Hosea 1


 
One of the things Hosea does for us is give us God's side. A husband whose wife has left him, and a father whose children are like strangers in his own house and are fast destroying themselves.
The message of Hosea, Derek Kidner, 1976

Opening question

  • When you first got together with your spouse, what were you looking for in a partner and what did you find in them?

Study

Read Hosea 1:1-11.

  1. What instructions does the Lord give Hosea in this chapter?
  2. Describe the emotions Hosea may have felt during these first years with Gomer and the chidren.
  3. Imagine you were Gomer. What do you think your life was like both before and after you met Hosea?
  4. Hosea and Gomer's relationship points to the same relationship between God and his people. In chapter 1, how does God currently feel about his people/bride? (hint: consider the children's names)
  5. Read the following. What can we learn about Israel?
    • Hosea 4:1-3
    • Hosea 5:4-5
    • Hosea 7:7-8
    • Hosea 10:13
  6. Vs 10/11 points to a great change. Read John 3:28-29 and John 11:51-52. Why is Jesus the greater Hosea?
  7. How does Hosea’s marriage and God’s love for an adulterous people encourage you this week?
Artwork © Alison Gilmour

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