Posted at Reformation Scotland:
When those with greater responsibility are guilty, what are the implications for ordinary people?
Although there are plenty deep-seated problems in society it can sometimes seem that the ruling classes are operating on a different plane. There is a top-down imposition of progressive policies which are not only out of tune with the electorate’s concerns but also from a moral and ethical point of view not in the nation’s interests. Multiple scandals in the UK in recent years have contributed to a deep disillusionment with both elected and unelected authorities and a feeling that successive governments can work with striking efficiency in their own interests but are aimless and incompetent when it comes to the citizens they ostensibly serve. Church leadership is not much different and many people who retain some respect for Christian values and ideals write off the institutional church as rotten and venal. The prophet Micah had the courage and perseverance to challenge both state and church authorities for their sins. In the following updated extract, George Hutcheson explores Micah’s critique and the culpability of those who hold office in church and state.Leaders in church and state are culpable
In chapter 3, verses 9 to 11, Micah speaks faithfully to all sorts of rulers, both civil and ecclesiastical, conjointly. He sets before them their sin, and how they had procured the ruin of Zion. He accuses the state authorities because although they ought to have been patrons of justice, they abhorred and perverted it. Instead of adorning the holy city with justice and judgment, all they cared about was stately buildings, and they raised funds for that by cruel oppression. Micah accuses them all generally of perverting justice through bribery and covetousness. The churchmen were mercenary, and made their calling subservient to their gain. Yet all of them were carnally confident, and presumptuous about having God’s favour and presence among them, assuming that they would be exempt from judgment.
When people in eminent places have become accustomed to sin, they are usually deaf to what the Lord says. They must be called often to “hear” (v.1, v.2, v.9). The messengers of the Lord must not give up when their message is not received. They must announce it until either they are listened to, or they have delivered their own souls. “Hear, I pray you,” Micah repeats. Yet, when faithful ministers reprove the faults of rulers, they must give evidence that they do not despise their authority when they do so. They must not be lacking in giving any signs of respect which are due to them.