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Read: Micah 5:2
Listen: Micah 5

But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. Micah 5:2

This year, we’ve been looking for Jesus in the Old Testament to see how God’s plan always included Jesus saving us from our sins. As we enter December and celebrate Christ’s birth, we see how six minor prophets point to Jesus’s first and second coming, showing God’s perfect timing in sending our Savior.

These minor prophets reveal various parts of God’s redemptive plan. Obadiah proclaims God’s justice against pride while pointing to Christ’s future kingdom (Obadiah 1:15). Jonah’s three days in the fish and mission to Nineveh foreshadow Jesus’s death, resurrection and heart for all peoples (Matthew 12:39-40). Micah prophesies Jesus’ humble birth in Bethlehem and promises his reign of peace, offering hope amid dark times (Micah 5:2-5). Nahum declares God’s righteous judgment against evil, which Jesus will fully execute at his return (Nahum 1:7-8). Habakkuk teaches living by faith in desperate situations, pointing to Jesus’s perfect trust in the Father’s plan (Habakkuk 2:4). Haggai anticipates the true temple, fulfilled in Jesus whose presence dwells among the people (Haggai 2:9, John 1:14).

Throughout these books, we see Jesus as both the suffering servant and conquering king, the baby born in Bethlehem and the judge who will return in glory. Each prophet provides a unique glimpse of Jesus’s character, mission and coming kingdom. Together, they paint a picture of our Savior who brings justice and mercy, judgment and grace, sovereignty and sacrifice.

TODAY: As you read these prophets, ask God to show you how they point to Jesus. Thank him for sending Jesus to be our perfect ruler, righteous judge and eternal temple who fulfills all that Scripture said about him (Luke 24:27).

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read Obadiah 1. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Consider how Jesus teaches that those who exalt themselves will be humbled (Matthew 23:12).