Reflection and Application Questions for Week Ending January 23, 2021

Sermon Topic: The Search is Still On: God has not Given Up.

Theme: God’s Reclaiming Mission; Text: Hosea 11:8-12; 4:1; 12:2

The prophecy of Hosea was during the time that Israel and Judah had forsaken the Lord and was serving false gods. Despite the gross idolatry of Israel, sometimes called Ephraim, God was still pursuing them and calling them back to Himself. To understand the depth of God’s love and the despicable actions of Israel, please read through the entire book of Hosea.

The Lord framed his accusation against Israel and Judah as a controversy or a case, a lawsuit. His first charge against Israel is that Israel has forsaken Him, Hosea 1:2. He calls their forsaking of Him harlotry or whoredom. Throughout the chapter, the Lord presents various evidences of Israel’s unfaithfulness. However, He also shows that he loved Israel and desires them to return to Him.

1. What would you say is your number one reason for remaining a follower of Jesus?

2. If you were to list the top ten things that God has done for you what would they be?

3. The imagery God used to show Israel’s unfaithfulness is that of a wife who has become a prostitute. How does this imagery help you to understand the sin of idolatry?

4. Imagine you were Hosea. And you were told by God to do what he told Hosea. What would be your biggest concern? Why do you think God instructed Hosea take a prostitute for his wife?

5. As our church is setting out in our effort to reclaim persons who have forsaken the Lord, how can we show love without compromising the truth, Hosea 1:7-10?

6. As you read through Hosea, list the number of times Hosea makes reference of Israel’s sins and the number of times he makes reference to God’s love, mercy, righteousness, justice and compassion. Share your findings with your fellow believers and pray that you will be able to demonstrate God’s kindness even to the unfaithful.