Hosea: The Mega-Themes

HOSEA: The Mega-Themes

 

                  In the very beginning of the book we find God telling Hosea to marry a prostitute. That would represent a heightened example of unfaithfulness, as Gomer slept with other men and even had children by these strangers. 

Hosea served as a prophet to the northern kingdom (Israel) from 753 thru 715 BC. Israel’s last six kings particularly evil; they levied high taxes, oppressed the poor, and promoted idol worship ... showing total disregard toward Almighty God. The northern kingdom’s sin against God was like an adulterous woman who sins against her husband (as Gomer repeatedly did to her husband Hosea).

                  When someone sins they sever their relationship with God, thus breaking our commitment to Him. While we all must answer for our sins, those who have sought God and His forgiveness are spared eternal judgment.

                  Israel’s total disregard for God and others resulted in eventual judgment for we find that the northern kingdom fell to Assyria in 722 BC.

 

Mega-Themes

 

1) The Nation’s Sin 

Israel ignored God as if He didn’t exist and was judgment because of it. They surely knew of God’s existence yet chose to ignore Him and live as they chose. Their idolatry was very much like adultery. They made alliances with ungodly neighboring nations as a means of providing protection for the people. 

Like Hosea’s prostitute wife Gomer, today’s believer can chase after many other loves ... power, pleasure, money and/or recognition. The world’s temptations can be very seductive. Do other loves take God’s place in your lives? Are you completely faithful to your God? 

 

2) God’s Judgment

            Hosea solemnly and repeatedly warned Israel not to follow Judah’s example. Because they turned away from God, Judah experienced a devastating invasion by Babylon and were taken captive for 70 years. Sin has terrible consequences.

                  Those living today must realize that God is our only true refuge from the trials and tribulations of this life. Aside from God there is no safety or security that can be found.

 

3) God’s Love

            Just as Hosea continually went after his unfaithful wife, so the Lord God comes for us. It is out of love; tender, loyal, unchanging, and undying love. No matter what is ever thought, said, or done, God still loves each one of us. 

                  Whatever a believer does they mustn’t forget God or become disloyal to Him. Do not allow prosperity/success in this world blind you from your need for God and His love.

 

4) Restoration

            Although it is assured that judgment will come against any who have sinned, repentance becomes the game changer. True, sincere, earnest repentance opens the way to a brand new beginning where God offers complete forgiveness and restoration. This is no different than the restoration the Lord provided to Israel after they turned back to Him. One illustrates the other.

                  It should be said that no amount of loyalty, achievement or honor can be compared to your loving God. And no matter how far you stray from Him, it is never too far ... God is ALWAYS ready and willing to forgive you. 

 

Up next I have several side studies tied to Hosea that I’d like to share. One is a deeper look at ‘Gomer’, another is looking at ‘spiritual unfaithfulness’, and lastly a look at ‘Obedience vs. Sacrifice’. I hope you enjoy them.  Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His Name & for His Glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible