Micah 4:7

KJV

And I will make her that halted a remnant, and her that was cast far off a strong nation: and the LORD shall reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth, even for ever.

KJV (with Strong's)

And I will make {H7760} her that halted {H6760} a remnant {H7611}, and her that was cast far off {H1972} a strong {H6099} nation {H1471}: and the LORD {H3068} shall reign {H4427} over them in mount {H2022} Zion {H6726} from henceforth, even for {H5704} ever {H5769}.

Complete Jewish Bible

I will make the lame a remnant and those who were driven off a strong nation." ADONAI will rule them on Mount Tziyon from that time forth and forever.

Berean Standard Bible

And I will make the lame into a remnant, and the outcast into a strong nation. Then the LORD will rule over them in Mount Zion from that day and forever.

American Standard Version

and I will make that which was lame a remnant, and that which was cast far off a strong nation: and Jehovah will reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth even for ever.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Micah 4:7 presents a profound prophecy of divine restoration and eternal sovereignty, declaring God's unwavering commitment to His people. It promises that the weakened and scattered remnant of Israel, symbolized as "her that halted" and "her that was cast far off," will be transformed by God's power into a "strong nation." This miraculous transformation culminates in the eternal reign of the LORD Himself over them from Mount Zion, establishing a perpetual kingdom of peace and strength.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Micah 4:7 is nestled within a pivotal section of Micah's prophecy (Micah 4:1-5:15) that dramatically shifts from pronouncements of judgment and desolation to glorious promises of restoration and future blessing for Judah and Israel. The preceding chapter, particularly [Micah 3:12](/micah/3-12 "Micah 3:12 - Jerusalem's Desolation"), vividly describes Jerusalem's destruction, setting a stark backdrop for the hope that follows. This verse directly follows the vision of the Lord's house being established on the mountain of the Lord in the [latter days](/micah/4-1 "Micah 4:1 - The Exaltation of Zion"), where nations will stream to Zion for divine instruction and peace. Thus, Micah 4:7 serves as a crucial bridge, detailing *how* this future glory will come about through God's redemptive work on His people and His direct, eternal rule.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The prophecies of Micah were delivered during a tumultuous period in Israel's history, spanning the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah (circa 750-700 BC). Both the Northern Kingdom (Israel) and the Southern Kingdom (Judah) faced the existential threat of Assyrian expansion, culminating in the fall of Samaria (722 BC) and the near-destruction of Jerusalem (701 BC). The people were characterized by spiritual idolatry, social injustice, and political corruption, leading to divine judgment, including exile and scattering. "Her that halted" and "her that was cast far off" directly reflect the historical reality of a people weakened by sin, fragmented by war, and dispersed through captivity. Mount Zion, the site of the Temple and the Davidic monarchy, was the spiritual and political heart of Judah, symbolizing God's presence and covenant with His people, making its mention here a powerful statement of future divine re-establishment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within Micah and broader biblical theology. It underscores **Divine Restoration**, showcasing God's sovereign ability to transform utter weakness and dispersion into strength and unity, a testament to His covenant faithfulness despite human failure. The concept of **The Remnant** is central, highlighting that God, in His justice and mercy, always preserves a faithful core of His people, even through judgment, to fulfill His redemptive purposes. This remnant is not merely preserved but actively empowered to become a "strong nation." Finally, the verse culminates in the theme of the **Eternal Reign of the LORD**, emphasizing God's ultimate and everlasting sovereignty centered in Jerusalem (Zion). This reign points toward the eschatological kingdom where God's rule will be fully and visibly established, fulfilling promises found elsewhere, such as the vision of a universal kingdom in [Daniel 2:44](/daniel/2-44 "Daniel 2:44 - The Kingdom of God Endures Forever") and the peaceful rule described in [Micah 4:3](/micah/4-3 "Micah 4:3 - Swords into Plowshares").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Halted (Hebrew, _tsâlaʻ'_):** This word (צָלַע, H6760) is a primitive root meaning "to limp" or "to be lame." In this context, it vividly portrays the spiritual and physical weakness, brokenness, or infirmity of God's people, Israel/Judah, due to their sin and the ensuing judgments. It suggests an inability to walk uprightly or to stand strong on their own, underscoring their desperate need for divine intervention and healing.
* **Remnant (Hebrew, _shᵉʼêrîyth'_):** The term (שְׁאֵרִית, H7611) refers to a "remainder" or "residual portion," specifically a surviving or final group. Theologically, it signifies a preserved and purified portion of God's people who endure through judgment and are chosen for His redemptive purposes. This remnant is not merely what is left, but a divinely preserved and empowered core, destined for future glory and the continuation of God's covenant.
* **Cast far off (Hebrew, _hâlâʼ'_):** This word (הָלָא, H1972) denotes being "removed" or "remote," implying expulsion or dispersion. It powerfully describes the state of the exiles and those scattered from their homeland due to God's judgment, emphasizing the severity of their separation and displacement before God's powerful act of gathering and restoration.
* **Reign (Hebrew, _mâlak'_):** This primitive root (מָלָךְ, H4427) means "to reign," "to ascend the throne," or "to induct into royalty." Here, it signifies the LORD's direct, sovereign, and active rule over His restored people. It points to a future where God's authority is fully and visibly established, not merely as an abstract concept, but as a tangible, kingly dominion from His chosen seat of power.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And I will make her that halted a remnant":** This clause reveals God's active, sovereign intention ("I will make"). "Her that halted" refers to Israel/Judah in its state of weakness, spiritual lameness, and brokenness, often a result of divine judgment for sin. God promises to transform this weakened entity into a "remnant"—a preserved, purified, and faithful core of His people, demonstrating His commitment to His covenant despite their failures.
* **"and her that was cast far off a strong nation":** Building on the first clause, this part specifies the transformation of those who were dispersed, exiled, or driven away from their land and covenant relationship. God will not only gather them but will empower them, making them a "strong nation" (H6099, H1471). This signifies not just numerical increase but a restoration to vitality, influence, and national identity, contrasting sharply with their previous state of weakness and scattering.
* **"and the LORD shall reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth, even for ever":** This is the climax of the prophecy, declaring the ultimate outcome of God's restorative work. The divine agent is explicitly named as "the LORD" (Yahweh, H3068), emphasizing His covenant faithfulness and power. His reign will be direct and absolute, centered "in mount Zion" (H2022, H6726), the symbolic and actual seat of His presence in Jerusalem. The phrase "from henceforth, even for ever" (H5704, H5769) underscores the eternal and irreversible nature of this divine rule, pointing to a permanent, everlasting kingdom where God's sovereignty is fully established.

