February 16, 2025
Hosea 1:2-20; 3:1-4:3; 6:1-6; 11: 1-11; 14:1-9 — Hosea’s marriage illustrates God’s relationship with his people. It’s a love story about God’s constant and persistent love for his sinful people. A covenant has been made, and God has been faithful. His love was steadfast, and his commitment unbroken. But Israel was adulterous and unfaithful, spurning God’s love and turning instead to false gods. They broke the covenant. Idolatry is like adultery. The fundamental sin of Israel was that “there is no faithfulness or kindness or knowledge of God in the land” (4:1). God wants people to turn from their sin and return to worshipping him alone, but Israel persisted in their wickedness. They are described as ignorant of God, with no desire to please him. They did not understand God at all. Like a loving husband and father, God wants people to know him and to turn to him daily. God has not changed. He is still merciful and forgiving if we repent and return to him. His love is steadfast and never fails. We have seen and experienced his love in Jesus Christ, who sacrificed himself to give us new life.
Series on the Old Testament Prophets — Walk in God’s Ways.
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