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The forceful and simple teaching of Micah is that Jehovah is holy and righteous. As long as His people do what is right, they will enjoy his favor. When they turn away from him in stubborn rebellion, they will suffer his judgment. Nearly one-third of Micah is an indictment of Israel and Judah for specific sins, including oppression; bribery among judges, prophets, and priests; exploitation of the powerless; covetousness; cheating; violence and pride. Another third of Micah predicts the judgment that was to come because of these sins, and the final third is a message of hope and consolation.
The “kindness and sternness” of God (Ro 11:22) are shown in Micah’s explanation of divine judgment and pardon. God’s justice will always triumph because he has promised a Deliverer. True justice and peace will prevail when Messiah reigns. The relationship between social ethics and spiritual integrity is underscored by Micah. He summarizes what God wants to find in his people. It is justice and equity tempered with mercy and compassion as the result of a humble and obedient relationship with him (Mic 6:8).
Thus Mic 6:8 along with 7:18 are key verses set in the context of these last two key chapters. God calls the mountains and the hills together as the jury in the case he brings against his people who have replaced heartfelt worship with empty ritual. They have divorced God’s standard of justice from their daily dealings, and they have failed to live up to what they have known to be right. The only possible verdict is guilty. But God also delights to extend mercy to anyone who will repent and obey his directives.