Micah 5:8. Lion] To take vengeance on her enemies (Isaiah 66:15-16; Zechariah 12:3-6; Zechariah 14:17-18); and strike terror into all opponents. A prediction of victory under the Maccabees and after-times.
Micah 5:9.] Exultant feeling; High be thy hand (Isaiah 26:11) to destroy the foe (Exodus 13:9).
ISRAEL AS A LION.—Micah 5:8-9
God and his people have not only a benignant but a terrible aspect towards men,—as dew to the well-disposed, and as a lion to the assailants. In many respects the Church may be like the lion.
I. In that religious awe which they exercise over the minds of ungodly men. The lion among beasts of the forest and the young lion among flocks of sheep are feared beyond description. The good examples and consistent lives of pious men often strike terror into the conscience, and check the evil practices of the wicked. They are awed by them and dare not harm them. Herod feared John because he was a holy man (Mark 6:20).
II. In the courage with which they attack antagonists. “If he go through, both treadeth down and teareth in pieces.” It boldly faces and braves the force of arms. Wounds rather provoke than repress its fierceness. It is not daunted by numbers; will often attack an entire caravan, and if overpowered in the combat, instead of flying, will gradually retreat with its face to the enemy until it dies. Luther and Latimer were the lions of the Church. Christians now through God are Cœur-de-lions, and endued with invincible power. “Terrible as an army with banners.”
III. In the victory which they gain over the enemy. “Lifted up upon thine adversaries.”
1. The victory is resistless. “None can deliver,” however strong and determined.
2. The victory is complete. “All thine enemies shall be cut off.” Ceasing to be enemies or destroyed in their opposition. The victories of the Maccabees were earnests of future glories. The hand of the Church shall be strengthened by the might of Jehovah. All adversaries will shortly be bruised under her feet. “And he went forth conquering and to conquer.”
ILLUSTRATIONS TO CHAPTER 5
Micah 5:8-9. The lion was the emblem of strength and sovereignty (The Lion of England). Illustrative of Israel (Numbers 24:9), and Judah (Genesis 49:9); the courage of brave men (2 Samuel 1:23; 2 Samuel 23:20), and the boldness of saints (Proverbs 28:1). The lion is fearless of men (Isaiah 31:4.; Nahum 2:11). What can a javelin do against his strength! But even the king of the forest can read the eye and the language of man. Moral force is greater than physical force. What then must be the strength of the Christian Church under the leadership of “The Lion of the tribe of Judah”!