The sermon by James Fetterly focuses on the book of Hosea, specifically chapters 4 and 5, and explores the themes of sin, judgment, and the grace of God in the context of the Israelite society. Hosea serves as a "prosecutor" for God, laying out the case against Israel for their spiritual adultery, disobedience, and abandonment of the Lord.
The sermon begins by diving into the root problem of Israel's disobedience: lack of knowledge. The "knowledge of God" is not just intellectual awareness but involves a deep, intimate relationship with God, manifesting in obedience and love for Him. In Hosea 4:1-5, the indictment against Israel includes not only the absence of faithfulness, kindness, and the knowledge of God but also the prevalence of swearing, lying, and murder.
Leadership, both religious and political, is especially called out. The leaders are accused of misleading the people, of being corrupt, and as a result, the whole land mourns. Leaders share a greater responsibility, for they lead not just themselves but the entire community astray. In Hosea 4:10, the society is seen seeking joy in sin, yet failing to find true satisfaction, illustrating how sin only leads to misery.
As for the individuals, they too have turned to other gods, seeking guidance from pieces of wood and engaging in sorcery and unauthorized sacrifices. This collective sin has consequences, impacting future generations and perpetuating the cycle of sin and misery.
However, there is a note of mercy; God holds back the complete judgment they deserve. The focus then shifts from Israel to Judah. Hosea warns Judah not to follow Israel's mistakes. Israel is compared to a stubborn heifer that cannot be led to a better path.
The sermon concludes on a gospel-centered note, highlighting that while everyone has sinned and broken God's covenant, there is hope in Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfilled the covenant. The call is for people to confess their sins and turn to Christ to escape the coming wrath and to find eternal life.
The overarching message is that sin has real, devastating consequences, but God's grace offers a way out for those who repent and turn to Jesus Christ. The sermon emphasizes the importance of staying true to the covenantal relationship with God, warning of the dire consequences for those who stray, and encouraging a return to faithfulness through Christ. Amen.
