1 Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.
2 And they covet fields, and take them by violence; and houses, and take them away: so they oppress a man and his house, even a man and his heritage.
3 Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, against this family do I devise an evil, from which ye shall not remove your necks; neither shall ye go haughtily: for this time is evil.
4 In that day shall one take up a parable against you, and lament with a doleful lamentation, and say, We be utterly spoiled: he hath changed the portion of my people: how hath he removed it from me! turning away he hath divided our fields.
5 Therefore thou shalt have none that shall cast a cord by lot in the congregation of the LORD.
6 Prophesy ye not, say they to them that prophesy: they shall not prophesy to them, that they shall not take shame.
7 O thou that art named the house of Jacob, is the spirit of the LORD straitened? are these his doings? do not my words do good to him that walketh uprightly?
8 Even of late my people is risen up as an enemy: ye pull off the robe with the garment from them that pass by securely as men averse from war.
9 The women of my people have ye cast out from their pleasant houses; from their children have ye taken away my glory for ever.
10 Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction.
11 If a man walking in the spirit and falsehood do lie, saying, I will prophesy unto thee of wine and of strong drink; he shall even be the prophet of this people.
12 I will surely assemble, O Jacob, all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as the flock in the midst of their fold: they shall make great noise by reason of the multitude of men.
13 The breaker is come up before them: they have broken up, and have passed through the gate, and are gone out by it: and their king shall pass before them, and the LORD on the head of them.
The second chapter of the book of Micah is a powerful and profound piece of scripture, filled with rich themes and teachings that resonate even in contemporary times. In essence, this chapter is a prophecy against those who plot evil, oppress the poor, and covet lands and houses that are not rightfully theirs. This chapter embodies the themes of social justice, divine judgment, and ultimately, God's compassion and promise of restoration.
At the onset, Micah chapter 2 opens with a strong indictment against those who devise iniquity and work evil upon their beds. These people, driven by their greed and selfish desires, seize properties and oppress individuals who are powerless to resist. They covet fields, take them by violence, and appropriate houses along with their inhabitants. Micah, as God's prophet, exposes these transgressions and warns of impending divine judgment.
One of the most prominent themes in Micah 2 is social justice. The prophet Micah, deeply disturbed by the prevailing social injustices of his time, passionately speaks out against the wealthy and powerful who exploit and oppress the poor and vulnerable. He condemns those who "covet fields, and take them by violence; and houses, and take them away: so they oppress a man and his house, even a man and his heritage" (Micah 2:2, KJV). This verse vividly illustrates the rampant greed, corruption, and disregard for the rights and dignity of others.
Micah's plea for social justice is not merely a call for fair treatment of individuals but also a demand for systemic changes in societal structures that perpetuate inequality and injustice. His words serve as a reminder that God cares deeply about social justice and expects His followers to do the same.
Another significant theme in this chapter is divine judgment. Micah warns the oppressors that their actions have not gone unnoticed by God. He pronounces God's judgment upon them, saying, "Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, against this family do I devise an evil, from which ye shall not remove your necks; neither shall ye go haughtily: for this time is evil" (Micah 2:3, KJV).
This prophetic declaration of divine judgment underscores the biblical principle that God is a God of justice who will not allow the wicked to go unpunished. It serves as a stern warning to all who oppress others and exploit the poor, reminding them of the dire consequences of their actions.
Despite the harsh judgment pronounced against the oppressors, Micah 2 also presents a hopeful message of God's compassion and promise of restoration. Towards the end of the chapter, Micah prophesies that God will gather His people and lead them out of their affliction. He says, "I will surely assemble, O Jacob, all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as the flock in the midst of their fold: they shall make great noise by reason of the multitude of men" (Micah 2:12, KJV).
This prophecy assures us that despite the trials and tribulations we may face, God's compassion and mercy are never far away. His promise of restoration offers hope and comfort to those who have been wronged and oppressed. It also serves as a reminder that God is faithful to His promises and will ultimately bring redemption and restoration to His people.
In conclusion, the second chapter of the book of Micah is a powerful discourse that addresses social injustice, divine judgment, and God's compassion and promise of restoration. It is a timeless message that remains relevant in today's world, reminding us of God's concern for social justice, His judgment against oppressors, and His enduring compassion and faithfulness towards His people. As we reflect on this chapter, let us be challenged to stand against injustice, trust in God's judgment, and hold fast to His promises of restoration.
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