Revolters and Rebukes

O. T. #2041  "Revolters and Rebukes"

Oct. 7, 2021

Hosea 5

LET IT GLOW

So far, we have read about the charges that the Lord had against the nation of Israel (Northern Kingdom), the priests,  and the spectators in the court (Judah watching). Now, we will see the evidence that the Judge applied to the rulers/leaders of Israel (verses 1-7):

• The religious leaders (priests) and governmental leaders were prominent in leading the nation into sin. Their snare and spread net lead into idolatry. (1a)
• They trapped innocent people and exploited them; sin paralyzed them.
• They were revolters, which means departure from right. They could not hide nor escape from the notice of God.
• Therefore, God was their rebuke, chastisement; reproof; warning or instruction; discipline. God saw them for what they truly were-idolators, adulterers. He knew completely and thoroughly them and their condition. (verses 2-3)
• They would not frame (leave, turn to God, yield) their doings to God. Rather than repenting and being ashamed of their sins, they flaunted them. Their sins affected others, for Judah would follow them.
• Their pride and arrogance testified against them. (verse 5)

Strong accusations, huh? Yet, they were guilty since God could see into the hearts of the leaders in Israel. What was the cause of all of this? They did not know the Lord and their arrogance only lead them to stumble and fall into sin. (Prov. 16:18)

May we not fall into this same trap! I am sorry for disobeying Your Word and You, for making things more important than You, God. Please for me and us.

LET IT GROW

What will happen next to Israel?

• When they come with their flocks and herds to offer sacrifices to the LORD, they will not find Him because God has withdrawn from them. (verse 6)
• They betrayed the honor of the LORD, bearing children that are not His. Their illegitimate children and their monthly feasts would soon become funerals.
• Their false religion will devour them along with their wealth.

When they approach God in hypocrisy and insincerity, God's judgment  fell upon Israel. Their possessions and religious trappings were taken into captivity by Assyria.

Folks, the same could happen to our nation. Giving away free money will bankrupt us. Making allies with ungodly nations will only make us prey for them to conquer. Turning from God and not teaching His Word to the next generations will put us deep into the pit of sin as Israel.

LET IT GO

May we walk in Your Truth, Your Ways.

May we identify sins that are rebellion against Holy God.

May we turn back to You.

Keep us humbly serving You.

May we love You Jesus, forever and ever.

May we proclaim Your salvation, holiness, forgiveness, love, and truth.