Micah 4

1. But in the last (latter) days, etc. See notes on Isa. ii. 1-4. These lines were perhaps derived both by Isaiah and Micah from a prophecy of an earlier date, which Micah quotes the more largely (see 4). Otherwise, Micah’s is most probably the original.

the law shall go forth, etc. The light of truth from Christ’s teaching diffused from this centre through the whole world.

4 under his vine and under his fig tree. See 1 Kings iv. 25.

5 we will walk in the name of the Lord. To “walk in His name,” means to act as one who reverences and trusts Him because of His character and word. The honour and confidence which “all the peoples” give to their idols we (says the prophet) will yield to the Eternal alone, in whom we shall never be disappointed.

6. In that day. i.e. (ver. 1), in the “latter day,” the day of the Messiah.

7. I will make her that halted, etc. I will not destroy her that was feeble, but will save a “remnant,” and make it the germ of “a strong nation.”

8. O tower of the flock. This appears to be the fortress of Zion; from which the kings of Judah, as “shepherds” of the people, watched and succoured their flock. Such was to be the work of the Good Shepherd (St. John x. 11).

the first dominion. Rather, as R.V., “the former dominion,” of the glorious days of David and Solomon; whose prosperous reigns represent that of Messiah: see note on Isa. ix. 1. Read, “The former dominion shall come, the kingdom of the daughter of Jerusalem.”

9 as a woman in travail. This figure, with a similar application, occurs in John xvi. 20, 21.

10 to Babylon. The prophet seems here suddenly to overleap more than a hundred years to that which would be the end and climax of all present disasters. But it is evident that the verse has also a wider and more distant application in the sufferings and final deliverance of the Church of God.

11 defiled. Or, “profaned.”

look. Or, “see its desire.”

13. Arise, and thresh. See Isa. xxviii. 28; xli. 15.

I will make thine horn iron, etc. The figure of an ox threshing corn is followed by a further description of the power which God will give to His people, in order that all which they thus acquire may be consecrated to Him.

I will consecrate, etc. Rather, according to the most approved reading, “Thou shalt consecrate,” etc.