#### Literary Devices
Micah 4:7 employs several powerful literary devices to convey its message of hope and divine sovereignty. **Personification** is evident in "her that halted" and "her that was cast far off," where the nation of Israel/Judah is given human characteristics of weakness and displacement, making their plight relatable. This imagery is also a strong **Metaphor**, portraying the spiritual and physical brokenness of the people as a literal physical infirmity or exile. The verse utilizes **Contrast** by juxtaposing the initial state of weakness ("halted," "cast far off") with the promised state of strength ("a remnant," "a strong nation"), highlighting the miraculous nature of God's restorative power. Finally, the declaration of the LORD's eternal reign "in mount Zion" functions as powerful **Symbolism**, where Mount Zion represents not just a geographical location but the spiritual center of God's presence, His chosen dwelling place, and the seat of His universal, everlasting kingdom.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Micah 4:7 is a profound testament to God's enduring covenant faithfulness and His ultimate sovereignty over history. It articulates the divine commitment to restore His people, even after judgment, transforming their weakness and dispersion into strength and unity under His direct, eternal rule. This vision underscores the biblical truth that God's purposes for His chosen people will ultimately prevail, culminating in a future where His kingdom is fully and visibly established on earth, bringing everlasting peace and righteousness from Zion. The verse foreshadows the eschatological hope of a regenerated Israel and a world brought under the perfect governance of the Almighty.

