As we draw near to our conclusion of the book of Hosea, we continue to hear the same drum beat of judgement against the nation. It is not a new message, for from the time of the first king, Israel began to turn from their God. When it comes to a view of money, we will find a very clear distinction of what money is for, who money belongs to, what money can buy, and who owns the power, position, and distinction of money. Using this very common illustration and a knowledge of the trade practices of this time frame, Hosea shows that Israel has moved wholesale into a man-centered worldview. And this man-centered worldview is in direct conflict with God.
Israel has become as corrupt as the pagan nations around them. They have been adapted, versus being a separated people. As a result they have also lost a powerful witness of their unique relationship to the world and to their God, who is the owner of all things and who has made Israel the steward of His blessings to them and the world. As we hear Hosea’s charge, may we examine our hearts today, remembering the words of our Lord, “You cannot serve God and money.”
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June 2, 2013 | John Bayles | When Worldviews Collide (Hosea 12:7-14)
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