| Series | The character of God: The God who comes |
|---|---|
| Theme | 1. The hope of Israel - 1. O LE FAAMOEMOE O ISARAELU |
| Colour | Lanu Meamata |
Scripture Focus: Mika 5:2-4
But thou, Beth–lehem 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. Therefore will he give them up, until the time that she which travaileth hath brought forth: then the remnant of his brethren shall return unto the children of Israel. And he shall stand and feed in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God; and they shall abide: for now shall he be great unto the ends of the earth.
- Micah 5:2-4 (KJV)
Study:
Micah 5:2-4 highlights the significance of Bethlehem Ephratah, a small clan within the tribe of Judah, as the prophesied birthplace of Israel’s future ruler and shepherd. Despite its humble size and status "among the thousands of Judah," Bethlehem is chosen by God as the origin of the Messiah, underscoring God's sovereign choice and purpose. The passage emphasizes that this ruler’s origins are from ancient times — "from everlasting" — indicating the eternal nature of Christ. He will shepherd and protect His people with the power and majesty of God, ensuring the security and restoration of Israel. God's plan involves patience — waiting until the right time, symbolized by the birth pains of the one who is to come, before the remnant of His brethren returns and renewal takes place.
Application:
Today, this Scripture reminds believers that greatness in God’s kingdom is not measured by status or size but by His divine purpose and calling. Just as Bethlehem was small and seemingly insignificant yet chosen to bring forth the Savior, each believer—regardless of their background or stature—has a significant role in God’s plan. We are called to trust in God's timing and guidance, knowing that He works through the humble and the unlikely. As Christ, the eternal shepherd, leads and sustains His people, we too are invited to find strength and security in His care amidst life’s challenges.
Reflection Questions:
- How does knowing that Jesus came from a small clan like Bethlehem affect your understanding of God's plans for humble beginnings?
- In what ways do you see God working through seemingly small or insignificant circumstances in your life?
- How can you trust God more fully with His timing and purpose in your personal journey?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus is the eternal shepherd who feeds and protects His flock?
Prayer:
Lord God, thank You for Your sovereign plan that chooses the humble and the small for great purposes. Help us to trust Your timing, rely on Your strength, and follow You as our eternal Shepherd. May we find our hope in You alone and live boldly in the calling You have given us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Tags: Micah 5, Bethlehem, Messiah prophecy, hope of Israel, God’s sovereignty, Jesus the shepherd, Christian hope, Biblical prophecy, Bible study, trust God’s timing