the real Heavenly Throne room where Jesus will make atonement on the Cross: “They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly things. For when was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, ‘See that you make everything according to the pattern that was shown you on the mountain.’” (Hebrews 8:5ff)

c) Contrast or comparison (linked with typology): Whereas a person (who should be something) failed in the Old Testament, Jesus fulfills what that person should have been. For example, the contrasts made between Adam and Jesus are numerous: “For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive”. (1 Corinthians 15:21-22)

d) Echoes: Often the authors of the Bible (inspired by the Holy Spirit) connect various events together through themes that get echoed in the various stories. For example, Adam and Eve got “exiled” or banished from the Garden of Eden due to sin (Gen. 3:24), being refused entry by the cherubim. The Tabernacle/Temple is filled with echoes of the Garden of Eden (pomegranates, palm trees, cherubim). Like Eden, access to God’s holy presence is barred.

Joshua enters the Promised Land on the east side (crossing the Jordan) and is met by an angelic figure with a drawn sword (Joshua 5:13-15). This event echoes what we have seen in the Garden of Eden in Genesis 3:24. This echo also informs us how we should view the Promised Land (The restoration of Eden). We see Israel being exiled from the Promised Land in Kings and Chronicles, banished from the Land (another echo). Matthew’s Gospel intentionally starts with mentioning the Exile (Matt. 1:1-17) and why the boy must be called “Jesus/Joshua” (Matt. 1:20-21). These echoes link Matthew’s Gospel to a theme that started way back in Genesis 3. Jesus’ arrival marks the beginning of the conclusion of that theme.

Ultimately, the journey of seeing how Jesus fulfills the Old Testament and the Old Testament points to Jesus is a lifelong endeavour of continually reading, studying and meditating on the Scriptures. We never graduate from the school of knowing Jesus in the Bible; rather it is a journey that begins in this life and continues in eternity. In this sense, you can read Micah your whole life and find “new threads” that tie to Jesus, His people and His Return.

7 Micah 1:1 The World of Micah and the Themes

STUDY 1

1. We live in a very uncertain period at the moment (COVID-19, economic downturn, social instability etc.). Yet, how do you think Christians should respond or understand such times? Investigating

Read Micah 1:1…

1. Where does Micah’s message come from? To whom was he writing?

2. When did Micah proclaim his message?

3. The prophet Micah’s messages have been structured into three large sets. Chapters 1-2 is during the time of King . Chapters 3-5 is during the time of King . Chapters 6-7 is during the time after . Work as a group to fill in the table below

What happened What happened during What happened during the time the time of King Ahaz? after King Hezekiah? of King Hezekiah?

Read 1 Kings 16:1-17:6 Read 1 Kings 18:9-18 Read 1 Kings 21:1-9

What is Micah’s main What is Micah’s main What is Micah’s main message in this message in this message in this section? section? section? Chapters 1-2: Look at Chapters 3-5: Look at Chapters 6-7: Look at Micah 1:5-6 and 2:12-13 :9-12 and 5:1-4 :16 and 7:18-20

4. Each section begins with the same command. How should Micah’s audience respond to his words? (see Micah 1:2; 3:1; 6:1)

8 Thinking & Living

The name Micah means “Who is like Yahweh”? The book ends with this question in Micah 7:18: “Who is a God like you”. What is clear is that Micah’s audience ( and Jerusalem) did not know Yahweh as they should, twisting the Old Testament promises to suit their sinful lifestyle (cf. Micah 3:11). Yet, Micah points out that God will judge and only after judgment will there be salvation.

1. In the midst of global upheaval and judgment (for Micah it was the Assyrian and later Babylonian exile) how does Micah call God’s faithful people to respond? (cf. Micah 7:7-9)

2. From your read-through of Micah (hopefully!) and the passages we have looked at today, what are some of the big themes in the book and how are they important for Christians today?

3. Micah looked forward to a day when God would gather the remnant like a shepherd (:12-13). Yet, God will do this through His promised King born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:4) and will remove all the sins of His people (Micah 7:18-20). How does the New Testament point to Jesus as the fulfilment of Micah’s hope?

• Where he was born (Matt. 2:1)

• Why he was born? (Matt. 1:21); (Matt. 10:6)

• How he described himself (in very Micah-like language)? (John 10:11, 16).

• How will Jesus save His people from their sins and end their exile? How does the Cross mirror the idea of salvation after judgment? (cf. Hebrews 12:1-3)

9 Points to Pray… (now and during the week)

As we reflect on the main themes of Micah, lets also respond in prayer…

1. Praising God that we have the fulfilment of Micah’s message in Jesus (1 Pet. 1:9-12)

2. As we see evidence of God’s warning and judgment in the world today (like the current plague, economic downturn and instability)

• Grant us wisdom to understand and interpret our situation in the light of Micah (James 1:5)

• We would be bold to share the hope/salvation we have in Jesus with others in our Valley (Acts 4:29-31)

• We would not despair, but remain confident in the hope we have in Jesus and persevere through trials (Heb. 12:1-3)

• People would respond in repentance and faith, turning to Jesus (Lk. 13:1-9)

3. Pray for our mission partners. Visit our website: https:// stpetersfishhoek.org.za/missions/ for more details (this is updated on a monthly basis)

4. Ubabalo neThemba Church in Masiphumalele. Pray for Pastor Bheki (and his congregation) for wisdom, strength and protection as he tirelessly seeks to make disciples for Jesus in Masi.

