In this final chapter of Hosea, we read God’s plea to His people. In the first three verses we see what can only be described as a formula for repentance. Notice that God asks them to come back to Him with words. His people are to acknowledge their sin, receive God’s goodness, agree to worship in the prescribed way, acknowledge that only God can save them, and put away all idolatry.
God’s promise follows for a majority of the chapter. Matthew Henry is helpful here. He says:
“Israel seeks God’s face, and they shall not seek it in vain. His anger is turned from them. Whom God loves, he loves freely; not because they deserve it, but of his own good pleasure. God will be to them all they need.”
God’s Promises
When faithfulness is restored, God responds by pouring in His favor. He gives blessing in immeasurable amounts. God promises protection, growth, foundation, wealth, and influence. God gives these blessings to be used for His glory.
The last verse is something that we need to pay attention to. In fact, we hear echoes of this verse in the new testament.R
Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, (33) as it is written, “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offense; and whoever believes in him will not be put to shame.”
Romans 9:32-33 ESV
Obedience that saves comes through faith in the Son of God, Jesus Christ, only through Him are we able to live rightly. Repent, turn away from your idols, turn towards Christ. Cling to Him as your Lord and saviour and you will be saved.
Pastor Jonathan Welch
To start the study of Hosea from the beginning click here.
Image of Sea of Galilee from planetware.com
