Book of Hosea

 God saying, “ I want to show love, I want you to know me “

The historical background and purpose of the prophet Hosea

Prophet to the Northern Kingdom, (King Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah) on the brink of disaster, about the same time as Amos. But he had a different message. He started prophesying around 750 BC and continued until the Northern Kingdom fell in 722 BC. Hosea is prophet when things are hard, there is again a focus on the people of God who didn´t not follow the Covenant in DT 28, Lev. 26.

Hosea is asked to marry Gomer, a prostitute and have children, trough adultery, remarrying and we read about their troubles. We can see a man's love and his commitment to his wife as foreshadowing Gods love for Israel. Even she is unfaithful and worships other gods – God so much want her back and restore.

The names of the children and the redeeming of them are significant.

Theme tracing:                                                                                                                                                                                               

What does the book show about the character and nature of God?                                                                                                                             

This book is just full of statements that God want to show love, He want His people to love Him. Ch.6.6

“I want to restore, I want to heal” ch.6.11-7.1

“I want to heal them”ch.7.13

“My heart is torn within me and my compassion overflows. I am the Holy one living among you and I will no come to destroy.” ch.11.8b-9a

“ My love will know no bounds” ch. 14.4

But also anger ch.7.12 and judgment ch 4., 11.9a

“Hesed” the Hebrew word for steadfast love, love and kindness, with righteousness is used in this book.

Hosea 6.8

What does this book show about God´s redemptive plan for mankind?                                                                                                                    

The picture of marriage – reconciliation but a struggle – God and his people, Jesus and the church

Rom 9.25-26

1.Peter 2-9-10

In the last verses in ch Hoses pleads the people to return are God

and confess – and there is a confessing quoted – on which God again proclaim His love and gives hope for restoration and his longing for relation.                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

Application questions                                                                                                                                                                                 

Personal application:                                                                                                                                                                                        

The book of Hosea was a touching story of God’s love and longing for His “bride”  - SO much more to dig into and write about – but I will really carry the Heart call with me from this prophet week.