5. iThemba School. Pray for Janet Webb and the staff team as they seek to be “salt” and “light” in our community through the school (Matt. 5:13-16)

10 Sermon Notes for Micah 1:2-16

11 Micah 1:2-16 Disaster! STUDY 2

Currently, South Africa (and the world) is suffering through a cycle of economic depression, socio-political upheaval and disease (COVID-19).

1. How should Christians understand these things? What is our message in a time like this?

Investigating

Read Micah 1:2-7… Disaster for Samaria!

Keep in mind that Micah is Hebrew poetry, rich in imagery. It is often in what you “see” and “feel” as you read it that you begin to understand the message …

1. Micah is calling the entire earth to listen (v. 2). God is about to act as judge. How does Micah describe God’s judgment? (vv. 3-4)

2. Why is God going to act as judge? What is the fundamental transgression He is opposing? (v. 5)

3. What will be the result of God’s judgment against Samaria? (vv. 6-7)

Read Micah 1:8-16 … Lament for Jerusalem

1. How does Micah respond to his own prophetic message? What implication does Samaria’s fall have for Jerusalem? (vv. 8-9)

2. In vv. 10-15, Micah does a series of wordplays of town/ stronghold names and what will happen to them during the Assyrian invasion. All the towns are in a 14km radius from Micah’s hometown Moresheth, south of Jerusalem. What will happen when Assyria invades?

12 Judgment

V. 10 ()

V. 10 (Beth-le-aphrah)

V. 11 (Shaphir)

V. 11 (Zanaan)

V. 11 (Beth-Ezel)

V. 12 (Maroth)

V. 13 (Lachish)

V. 14 (Moresheth-Gath)

V. 14 (Aczib)

V. 15 (Mareshah)

V 15.

Putting all these wordplays and picture imagery together, what is the overall message? How does it make you feel?

3. What will be the end result of the Assyrian invasion? How should Judah respond? (v. 16)

13 Thinking & Living

“Unbelieving secular humans see no connection between their immoral behaviour and the cycles of depression, increasing crime, politicians instead of statesmen to guide them, ceaseless war, and venereal diseases. If they would ‘see’ God ruling earth’s affairs, and tremble before Him, they would have nothing to fear.” (Bruce Waltke)

1. How did Micah’s prophesies change how Israel and Judah needed to understand the Assyrian invasions?

2. There are multiple threads we can follow from Micah to Jesus, His Church and His future return, but for now, we will look at Revelation…

The Church: Revelation 2:12-17 The World: Physical plagues (Rev. 6:7- 8) and Demonic Plagues (Rev. 9:20-21) Where is Pergamum going astray? How does God reveal His judgment?

What danger are they in? Why is God sending warnings?

How should they respond? How should the world respond?

Rev. 12:11 – How should we live?

3. How does Micah help us understand… • Seasons of upheaval in the world and society • The danger of idolatry • The plight of humanity / Humanity’s greatest need • How we should feel about people who have not a) heard the Gospel and b) have rejected the Gospel? • Why at St. Peters we emphasize the need to witness, testify and share God’s Word with others?

14 Points to Pray… (now and during the week)

1. Pray for our Valley…

a) For awareness of the fact that “God rules” and so we need to heed His wrath revealed. The wages of sin (rebellion against/ ignoring God as King) remains death (Rom. 6:23).

b) Realization that our only hope is in Jesus in whom we are forgiven, counted righteous and justified. In Him we have the free gift of eternal life (Rom. 6:23)

c) That Churches would be confident in sharing the Gospel with our surrounding communities. That, like Paul, we would not be apathetic to the lost state of our neighbours (Rom. 9:2-3) and compelled by Christ’s love to share Jesus with them (Rom. 10:14-15)

2. Pray for Kids and St. Peters Stream

a) For the production, design and editing teams (strength, perseverance and encouragement as they tirelessly serve in this area)

b) That the resources made available would be used and shared by our church family

c) That people we share our “stream” with will respond positively

15 Idolatry

What is idolatry?

When we think of idolatry, we might be tempted to limit our understanding to physical images of gods and goddesses found in Hindu temples in India, the Shinto shrines of Japan or the Greco-Roman pantheon of Jesus’ day (Acts 17:16). Yet, the Bible’s definition of idolatry is much broader. For example, Jesus describes loving and living for money as serving a master rivalling God (Matt. 6:24). The Apostle Paul calls “greed” (and other sins) idolatry (Col. 3:5). Similarly, in Ephesians 5:5, Paul writes, “For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person – such a person is an idolater – has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God”. According to the prophets, idols are not external to us, but seated in our hearts (cf. Ezk. 14:3). They might not be physical images, but the elders of Israel have set their hearts on loving and devoting themselves to something more than God.

What we need to realize is that anything you set your heart on more than God is an idol. As Tim Keller put it, “It is anything more important to you than God, anything that absorbs your heart and imagination more than God, anything you seek to give you what only God can give. A counterfeit god is anything so central and essential to your life that, should you lose it, your life would feel hardly worth living. An idol has such a controlling position in your heart that you spend most of your passion and energy, your emotional and financial resources, on it without a second thought” (2009: xvii-xviii). Consequently, an idol can be anything.

John Calvin famously wrote, “the human heart is a perpetual idol factory” (Institutes, I:11:8). An idol is something we desire, devote ourselves to, trust in and seek as if it can give what only God can give. And what the heart devotes itself to, it often desires a physical expression: “In almost every age since the beginning of the world, men, ‘in order that they might obey this blind desire, have set up symbols in which they believed God appeared before their bodily eyes.’” (Institutes I:11:8).

