The Thinker Micah 5:2 But you, Bethlehem Ephratah, though you be little among the thousands of Judah… The Jews regarded this text as a prophecy of Messiah's birthplace. Micah, though a prophet of Divine wrath, is also a prophet of Divine promise. Next to Isaiah, he is richest in Messianic prediction. I. CONCERNING BETHLEHEM. Micah is noted for his "rapid transitions" from one topic to another — from threats to promises. The prophet addresses the village by both its names, Bethlehem Ephratah. The patriarchal name Ephratah means "fruitfulness." It was one of the most fertile parts of Palestine, and its natural fruitfulness was a prophecy of its spiritual fruitfulness. Bethlehem means the "house of bread," and points to its specific form of fertility, its rich corn land. The prophet marks with wonder its insignificance. It was too remote ever to become a place of importance. II. CONCERNING CHRIST. We cannot select our birthplace and circumstances, but Christ could. The Saviour came to teach humility, and to reverse the maxims of the world. Bethlehem was the city of David, and Christ was to be of the seed of David. We have also the description of Christ's office. "Ruler in Israel." He came to found a kingdom. The description of Christ's person, the eternity of God the Son, is also contained in the text. III. LESSONS. 1. We are taught the grace of lowliness. 2. The name "house of bread" reminds us of the great Sacrament. 3. The prophetic description helps us to realise the two natures in one Divine Person. 4. Obedience to our King is the way to reach up to the higher mystery of His timeless generation (John 7:17). (The Thinker.) Parallel Verses KJV: But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting. |
    |