The Minor Prophets are so named not because their messages were any less important or inspired but because their writings were shorter. Often God called them to deliver one specific message and then they went back to their vocation. Some are very familiar, like Jonah. Others, like Nahum or Zephaniah, are not so well known. Over the next several study tips, we'll look at these short books and point out what makes them relevant and worth a closer look.
Hosea lived during a time of peace and prosperity in Israel, but it was also marked by immorality and spiritual apathy. 2 Kings 14-20 and 2 Chronicles 26-32 give the historical setting for his writings. God called him to demonstrate His divine love for His wayward people by marrying and remaining faithful to a woman who would leave him repeatedly for a life of adultery and prostitution. Hosea took in children he had not fathered. He endured repeated shame and heartbreak, and even purchased the wife he loved from a slave market.
Things to look for in Hosea
Personal details – We don't get many, but take note of what you learn about Hosea and his family. His name is linguistically related to "Joshua" and "Jesus" – they all mean "salvation". Does his name fit him. Does he have anything in common with Joshua or Jesus?
God's character – What do you learn about God and His heart for His people? What is His tone when He speaks?
Sin and its consequences – What sins does Gomer commit? What sins has Israel committed? Are they similar? What is God trying to teach His people (and us) through Hosea's response to his wife's unfaithfulness?
BONUS: Compare what you learn about God's love in Hosea with what John says about His love in 1 John (or even in the gospel of John). Has God's love changed?
BONUS #2: I spent some time studying Hosea for Contingency and Indemnity, and I found he is quoted quite often in the New Testament. What themes and ideas do you recognize from the New Testament? Were you surprised to find they originated with Hosea?
Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap in mercy; break up your fallow ground, for it is time to seek the Lord, till He comes and rains righteousness on you. Hosea 10:12