What are the idols in your life?

In many ways, a key element of the Christian walk is to identify and uproot idols in our own lives (the things we have put in the place of God) and to truly begin to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength” (Deut. 6:5; Matt. 22:37). To be singularly devoted to one Master (Matt. 5:8; 6:19-24). Consequently, each of us needs to inspect our own “idol factory” (the heart) and be honest with ourselves. And you can inspect your own heart by asking yourself and honestly answering the following questions…

a) What do I love more than God? (What do I devote myself to, using most of my time, energy, wealth etc.)

b) What do I possibly trust more than God? (What do I put my confidence in for security, satisfaction, future hope etc.)

c) What do I obey rather than God? (What defines good and evil for me? What influences my decisions and principles etc.?)

16 And if you have discovered an idol in your life, confront it in the same way Jesus confronted the temptation of idolatry and the Apostle Paul wrote to the church in Ephesus: by the truth of the Gospel or God’s Word (Matt. 4:1ff; Eph. 6:10-18). The battle to uproot idols is a battle of false beliefs and affections. It is believing something about the idol that is not true and that only God in Christ can give you. It is listening to the serpent in Gen. 3:1-6 and not to the Word of God.

What if I ignore the idols in my life?

What if you don’t take them seriously or you don’t want to abandon your idols? What if you look at them and deem them “good… and pleasing to the eye, and also desirable” (Gen. 3:6)? There are two warnings to consider here… a) You become like the idols you serve

In Romans 1:18ff, Paul explains the impact of idolatry. Those who devote themselves to idols, eventually become like them. This is part of God’s judgment: to “hand us over” to what we want and so be transformed by our idols to become something we should have never been. In the Old Testament, another image is used to describe idols and the kingdoms that devote themselves to them. When we dedicate ourselves to “the beast” (the serpent and his lies), we become like “beasts”. Rather than the dignity of living as an image bearer of God (Gen. 1:26-27), Cain (for example) acts like a beast and murders his brother (Gen. 4:1ff). The Kingdoms of the world (in the throes of idolatry) are described as “beasts” that destroy and ruin God’s creation and people (cf. Dan. 7:1ff), an image carried over in John’s Revelation (Rev. 13:1ff). Idolatry robs us of our true identity and purpose. It defaces the beauty with which God has originally created us: being image- bearers of God. b) Obsession with your idols will destroy you

The warning remains: “you will certainly die” (Gen. 2:17). Whereas you expected the idol to pay certain wages (security, pleasure, satisfaction etc.), the only wages you will ultimately receive is death (Rom. 6:23). The judgments in Micah are honest pictures of what idolatry caused Israel. It is ironic, that King Ahaz devoted himself to Assyria and its idols (2 Kgs. 16:1), thinking that in Assyria and its gods, he would find security for his kingdom. Yet, it changed Judah’s leaders to become ferocious beasts devouring their own people (Micah 3:1-3). Assyria and its idols would ultimately lead to Judah’s destruction (Micah 3:12). Behind the wreckage we see in life are idols that promised something to their devotees (real life) they would ultimately never give.

So, realize, every day is filled with Genesis 2-3 like decisions. Will I believe God’s Word in Jesus, who claims to be the Vine (the tree of life) (Jn. 15) and in whom we will find eternal life (Jn. 3:16)? Or will I believe the serpent (the false tree) and dedicate myself to idols that promise what only Jesus can give?

For Further Reading: “Counterfeit Gods” by Timothy Keller

17 Sermon Notes for Micah 2:1-13 STUDY 3 Hope after Judgment

18 Micah 2:1-13 Hope after Judgment... STUDY 3 Greed is not a defect in the gold that is desired but in the man who loves it perversely by falling from justice which he ought to esteem as incom- parably superior to gold” (Augustine, City of God, 5th Century)

1. What connection, do you think, is there between greed, wealth and false teaching? Investigating

Read Micah 2:1-11… Ruthless Landlords and False Prophets

1. How does Micah describe the powerful/wealthy of his day? Why are their actions condemned? (vv. 1-2, 8-9)

2. What is God’s verdict on them? How does the sentence fit the crime? (vv. 3-5, 10)

3. How have the wealthy and their teachers/prophets responded to Micah’s message? (vv. 6, 11)

“They say to the seers, ‘See no more visions!’ and to the prophets, ‘Give us no more visions of what is right! Tell us pleasant things, prophesy illusions.’” (Isaiah 30:10)

Read Micah 2:12-13… Hope

Micah has already pronounced the destruction of Samaria and Judah in Micah 1:6-16 and God will use Assyria as His agent of judgment. We read about the Assyrian invasions in 1 Kings 16-19. The question is, will all Israel and Judah be swept away?

1. As Israel and Judah are scattered by the Assyrians, what will God do with the remnant that remain? (v. 12)

2. As Jerusalem is besieged, what will happen to the city? (v. 13)

19 Thinking & Living

Micah’s words found their first fulfilment in 701BC, when Assyria decimated Judah and laid siege to Jerusalem. The remnant was gathered to Jerusalem and it was there that God delivered His people under King Hezekiah (1 Kings 19:1ff). Today, as God’s remnant, gathered by the Good Shepherd (Jn 10), we will face the same opposition as Micah did (cf. John 15:18-16:4; Acts 4:1-21; 2 Tim. 3:16). We will also face the same temptations to compromise the Gospel to accommodate society…

1. What might the attitude of Micah 2:1-2 look like in your own thoughts or life?

2. What might the attitude of v6 & 11 look like in your own thoughts or life?

3. How has Micah helped you see…

• How God views injustice in society?

