The word of the people

We are continuing in the study of “the courtroom of the Lord.” Unlike the first five chapters, chapters 6-7 are written in dialog form, so it is important to understand who is speaking. Verses 6-7 are the words spoken by the people of Israel. (1) After hearing the Lord’s words of accusation (v 3-5), the people of Israel finally recognize their sin and confess it. However, their recognition of sin is extremely superficial and insufficient. This becomes evident from their own words. (2) They ask themselves, “With what shall I come to the Lord and bow myself before the God on high?” This is a statement that recognizes sin, but what is in their minds is only outward acts. (3) They list the possible sacrifices they might offer to the Lord: “burnt offerings,” “yearling calves,” “thousands of rams,” and “ten thousand rivers of oil.” (4) Finally, they even say, “Shall I give Him my firstborn for my wrongdoings, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?” Perhaps they had Abraham, who offered Isaac, in mind. The people of Israel had completely misunderstood God’s righteousness. Sacrifices were required by the Law of Moses and were not evil in themselves. However, no matter how many sacrifices were offered, if there were no inward repentance and righteousness, they would not be pleasing to God. What God accepts is inward righteousness plus outward action.

The word of the prophet Micah

In verse 8, the prophet Micah speaks on behalf of the Lord. This is an extremely important verse in the Book of Micah, so let’s read it aloud. “He has told you, mortal one, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” (1) “To do justice” means to carry out the Law of Moses and to do so with the right motive. Outward actions without faith and repentance are not acceptable to God. Psalm 50 and Isaiah 1:10-17 teach this truth. (2) “To love kindness” means to practice love toward one’s neighbor. If a person walks according to the Law, that person will naturally practice love for others. (3) “To walk humbly with your God” means to enjoy daily fellowship with God. The teaching of Micah 6:8 calls to mind Matthew 22:37-40: “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ Upon these two commandments hang the whole Law and the Prophets.” The teaching of the entire Bible is summarized in these two loves.