Day 178, more insights

The Chronology of Hosea and his Times; The Sovereign LORD The Chronology of Hosea and his Times Hosea was a prophet primarily to the northern ten tribes of Israel . Jeroboam II was their king. Although Israel’s other kings are not mentioned in Hosea 1:1 (perhaps because of the instability of the kingdom), Hosea was also a prophet to them. The other Israelite kings were Zechariah (Jeroboam’s son), Shallum, Menahem, Pekahiah, Pekah, and Hoshea. Ephraim was their most dominant tribe in the kingdom, and Samaria was their capital city. For this reason Israel is often called Ephraim or Samaria. The prophet also ministered during the reigns of four kings of Judah: Uzziah (also called Azariah), Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. The content in the book of Hosea seems to suggest he did not write it in one sitting. Hosea wrote chapters 1:1–5:7, about the same time as the prophet Amos wrote his book during the reigns of Uzziah and Jeroboam II. This was a prosperous time for both Israel and Judah, and they became lazy, wicked, and idol worshippers. Micah and Isaiah were contemporary prophets with Hosea and wrote after the death of King Uzziah. Hosea 5:8–14:9 anticipates a time of judgment for Judah. This judgment happens when Judah’s King Ahaz appeals to Assyria for help against Aram (Damascus) and King Pekah of Israel (2Chronicles 28). Later, Ephraim (Israel) appeals for help from the invading Assyrians during the reign of King Hoshea (2Kings 17:3-6). Some Ephraimites even cry out to the LORD in desperation , but unfortunately , it is too late; they are doomed to destruction (Hosea 13). Despite their impending judgment, Hosea ends with a message of hope for Israel if they will repent (Hosea 14). The Sovereign LORD The Bible Knowledge Commentary points out that the Sovereign LORD (mentioned frequently in Amos and other places throughout the O.T.) is compared to a Suzerain King . He has a covenant with a vassal nation , and t hat vassal nation in the book of Amos is Israel. There are stipulations to the covenant and judgments for violating them . This is why her people are sentenced to destruction and exile. (See March 14-24 More Page for a description of the Suzerain treaty)

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re-edited 6-28-21

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