Having preached the condemnation that Israel’s idolatry deserved, Hosea once more calls the people to return to the LORD in honest confession. He gives them words to speak that both acknowledge the guilt and folly of their idolatry and look to the LORD’s mercy with faith. The LORD is quick with His promise. He speaks words of healing and love, in which He will cause His people to flourish in safety once again. Unlike idols that only make demands, the LORD promises only His gifts. Hosea calls Israel to hear the LORD’s word with the wisdom of faith, walking in the way that leads to life. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of this promise, for He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.   

Rev. Dr. John Bombaro, pastor at St. James Lutheran Church and School in Lafayette, IN and a chaplain for the LCMS serving with the 14th Marine Regiment, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Hosea 14:1-9. 

To learn more about St. James Lutheran, visit stjameslaf.org.

“Majoring in the Minors” is a mini-series on Sharper Iron that goes through the books of Hosea, Joel, Jonah, Micah, and Nahum. Although the books of these prophets are shorter, the Word of God they preached was important in the years leading up to the coming of the Christ, and that Word remains important for the Church today. Just as we still need to listen to their call to repentance over our idolatry, so we still need to heed their call to trust in the Savior, Jesus. 

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org