Overview of

The book of Hosea

Mendenhall Reference Bible.

Name and Author

Hosea, "salvation," is the name of this book and the prophet whose messages are recorded herein. This book heads the list of the latter or Minor Prophets also known as the book of twelve. Since the messages of these prophets were so brief they were placed on one scroll at an early period after they were written.

The author, considered to be Hosea himself, lived during the eighth century beginning during the reign of Jeroboam II, c.760 B.C., and continued possibly through the fall of Samaria, c.723.

Theme and Content

Hosea's own marital experience in chapters 1-3 provided the basis for the message. Gomer's subsequent unfaithfulness portrayed the apostate condition resulting from Israel's unfaithfulness to God. The symbolic names of the children reflect God's displeasure and signify the withdrawl of God's mercies from his covenant people.

The sinfulness of Israel and her religious and political leaders is clearly set forth with the warnings of impending judgment, chapters 4-10. God's love for Israel, illustrated previously on a marital basis by Hosea, is projected on a paternal relationship in Chapter 11. Israel is warned to repent with the promise of restoration.

Note about the introductions to the Books in The Mendenhall Bible, they are all nonsectarian and written by competent people, most of them with advanced degrees.

Everything happens for a reason.

Think big picture :-).

This aint about us.

Never was.