Hosea
In a world driven by image, it is easy to believe that we can create a new reality simply by putting on the right outward appearance. Want to become a runner? Buy a pair of Nike Alphafly 3s, some running shorts, a moisture-wicking shirt, and an Apple Watch. Then post a picture on Instagram (#gettingfit). Of course, none of those things actually make you healthier. They may be useful tools, but they are no substitute for discipline and transformation. Yet we are constantly tempted to believe that appearances create reality. Want to lose weight? Buy this shake. Want to be part of a championship team? Buy the jersey. Want to become an outdoorsman? Head to REI and stock up on hiking and camping gear. We often assume that looking the part is the same as being the part.
Israel fell into the very same trap. They believed that if they maintained the outward forms of religion, they would enjoy the Lord's favor. They claimed to know God while their hearts were far from Him. They continued to offer sacrifices while bowing before idols. They expected His blessing while rejecting His covenant. What remained was an empty religion built around dead idols instead of the living God.
Hosea describes their lives with a memorable image: "They sow the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind." They were busy planting, but what they planted had no substance. Their lives were full of religious activity but empty of genuine faith, and the harvest would be devastating.
As people living in a culture captivated by image, Hosea's warning speaks directly to us. God is not impressed by appearances or empty religious activity. He calls us to know Him truly and to worship Him sincerely. That kind of life is found not through better performance or more convincing appearances, but through Jesus Christ, who transforms us from the inside out.
To prepare for the sermon, spend time this week reading and meditating on Hosea 8:1-14, Exodus 32:1-10, 1 Kings 12:25-33, Isaiah 44:9-20, Hosea 4:12, Matthew 7:21-23, John 17:3, and this article on Idolatry.
This week, we will celebrate the Lord’s Supper during our worship service. As we partake of the bread and wine, trust in faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. When we receive these signs of His body and blood physically, spiritually we feed on Him and His blessings. Our hymns this week include “Hallelujah, Praise Jehovah, O My Soul,” “He Will Hold Me Fast,” and “And Can It Be That I Should Gain.”
Sermon Information:
Text: Hosea 8:1-14
Title: Sowing the Wind
Outline:
- Empty Knowledge (vv. 1-4a)
- Empty Worship (vv. 4b-6, 11-13)
- Empty Work (vv. 7-10, 14)