Journey Through the Minor Prophets, Part 1ਨਮੂਨਾ

Intro

Nicole introduces this lesson on Hosea, a prophet who had an assignment none of us would have wanted. God will put him in a marriage with a promiscuous wife to live out a real-life parable of the relationship between God and his people. The comparison between religious idolatry and marriage infidelity fills the book. This comparison redefines true religion as faithful relationship. It’s about covenant.

God is about to do something so unthinkable that he needs this walking object lesson to explain it. Let’s prepare to feel the horror … and hope portrayed by Hosea.

Diversity of Psalms: In the Text

Hosea uses a profoundly troubling metaphor to describe Israel’s unfaithfulness. It was so important that they understand this metaphor, God required the prophet Hosea to live it out.

A Symbol for Hosea

Hosea warns that any attempt to thrive or become fruitful apart from the Torah will be doomed to fail. If Israel is not faithful to YHWH, he will judge the people and withdraw his protection. Israel will wither by its own efforts and “reap the whirlwind” it has sown. But after its punishment, in a time of exile, Israel will blossom as a transplant in another land. The people will repent and flourish in God’s compassionate presence.

People will dwell again in his shade;

they will flourish like the grain,

they will blossom like the vine—

Israel’s fame will be like the wine of Lebanon.

Ephraim, what more have I to do with idols?

I will answer him and care for him.

I am like a flourishing juniper;

your fruitfulness comes from me.

Hosea 14:7-8 (NIV)

Idolatry & Marital Infidelity

Mercy & Restoration