you who hate the good and love the evil, who tear the skin from off my people and their flesh from off their bones,
These rulers hate benevolence itself and love mischief; they are so inverted in spirit that they act like fiends. They strip the people bare as a shepherd skins rather than shears his flock, leaving nothing sound or safe, their rapacity so furious they war openly against everything just and right.
AI summary
The word of God reproves even the greatest men, and ministers must apply those reproofs faithfully. Princes are called to know and do justice impartially; their sin is the more provoking because they transgress against knowledge, with means and excuse that others lack.
AI summary
Commenting on Micah 3:1-7
These rulers hated good and loved evil directly contrary to their office and knowledge; they did not merely sin themselves but took pleasure in those who did. Like cruel shepherds or butchers, they fleeced and skinned their people with heavy taxes, fines, and plunder until nothing remained but bare bones.
AI summary