December 6, 2016
God gave the prophet Hosea a word of accusation and warning for the priests of Israel. He accused them of failing to fulfill their calling to know, believe and teach God’s Word. This failure affected the people, who were being “destroyed for lack of knowledge,” and the next generation of children who no longer knew God, nor His Word. Today, we are the “priests” (1 Peter 2:9). And we are responsible to know, believe and preach God’s Word. Where the people in our world are being destroyed and the children are being forgotten, isn’t it because we have yet to give them the knowledge of God?
December 6, 2013
The prophet Hosea records this stinging accusation from God about Israel. Notice how God lists His concerns: First, He describes the brokenness of their relationship with Him, then He details the brokenness of their relationships with one another. As it regarded their relationship with God, He accused them of three “No”s– No faithfulness, no love, and no knowledge. These three “no”s were not only God’s priority concern, but they also led to His secondary concern, namely the breakdown of their human relationships, both family and civilization. In summary, they failed to keep the Great Commandment: Love God and love your neighbor as yourself.
December 6, 2012
The prophet Hosea was called to warn Israel as a nation. Israel’s unfaithfulness was considered adultery, as God called Himself Husband and Israel, His bride. Hosea warned that God had removed his favor and protection from Israel. Among Israel’s many sins was that there was “no knowledge of God” in the land any more. Is there “knowledge of God” in our nation? If not, be careful where you point the blame because God blamed Israel’s priests (Hos.4:4). Who are today’s priests? (Answer: 1 Peter 2:9).