Chapter 815 of 1163

HOSEA 2–3

God makes four declarations.

I will not have mercy (2:1–8). Israel accepted God’s gifts but used them to worship idols. Do we ever use our God-given resources for things that grieve Him? God withheld His mercy and allowed the nation to sink deeper into sin. What a tragedy!

I will punish her (2:9–13). He did this by taking away His blessings, especially the land’s fruitfulness. The people were still outwardly worshiping God (2:11), but their hearts were with the idols.

I will allure her (2:14–20; 3:1–5). Just as Hosea reclaimed his wife, so God will one day reclaim His people, renew His “marriage vows,” and restore His people to blessing (Jer. 3:1–20). This will occur in the latter days after Israel has suffered greatly at the hands of the Gentiles. There is hope!

I will sow her (2:21–3:5). Jezreel means “God will sow” (1:4–5) and refers to God’s planting His people again in their land where He will love them and bless them. The names will be changed (2:23)!

Note the declaration from the unfaithful wife: “I will go and return to my first husband” (2:7; Luke 15:18). When we return to our first love (Rev. 2:4–5), we can enjoy the first blessings.

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