Hos 12:2, Mic 1:5 | JFB | STEP | 2. controversy with Judah-- ( ; ). Judah, under Ahaz, had fallen into idolatry ( , &c.). Jacob-- that is, the ten tribes. If Judah, the favored portion of the nation, shall not be spared, much less degenerate Israel.

‏ Hosea 12:2

2. controversy with Judah--(Ho 4:1; Mi 6:2). Judah, under Ahaz, had fallen into idolatry (2Ki 16:3, &c.).

Jacob--that is, the ten tribes. If Judah, the favored portion of the nation, shall not be spared, much less degenerate Israel.

‏ Micah 1:5

5. For the transgression of Jacob is all this--All these terrors attending Jehovah's coming are caused by the sins of Jacob or Israel, that is, the whole people.

What is the transgression of Jacob?--Taking up the question often in the mouths of the people when reproved, "What is our transgression?" (compare Mal 1:6, 7), He answers, Is it not Samaria? Is not that city (the seat of the calf-worship) the cause of Jacob's apostasy (1Ki 14:16; 15:26, 34; 16:13, 19, 25, 30)?

and what are the high places of Judah?--What city is the cause of the idolatries on the high places of Judah? Is it not Jerusalem (compare 2Ki 18:4)?