• The difference between a false and true messenger?

• What we can expect if we are true messengers of Jesus?

• What are the consequences for those who reject God’s message?

• What hope do we have if we hold onto the Gospel?

4. Jesus is the final Word of God (Heb. 1:1-3), yet like the prophets He was opposed by the religious teachers of the day. How does Jesus’ relationship with (and rebuke of!) Israel’s elite mirror the prophet Micah? (see table on next page)

20 What the How they Why they opposed Jesus’ verdict on them religious exploited Jesus… and those who follow teachers prided people like the them themselves in false teachers in Micah’s day

“And do not “They devour “‘No one can serve “When you see begin to say to widows’ houses two masters. Either Jerusalem being yourselves, ‘We and for a show you will hate the surrounded by armies, have make lengthy one and love the you will know that as our father.’ prayers. These other, or you will be its desolation is near. For I tell you men will be devoted to the one Then let those who are that out of these punished most and despise the in flee to the stones God can severely.” (Mk. other. You cannot mountains, let those in raise up children 12:40) serve both God and the city get out, and let for Abraham.” money.’ those in the country not (Lk. 3:8) The Pharisees, who enter the city. For this is loved money, heard the time of punishment all this and were in fulfilment of all that sneering at Jesus.” has been written.” (Lk. (Luke 16:13-14) 21:20-22)

Something to reflect on: Revelation 2-3

Jesus depicts His people (the church) as “lampstands”; which is linked to the symbols of the Old Testament Temple lampstand. This was a picture of God’s abiding presence and witness. In Revelation 2-3, Jesus focuses on various things that might rob the church of living out its identity as a lampstand in a world that will tempt them to compromise or oppose them in persecution. Read, list and meditate on the various things Jesus highlights here...

21 Points to Pray… (now and during the week)

In Revelation 2-3, we see in the 7 churches various areas God’s people have “lost” their ability to witness to the presence and power of Jesus…

1. Pray for our church family (all ages, ministries and leadership) …

a) To guard against false teaching

b) Not to lose our love and enthusiasm for Jesus as our King and Saviour

c) To compromise our faith or lose our zeal due to comfort or wealth

d) Not to be intimidated or buckle under societal pressure to preach and live a different message

2. The injustices described in Micah 2:1- 11 remain a sad reality today. Pray …

a) For those who have suffered historic or present injustice

b) For Government and the court of law to uphold true justice and not to buckle under societal pressure to be unjust

c) For Christians to be a prophetic voice against injustice and not to remain silent

d) That people would find their ultimate hope for justice in Jesus and His Kingdom (Matt. 6:9- 10) and not resort to evil (Rom. 12:17-21)

3. Pray for Fellowship Groups and their Leaders. Specifically, for wisdom and encouragement as we navigate this uncertain time and rapid changes. That our heart’s desire would be to gather (Heb. 10:24-25)

22 Sermon Notes for Micah 3:1-12 Leaders Listen!

23 Micah 3:1-12 Leaders Listen! STUDY 4

1. Can you think of any contemporary examples of positions of power and privilege being abused? Discuss…

Investigating

Read Micah 3:1-12… In chapter 2, Micah focused on the landowners who were robbing the people of their allotted land. In chapter 3, Micah looks at the magistrates (officials or heads) and prophets/teachers who support them…

Vv. 1-4: Vv. 5-8: Vv. 9-12: Magistrates (M) Prophets (P) Both (M & P)

How are they described? (motives, actions, result of their practices)

How will God respond? (How does God’s response mirror their actions?)

How is Micah (a true prophet) different? (v. 8)

24 Leaders Listen!

Thinking & Living

Like the prophet Micah, Jesus came into the world to reverse the status quo by exalting the humble and humbling the proud (Lk. 1:52-53). Jesus, like John the Baptist, proclaimed mercy and grace to the broken, while strongly challenging the proud and powerful. Yet, like many prophets before them, it cost both of them their lives (cf. Lk. 13:33-34; Matt. 14:1-12; 27:26, 35). Similarly, the early church suffered for its witness (Acts 4:19-20; 7:1-8:1; 1 Thess. 2:2-6). The church, being filled with the same Spirit, is the continuation of the prophetic witness of Micah, Jesus and the Apostles...

1. According to Jesus, what is the correct use of power? How did He lead by example? (Matt. 20:24-28)

2. Everyone has a position of “power” in some way (parent, teacher, employer, leader of something etc.) ...

• In what ways are you in a position of power? What would it look like for you to use your position for the good of others? (cf. Matt. 7:12)

• Power can be used for the sake of others or to abuse others. What wrong views of power can you discern in your own life?

3. How do you think, we as a church family, can guard against the abuse of power? (cf. James 2:1-7; 1 Pet. 5:1-6)

4. Do you know anyone who is passionate about social justice and equality, but they haven’t realised that God is too? How could this passage help you engage with them in a positive conversation about ?

5. Micah and the prophets faced tremendous resistance for speaking out against injustice. The temptation would be to remain silent. Yet, what would happen if Christians remain silent about the injustices or moral decay we see in society?

6. Read the lyrics of Amazing Grace and the mini biography of John Newton. How did his own realization of God’s grace transform his witness?

25 Amazing Grace

Amazing grace! how sweet the sound, That saved a wretch; like me! I once was lost, but now am found, Was blind, but now I see. ’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear, And grace my fears relieved; How precious did that grace appear The hour I first believed! The Lord hath promised good to me, His word my hope secures; He will my shield and portion be As long as life endures. When we’ve been there ten thousand years, Bright shining as the sun, We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise Than when we first begun.