* [Isaiah 10:21](/isaiah/10-21 "Isaiah 10:21 - The Remnant Will Return") – Prophesies the return of a remnant of Jacob to the mighty God.
* [Jeremiah 31:10](/jeremiah/31-10 "Jeremiah 31:10 - God Will Gather Israel") – Declares that He who scattered Israel will gather them and keep them as a shepherd keeps his flock.
* [Isaiah 2:2-4](/isaiah/2-2-4 "Isaiah 2:2-4 - The Mountain of the Lord's House") – Describes the exaltation of the Lord's house on Mount Zion in the latter days, where all nations will flow to it for instruction and peace.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Micah 4:7 offers a powerful message of hope and divine assurance for believers today. It reminds us that no matter how broken, weak, or "cast off" we may feel due to personal failures, societal challenges, or spiritual struggles, God possesses the infinite power and unwavering desire to heal, strengthen, and restore. Our past mistakes or present vulnerabilities do not negate His ability to transform us into instruments for His purposes. This verse instills confidence in God's ultimate plan for history, affirming that His kingdom will prevail eternally, and His sovereign rule will bring about perfect justice and peace. It encourages perseverance in faith, knowing that even in times of personal or collective adversity, divine preservation and future glory are assured through His everlasting reign. We are called to trust in His restorative power and align our lives with the coming of His eternal kingdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life do you feel "halted" or "cast far off," and how does the promise of God's restoration speak to those areas?**
* **What does it mean for the LORD to "reign over" you personally, and how does that influence your daily decisions and outlook?**
* **How does the promise of God's eternal reign from Mount Zion shape your hope for the future of the world and the Church?**

### FAQ
**Who are "her that halted" and "her that was cast far off"?**

Answer: These phrases are metaphorical expressions referring to the people of Israel and Judah. "Her that halted" (or "limped") vividly portrays their spiritual and physical weakness, brokenness, and inability to stand firm, often due to their sin and the resulting divine judgment or foreign oppression. "Her that was cast far off" refers to those who were exiled, scattered, and dispersed from their homeland, particularly after the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities. Together, they represent the entire covenant people of God in their state of brokenness and dispersion, whom God promises to restore and gather.

**What is the significance of the LORD reigning "in mount Zion from henceforth, even for ever"?**

Answer: Mount Zion, located in Jerusalem, was the site of the Temple and the Davidic monarchy, symbolizing God's dwelling place and the center of His covenant with Israel. The promise that the LORD will reign "in mount Zion" signifies the re-establishment of His direct, visible, and sovereign rule from His chosen spiritual and governmental capital. The phrase "from henceforth, even for ever" emphasizes the eternal and irreversible nature of this reign. It points to the ultimate, everlasting kingdom of God, where His perfect will and justice will be fully realized, bringing enduring peace and righteousness to His people and the world. This is often understood as the eschatological kingdom, ultimately fulfilled in the person and work of the Messiah.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Micah 4:7 finds its ultimate and profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the promised Messiah. The "her that halted" and "her that was cast far off" are not only the literal nation of Israel but also prophetically represent all humanity, broken by sin and alienated from God, spiritually "limping" and "cast far off" from His presence. Jesus, through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, became the means by which this restoration is accomplished. He gathers those who were scattered, making them a "remnant" of believers, a "strong nation" in the spiritual sense—the Church, His body, composed of both Jews and Gentiles who are reconciled to God and to one another ([Ephesians 2:13-16](/ephesians/2-13-16 "Ephesians 2:13-16 - Christ Our Peace")). His first coming inaugurated the kingdom of God, and He now reigns spiritually from His heavenly throne, which is the true, heavenly [Mount Zion](/hebrews/12-22-24 "Hebrews 12:22-24 - The Heavenly Jerusalem"). The promise that "the LORD shall reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth, even for ever" points to Christ's eternal kingship, which will be fully and visibly established at His second coming, when He returns to reign physically from Jerusalem, bringing about the new heavens and new earth where God's dwelling is with humanity forever ([Revelation 21:1-4](/revelation/21-1-4 "Revelation 21:1-4 - New Heaven and New Earth")). Thus, Micah's prophecy of restoration and eternal reign culminates in the person and work of Jesus, the King of kings and Lord of lords ([Revelation 19:16](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Micah 7:18

Who [is] a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth [in] mercy.

Isaiah 24:23

Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign in mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously.

Daniel 7:14

And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom [that] which shall not be destroyed.

Micah 5:7

¶ And the remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many people as a dew from the LORD, as the showers upon the grass, that tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men.

Micah 5:8

And the remnant of Jacob shall be among the Gentiles in the midst of many people as a lion among the beasts of the forest, as a young lion among the flocks of sheep: who, if he go through, both treadeth down, and teareth in pieces, and none can deliver.

Luke 1:33

And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.

Micah 2:12

¶ I will surely assemble, O Jacob, all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as the flock in the midst of their fold: they shall make great noise by reason of [the multitude of] men.