“And you, Bethlehem, land of Judea, are by no means the least among the cities of Judea, for from you a ruler will come out for me, who will shepherd my people, Israel” (Mic. 5:1 (5:2)).”
These verses show that the religious leaders knew precisely the word of prophecy concerning the Messiah’s birthplace. Without hesitation they quote the prophecy of the prophet Micah (Mic. 5:1 (5:2)), according to which Christ was to be born in Bethlehem, the city of David. Although they gave the correct answer, their knowledge was not turned into living faith: they did not go to see the newborn King. This contrast reveals that knowledge of Holy Scripture without faith does not draw one near to God. What is said in Micah’s prophecy confirms that messianic salvation was to arise from a humble city—not by worldly glory, but by divine power. Bethlehem, though small and insignificant, was chosen by God to become the birthplace of the eternal King. The words, “Out of thee shall come forth a ruler for Me,” refer to Christ, the heir of David, who was to shepherd His people not with earthly authority, but with spiritual guidance. Thus the prophecy was fulfilled through the birth of Jesus, showing that God’s plan of salvation works by divine providence.