John Newton (1725-1807)

As a child, John Newton’s Christian mother taught him the Bible. At age 7, Newton’s mother died of tuberculosis. Raised by his father (a sailor), Newton had his first sea-voyage at age 11 and so began his sailing career. Due to “unsettled behaviour and impatience of restraint”, Newton struggled to maintain a steady career (as a merchant and later as a navy sailor) and was later discharged to work on a slave ship bound for West Africa (Sierra Leone).

In 1747, Newton served on the ship “Greyhound” that was sailing from West-Africa to England. It was during this time, Newton started reading the book “The Imitation of Christ” by Thomas a Kempis. Although moved by what he was reading, he continued to serve as a mate and later as captain of a number of slave ships. In 1755, Newton left the sea and lived in Liverpool. It was in this time he became influenced by the Wesleys and George Whitefield. It was during this time that Newton’s life was transformed by the Gospel; as a result, he left the slave trade entirely.

In 1764, Newton was ordained as an Anglican minister and served in Olney. Three years later, William Cowper (a poet) moved to Olney. In 1769 Newton started to write hymns (which he used in his prayer meetings) and challenged William Cowper to join him in writing hymns. At Olney, Newton composed approximately 280 hymns (Amazing Grace being one of them) and Cowper 68. It was during this time that Newton began to deeply regret his involvement in the slave trade. He would later move to become a rector in London in 1779.

It was here that he started to mentor a young MP called William Wilberforce, encouraging him to remain in politics and serve God in parliament. In 1787, Newton wrote a tract in support of Wilberforce’s campaign to abolish the slave trade, graphically describing the horrors of the industry. Newton was an ardent supporter of the campaign, rejoicing when slavery was abolished in 1807.

26 In the light of Micah 3:1-12…

1. Pray that God’s grace would transform each of us individually and as a community…

a) To be unconditional in our love for people (irrespective of class, race, struggles or background)

b) We would not show preference to any particular “class” of people

c) Stand up for those who are silenced by society (in particular the poor)

2. Pray for parents as they disciple their children in the principles of the Gospel that we have just learned…

a) Not to make friends based on income, class, race or background

b) Befriend and stand up for the “outcast” or “bullied” at school

c) Be, in general, the transformative “salt” and “light” among our friends and family

3. Pray for Missions Partners as they witness in areas with their own set of challenges and problems (as revealed in Micah)

4. Pray for Ubabalo neThemba School and iThemba School that seek to be “salt” and “light” in a community that has suffered social and personal injustice

27 The Prophetic Voice

In the Old Testament, God instituted government (the judges and kings) to administer justice and to rule His people (cf. Deut. 1:16; 16:18;17:14ff). Israel had to adhere to the order God put in place. In a similar way, Christians are called to obey civil authority as being instituted by God (Rom. 13:1-7; 1 Pet. 2:17). Yet, this does not imply blind obedience or silence when there is injustice.

• The Prophets and the Kings

In 1 Samuel, the prophet Samuel confronted King Saul due to his disobedience to God’s command (1 Samuel 13:1ff; 15:1ff). In 2 Samuel, the prophet Nathan confronted King David for his adultery and murder of Uriah (2 Samuel 12:1ff). In 1 & 2 Kings we have the prophets Elijah and Elisha who confronted the wicked kings of their day and spoke out against the injustices perpetrated by their governments (like the murder of Naboth: 1 Kings 21:1ff).

It was the prophets (like Micah) who constantly reminded the kings that God is the true King of Israel and that they should submit to His Law. If the king and his government stepped out of line with God’s Law, the prophet was sent to witness against them. God’s Word is supreme, not the king.

• The Exiles and the Empires

When in exile, Daniel and his three friends acted in a similar way to the prophets during the time of the kings. Although they humbly and diligently served King Nebuchadnezzar, they peacefully resisted where the king legislated something that was not in line with God’s Word. For example, Daniel refused to defile himself by eating “unclean” food (Daniel 1:8ff). Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused to bow down to the golden image and worship it (Daniel. 3:1ff). Daniel refused to worship king Darius (Daniel 6:1ff). They were also not afraid to proclaim God’s Word to king Nebuchadnezzar and his son Belshazzar; even if it was costly to them.

The call remains the same for us as well. Like John the Baptist witnessed against King Herod (Matt. 14:1-12) and Paul witnessed before Felix, Festus and King Agrippa (Acts 24-26), we are called to be a witness about King Jesus and His Kingdom to all nations (Matt. 28:18-20; Rev. 12:11). To governments as well, even when they act like beasts (like the empires of Daniel’s day and Rome in John’s day). The church is God’s prophetic voice to the world (the salt and light; Matt. 5:13-16). So, let us not be afraid to call out injustice, demonstrate a life of righteousness and point people to the only King worth living for: Jesus.

28 Sermon Notes for Micah 4:1-13 Hope for Jerusalem

29 Micah 4:1-13 Hope for Jerusalem STUDY 5

1. The New Testament often describes us as living in “the last days” (Acts 2:17; 2 Tim. 3:1; Heb. 1:2; James 5:3; 2 Pet. 3:3). What are these last days and what is it like living in them?

