English NET Bible - 2005 (New English Translation)
Micah 3:5 — English NET Bible - 2005 (New English Translation)
This is what the LORD says: “The prophets who mislead my people are as good as dead. If someone gives them enough to eat, they offer an oracle of peace. But if someone does not give them food, they are ready to declare war on him.
What Does This Mean?
In this verse from Micah, God is speaking about false prophets who mislead people for their own benefit. These prophets say what the people want to hear when they get gifts but declare war on those who don't offer them anything.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have some friends who tell you that everything's okay as long as you give them your snacks, but if you don't share, they say mean things about you. God is saying this isn't right and He doesn't like it when people act this way just to get what they want.
Historical Background
Micah wrote this around 750-700 BC in Judah, addressing the corruption among prophets who used their positions for personal gain. The cultural setting involved widespread social injustice and religious hypocrisy.
Living It Out Today
Today, we might see this as people only giving positive feedback when they receive benefits or are paid well. For example, a business consultant who only speaks positively about a company to keep getting paid but criticizes companies that don't offer good deals.
