Hosea 6:1-3
Read Hosea 6:1-3
Helpful Background Information:
The Book of Hosea is the sole source of information about the author. Little is known of this prophet, but Hosea was likely a native of the Northern Kingdom of Israel due to his knowledge of the history and geography of the north; in addition to his calling the King of Israel “our king” (Hosea 7:5). This would make him and Jonah the only writing prophets from the Northern Kingdom. Hosea had a lengthy period of ministry, prophesying from around 755-710 B.C.
Although the book contains much condemnation, both individual and national, the primary theme of Hosea is God’s love for his covenant people despite their idolatry.
In our passage today, Hosea’s call to repentance comes after Israel’s sinful choice to find peace and security from the King of Assyria (Hosea 5:12-13). Making any sort of alliance with pagan nations was expressly prohibited by God, as it was tantamount to idolatry and excusing the sin of other nations. Add to this the idolatry and foolishness of Israel’s leaders, and what we see is that the nation was under judgment from God: struck down and metaphorically full of sickness.
However, as Hosea 6:1-3 shows, the promise of restoration was not far off. All the Israelites had to do was return to the Lord. Even after judgment, if they repented, God would heal them and bind them up. In verse 2, Hosea says that “on the third day, God will raise us up.” Although Hosea was writing about the people of Israel, Jesus, in Mark 8:31, likely had this Scripture in mind when explaining that he must be killed and rise in three days specifically. The reason for this is that Jesus was the greater embodiment and fulfillment of Old Testament Israel - being faithful where Israel failed. (For example, just as Israel wandered in the wilderness for 40 years, so too did Jesus wander in the wilderness for 40 days). Just as Israel was promised resurrection after three days, so too would Jesus be physically resurrected after three days.
Reflection Questions:
Despite Israel’s rebellion, God was still willing to heal and restore. What does this teach us about repentance and God’s mercy? Do you ever struggle to believe that God can restore you after failure?
Verse 2 speaks of revival and restoration “on the third day.” How does this deepen your understanding of Jesus’ resurrection? Why do you think God weaved these foreshadowings of Christ throughout the Old Testament?
Hosea calls the people to “return to the Lord.” In what ways do you feel God might be calling you to return to Him right now? Is there an area of your life where you’ve sought peace or security outside of God?