Investigating

In Micah 3:1-12, God has declared that He will utterly destroy the old Jerusalem and its corrupt leaders and teachers who have indulged in evil and led Judah astray. In Micah 4:1ff, God gives His people a starkly different future vision of Jerusalem under His Kingship…

Read Micah 4:1-5… “In the last days…”

1. What is the future hope God’s people should have for the Temple, Jerusalem and the Kingdom of God (vv. 1-4? Describe what you see…

Vv. 1-2a Vv. 2b-4

Remember: Israel’s kings led the people to follow the practices of the surrounding nations to worship idols on the mountains (1 Kgs. 22:43; 2 Kgs. 12:3; 18:4). God selected Mt. Zion as the place of His earthly throne and presence (the Temple). The Temple’s interior depicted the Garden of Eden (cf. 1 Kings 6-7) from which rivers of life would flow (Ps. 46:4; Ezk. 47) and the Law that was to be taught there would transform someone to be like a tree of life (Ps. 1).

The “vine… and fig tree” is a picture of the golden age of Solomon (1 Kgs. 4:25) when God’s people experienced peace and the blessings of the covenant (Lev. 25:19; 26:4). It is also a picture of a “fruitful” life in obedience to God (Psalm 1).

1. Given this future hope, how does Micah call God’s people to respond? (v. 5)

30 Hope for Jerusalem

Read Micah 4:6-8… “In that day…”

Israel will suffer exile (Micah 1:16). Their strongholds will be destroyed (Micah 1:6; 3:12) and their current leaders shattered…

1. What future hope should God’s people, who will go into exile, have? (Compare with Micah 2:12-13)

Read Micah 4:11-13… “Now… Now…”

Keep in mind that Micah 4:11-13 is not linear. Vv. 9-10 looks at Babylon’s rule in the future (586 BC), while vv. 11-13 is part of a series of oracles looking at the present rule of Assyria (701 BC).

1. When Babylon comes to invade Judah (115 years after Micah has prophesied), what will happen to Judah and Jerusalem? (vv. 9-10)

• The teachers of the day taught that Zion will never fall (Micah 3:11). How does Micah’s prophecy differ?

2. When Assyria (5:5) comes to invade Judah and Jerusalem, what will happen to Judah and Jerusalem? (vv. 11-13)

• Assyria and its vassal states have assembled to destroy Jerusalem, yet what is God intending to do with their evil plan?

31 Thinking & Living

John’s Gospel draws from the rich symbols and imagery of the Old Testament and applies them to Jesus. In particular, imagery of the Garden, Temple, Mount Zion and the Law (tree, fruit, light, life, water etc.) …

1. How has Jesus fulfilled the prophetic hope we see in Micah? (see table)

The Temple (River of Life) Jesus is described as the Tabernacle (Jn. 1:14) and (Micah 4:1-2) Temple (Jn. 2:18-22). In the conversation with the Samaritan woman, Jesus says, “whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life… believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem… Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth…” (Jn. 4:13-24; cf. Jn. 7:37-38)

The Law and Tree of Life “I am the true vine… Remain in me, as I also remain (Garden) (Micah 4:1-4) in you… Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me… Now remain in my love. If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love” (Jn. 15:1-10)

“I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (Jn. 14:6)

Exaltation of Mount Zion “I am the good shepherd” (John 10:1ff) and its King “Now is the time for judgment on this world; now The Gathering of the the prince of this world will be driven out. And I, Exiles when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” (Jn. 12:31-32)

The Defeat of God’s “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son, that enemies (Micah 4:6-13) your Son may glorify you. For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those you have given him.” (Jn. 17:1-2)

32 2. The Law/Word will go out from Jerusalem/Zion to the ends of the earth (Micah 4:2). Jesus has entrusted this to His people who have drawn near to Him (Matt. 28:18-20; Jn. 17:20-26).

• How have we seen the nations flow to the exalted Jesus over the last 2000 years? What impact has His message made on those who have heard and believed Him?

Although we have progressively seen the fulfilment of Micah’s vision in Jesus’ first coming and now in His present work in the church, we have not yet seen the final consummation of the vision (as revealed in Revelation 19-22). Many nations still worship their gods (Micah 1:5) and walk in the darkness of the prince of this world (as John writes). We still live in a world of swords and spears. So, going back to the intro discussion question…

3. How are you experiencing the “last days” tension between having come to Mount Zion (Heb 12) …and yet still having to live in a fallen world?

4. How can we live out the vision of witness, peace, generosity and contentment that we see in Micah 4:2-4, during these last days?

5. In these last days how are we called to do battle? (Eph. 6:10-122 Cor. 10:1-5; Rev. 12:11)

6. How does the following hymn reflect? (see next page)

33 Soldiers of Christ, arise, and put your armor on, strong in the strength which God supplies thro' his eternal Son. Strong in the Lord of hosts, and in his mighty pow'r, who in the strength of Jesus trusts is more than conqueror. Stand then in his great might, with all his strength endued; but take, to arm you for the fight, the panoply of God. Leave no unguarded place, no weakness of the soul; take ev'ry virtue, ev'ry grace, and fortify the whole. To keep your armor bright, attend with constant care; still walking in your Captain's sight, and watching unto prayer. From strength to strength go on; wrestle and fight and pray; tread all the pow'rs of darkness down, and win the well-fought day

Charles Wesley – 1707-1788)

Charles Wesley (1707-1788) was a prolific hymn writer. He wrote approximately 8989 hymns (10 times the volume composed than the next most prolific English hymn writer: Isaac Watts). It should be noted that prior to the evangelistic campaigns of the Wesleys and Whitefield, England was in a state of moral decay and many social injustices (for example, during this time 97% of those born in the workhouses died as children). With his brother John Wesley and friend, George Whitefield, Charles endeavored to evangelize England for King Jesus. To give an idea, between 1739-1743, Charles Wesley alone preached to a total of 149 400 people. As more people started to believe and follow Jesus (in Britain and North America), societal change started taking place. Universities like Princeton were formed. Hospitals and schools increased. Prisons were reformed. Relief agencies for the poor were created. The Abolition of Slavery movement began, culminating in the work of William Wilberforce. Global mission expanded. In many ways, as historians write, the movement “saved England from horrors similar to those which overtook France in the last decade of the eighteenth century” (Harding 1946:274, “The Social Impact of the Evangelical Revival”). The Gospel of Jesus, when preached, believed and followed, transforms societies.

