Micah 7:18 - Exposition

In view of the many provocations and backslidings of the people, Micah is filled with wonder at the goodness and long suffering of God. Who is a God like unto thee? The question seems to recall the prophet's own name, which means, "Who is like Jehovah?" and the clause in Moses' song ( Exodus 15:11 ), "Who is like unto thee, O Lord, among the gods?" Such comparisons are made from the standpoint of the nations who believe in the real existence of their false gods. That pardoneth iniquty (comp. Exodus 34:7 ; Numbers 14:18 ). Passeth by the transgression; Septuagint, ὑπερβαίνων ἀσεβείας , "passing over iniquities;" Vulgate, transis peccatum. To pass by, or pass over, is to forgive, as Amos 7:8 . There is probably an allusion, as Jerome says, to the night of the Exodus. As the destroying angel passed over the Israelites and destroyed them not, so God spares his people, imputing not their iniquities unto them. The remnant ( Micah 2:12 ; Micah 4:6 , Micah 4:7 ). The true Israel, which is only s remnant ( Isaiah 10:21 ; Romans 9:27 ). He retaineth not his anger forever ( Psalms 103:9 ). The word rendered "forever" is translated by Jerome ultra , and by the Septuagint εἰς μαρτύριον , i.e. to testify the justice of his punishment. He delighteth in mercy. As the Collect says, "O God, whose nature and property is always to have mercy and to forgive" (comp. Wis. 11:24).