Charles (Chuck) Kensinger

Hosea is a book of prophecy that seems odd. In chapter one we are introduced to him. He was around during the reigns of Uzziah through Hezekiah in Judah. His ministry was in marrying a woman who would be unfaithful to him. His family situation would point out the adultery that Israel and Judah committed against Jehovah. The children born in this family were given significant names. Jezreel indicates the punishment coming through the city’s destruction. Lo-Ruhamah is their second born and her name means not loved. Lo-Ammi is the third and that name means not my people.

Adultery is the subject of Hosea 2. Humans can cheat on their spouses and Yahweh looks at our failure to be true to Him to be spiritual adultery. The English words idolatry and adultery seem similar in structure. They are identical from God’s point of view. The language that is used here describes the similarity between these two terms. Isn’t it amazing that God loves us despite of sin?

What does it mean in Hosea 3 where Hosea is told by Jehovah to love his wife? In this situation he buys her away from prostitution. He made sure she knew what was expected of this relationship. This is like the life of the Hebrews and God.

Hosea 4 gives us the punishment that will come on Israel and Judah for their failure to honor the agreement they had made with Yahweh. The land will be destroyed, and thousands will die from pestilence, violence, and war. Even the priests will face the wrath of the Lord. Both men and women are being unfaithful to their spouses. They have committed themselves to their shameful ways.

Hosea warns the priests and the Israelites in chapter five. They are involved in prostitution on a spiritual level. He knows adultery on a personal level. They are unfaithful to Jehovah just as his wife was unfaithful to him. They went to Assyria for aid rather than asking their God. This condemnation is for Judah as well as the northern kingdom.

Returning to Yahweh is encouraged in Hosea 6. Mercy not sacrifice is required. He wishes to be acknowledged for who he is. Sacrifices are no longer offered as they were in Israel. The final sacrifice was Jesus on the cross. God promises to restore Judah despite their sin.

Yahweh makes it known in Hosea 7 that He remembers their sin. The sin is a failure to call on God for help He said He would provide.

©Copyright 2020 by Charles Kensinger