34 Points to Pray… (now and during the week)

1. Praise God that His Gospel has spread from Jerusalem to us at the tip of Africa! We are seeing this prophecy being fulfilled!

2. Praise God for missionaries, evangelists and Christians in day to day life who have shared this wonderful message at home and abroad. The only reason we believe and are transformed, is that someone took the time to share this wonderful message with us. Praise God for those people.

3. Pray for our church family, that each of us will clearly see our role in this great mission and be a witness to God’s rule, unity and peace…

a) Where we work (online or in person)

b) At home among family and friends (online or in person)

c) In our day to day interactions with others (online or in person)

d) In our church gatherings (when we finally meet again)

4. Pray for South Africa. That churches in our country would tirelessly continue to witness the message of peace in Jesus and that the Gospel would become the glue that binds us together and reconciles us to one another.

35 Sermon Notes for Micah 5:1-15 STUDY 6

36 Micah 5:1-15 The Messiah and His People STUDY 6

1. When you hear the word “Messiah”, what do you think?

Investigating

Read Micah 5:1-6… The Messiah

Keep in mind that during the time of King Hezekiah, King Sennacherib of Assyria decimated Judea and laid siege to Jerusalem. At this point, King Hezekiah’s reign reached only as far as the walls of Jerusalem (Micah 5:1). Yet, in vv. 2-6, Micah describes Israel’s hope of the Messiah…

1. How does Micah describe the coming Messiah?

Where will he be born? (v. 2)

What will end when he is born? (v. 3)

How will he rule? (v. 4)

Who will he defeat? Should we read vv. 5-6 literally? What do Assyria (vv. 4-6) and Nimrod represent in the Bible?

37 Thinking & Living

1. If Jesus is the fulfilment of this Messianic promise, what have you learnt about him from theses verses in Micah?

2. Look at these New Testament passages (table below) which specifically point to Jesus fulfilling these prophecies…

Matthew’s Gospel makes clear that Jesus was born in Bethlehem (Matt. 2:1) and that His birth marked the end of the exile (Matt. 1:1-17). He is the Messiah we have been waiting for, who faced the true enemy of God’s people (Satan: Matt. 4:1ff); humbly died on the Cross in obedience to His Father and was resurrected in power (Defeating sin and death). Looking at Ephesians…

Where is the Messiah Look at Eph. 1:9-10 (cf. 1:20-22) ruling and over whom?

How has the Messiah Look at Eph. 2:13-18 made “peace” among nations?

38 Read Micah 5:7-15… The People of the Messiah

1. When the Messiah comes, what will happen to the remnant that is currently…

In Micah’s Day But when the Messiah comes, they will become…

Few V. 7

Defeated Vv. 8-9

Idolatrous Vv. 10-15

Read Micah 5:7-15… The People of the Messiah

2. Jesus is often portrayed as just another religious teacher / leader / founder. How can Micah shape our understanding of what Jesus is like and what he came to do? Pick out some key verses.

3. Churches today often feel weak, oppressed and defeated. How does Micah help us understand God’s plan for his church? Pick out some key verses.

4. Churches today are often casual about idolatry. How does Micah remind us about purity and God’s desire to make us pure? Pick out some key verses.

39 Points to Pray… (now and during the week)

1. Praise God that the Messiah has come and that His rule of peace is extending to the ends of the earth.

2. Pray for our missions partners who are ministering in cross- cultural mission; that as they witness, that more people would come under the peace of the Messiah.

3. Pray for our local endeavours to share the Gospel of the Messiah…

a) That God would use St. Peters Stream to reach more people with the Gospel

b) That through our various ministries and personal witness we would be a blessing to our community (like dew and rain)

c) That we would visibly demonstrate the unity and peace of the Messiah through our partnerships in Masiphumalele, Sunday and Youth gatherings

40 Sermon Notes for Micah 6:1-7:7 What does God require?

41 Micah 6:1-7:7 What does God require? STUDY 7

In 2020 we have been made aware of the various injustices taking place around us (#blacklivesmatter, the suffering of the poor due to COVID-19, the abuse of power and general lack of love for one’s neighbour)…

1. How do you think God feels about it? How do you think we should respond?

Investigating

In this study, we begin the third ‘judgment/hope’ cycle in Micah. God’s people have once more returned to their morally corrupt ways under King Manasseh (2 Kings 21; 2 Chron. 33) and we will be confronted with a nation which, despite God’s generosity and simple requirements, refuses to meet them. Instead, they offer to appease God through enormous and absurd gifts, gifts which He did not require of them!

Read Micah 6:1-8…

1. What type of setting is introduced in vv. 1-2?

2. What question does the LORD ask himself in v. 3? What do you think has caused him to ask this question?

3. Which events does the LORD consider in vv. 4 and 5? Considering His question in v. 3, what rhetorical point is He making by doing this?

4. What does Israel offer in verses 6-7? Will these offers satisfy God?

5. According to verse 8, what does God require of his people?

42 What does God require?

Read Micah 6:9-7:7…

1. Look at vv. 9-16…

List some the things Israel is guilty of… How will God respond?

2. 2. Look at Micah 7:1-7…

List some of the things Micah is But how will Micah respond? lamenting…

43 Thinking & Living

1. Our contemporary society also tries to appease God through religion. When faced with your own guilt, do you try to pay God back with religious performance?

2. Take a closer look at 6:8…

• In what ways did Jesus meet these requirements in his life, and in his death? Consider 1 Peter 2:21-24

“For you were called to this, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. He did not commit sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth; when he was insulted, he did not insult in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten but entrusted himself to the one who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree; so that, having died to sins, we might live for righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” (1 Peter 2:21-24)

• Where does the New Testament call for a similar lifestyle from God’s people? (cf. Matt. 9:9-15; 23:23-24)

3. Look through your list on Micah 6:9-16. Are God’s people ever guilty of these things today? Are you guilty of any of these things?

4. As you read this passage, are you convicted of any ways in which you have been guilty of injustice? Think, especially of…

• your commercial dealings with others

• your treatment of those who are in positions of weakness

• your apathy in confronting injustice in society

5. What should you do in response?

6. As you read this passage, are you reminded of any ways in which you have been a victim of injustice? How does this passage give you hope?

7. Reflect on the hymn which focuses on God’s mercy and grace to you in Jesus. How do you think God’s grace to you would transform how you relate to others?

44 Nothing but the Blood

1 What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Refrain: O precious is the flow that makes me white as snow; no other fount I know; nothing but the blood of Jesus.

2 For my pardon this I see: nothing but the blood of Jesus. For my cleansing this my plea: nothing but the blood of Jesus.

3 Nothing can for sin atone: nothing but the blood of Jesus. Naught of good that I have done: nothing but the blood of Jesus.

4 This is all my hope and peace: nothing but the blood of Jesus. This is all my righteousness: nothing but the blood of Jesus.

‘Nothing but the Blood of Jesus’ was written by Robert Lowry. Lowry was an American professor of literature and a minister in the mid-1800s in the USA. The song has a call/response structure, similar to the structure of the would-be worshipper in Micah 6:6-7. However, in contrast to the would-be worshipper, the hymn places its trust in ‘the blood of Jesus’ rather than enormous sacrifices and displays of devotion. The Hymn has been modernised by many contemporary Christian artists, including Dustin Kensrue, Matt Redman, and Casting Crowns.

45 Points to Pray… (now and during the week)

Reflect on Micah 6:1-7:7. Pray that the vision we see in this passage would reflect in the following areas. Pray especially for Christians working and witnessing in these areas; that their ethic and words would make an impact in the following areas where they (or we) serve…

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8)

1. Our Parliament

2. Our local provincial governments

3. Our municipality

4. Our businesses (whether we are self-employed, an employer or employee)

5. Our schools’ governing bodies

6. Our church family

7. Our homes

Continue to pray for one another that even though we might live in a society or situation that does not reflect the words of Micah, that we still remain hopeful in our present circumstances of God’s salvation. (Micah 7:7)

46 Sermon Notes for Micah 7:8-20 Who is a God like you?

47 Micah 7:8-20 Who is a God like you? STUDY 8

1. Have you ever heard someone say: “I believe in a God of love, not judgement”? What do you think of that statement?

Investigating

The text of Micah 7:8-20 can be read like a play as there are three different characters which contribute to the dialogue. They are as follows:

TEXT SPEAKER

vv.8-10 Zion

vv.11-14 Micah

v. 15 I AM/Yahweh

vv. 16-17 Micah

vv.18-20 Zion and Micah

Read vv. 8-13

1. Who is Zion’s enemy (v. 10)?

2. List the things which Zion is anticipating (vv. 8-13)

Read vv. 14-17.

3. What does Micah ask I AM to do (v.14)?

4. How does I AM promise to respond (vv. 15-17)?

5. What enemy does v. 17 remind you of? What does it mean that the nations will receive the same punishment as that enemy?

6. How is God described in vv. 18-20? (cf. Ex. 34:6-9)

7. How does the imagery make the description more vivid?

48 Who is a God like you? Thinking & Living

1. How does the theme of salvation to God’s people in the same day as the defeat of God’s people’s enemies translate into the New Testament? (cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:5-12)

2. What role does Jesus play in this event that is being anticipated by Micah 7:8-17? (cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:7)

3. How does this passage shape your response to the intro question?

4. The idea portrayed in v. 12 is that of exiles returning to their homeland and city. How does this image relate to the Church? See 1 Peter 1:1, 17; 2:11-12.

5. How do God’s people respond to the anticipation of this event (Micah 7:14,18-20; 1 Peter 1:13-17)? How do you respond to it and what are your reasons for that response?

6. Read through vv. 18-20 again. In the light of Jesus’ work on the cross:

• What is your status before God?

• What has happened to your sins?

• How can you know this for sure?!

7. When people around us panic at the thought of the end of the world (a very real struggle during the COVID 19 pandemic), how should we respond to them as we take this passage into account?

8. Why can we praise I AM, in our personal and corporate circles, like the hymn in vv. 18-20? How do we do this?

49 “Though great our sins and sore our wounds And deep and dark our fall, His helping mercy hath no bounds, His love surpasseth all. Our trusty loving Shepherd he, Who shall at last set Israel free from all their sin and sorrow.”

(Martin Luther – 16th Century)

50