Hosea 1:1

This is the word of the LORD that came to Hosea son of Beeri in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah, and of Jeroboam son of Jehoash, king of Israel.

Study Bible

This is the word of the LORD
The phrase indicates divine revelation, emphasizing that the message originates from God Himself. In the Hebrew tradition, the "word of the LORD" is a powerful and authoritative communication, often delivered through prophets. This underscores the seriousness and divine authority behind Hosea's message.

that came to Hosea son of Beeri
Hosea, whose name means "salvation," is identified as the son of Beeri. This personal identification roots the prophecy in history, providing authenticity. Hosea's role as a prophet is significant, as he is called to deliver God's message to a wayward Israel. The name Beeri, meaning "my well," is not mentioned elsewhere in the Bible, suggesting Hosea's humble origins.

in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah
This timeframe situates Hosea's ministry during a period of significant political and spiritual turmoil. Uzziah's reign was marked by prosperity but also pride and eventual downfall (2 Chronicles 26). Jotham continued in his father's ways, maintaining stability (2 Kings 15:32-38). Ahaz, however, led Judah into idolatry and alliances with Assyria (2 Kings 16). Hezekiah, known for his reforms and faithfulness, sought to restore true worship (2 Kings 18-20). This context highlights the contrast between Judah's fluctuating faithfulness and Israel's persistent rebellion.

and of Jeroboam son of Jehoash, king of Israel
Jeroboam II's reign was a time of economic prosperity but spiritual decline in Israel (2 Kings 14:23-29). Despite outward success, the nation was steeped in idolatry and injustice, setting the stage for Hosea's prophetic warnings. Jeroboam's lineage connects back to the first Jeroboam, who led Israel into sin by establishing golden calves (1 Kings 12:26-33), illustrating the enduring legacy of disobedience.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hosea
A prophet of God, whose name means "salvation" in Hebrew. He is called to deliver God's message to the Northern Kingdom of Israel.

2. Beeri
Hosea's father, about whom little is known, but his name means "my well" or "expounder" in Hebrew.

3. Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah
Kings of Judah during whose reigns Hosea prophesied. Their reigns provide a historical context for Hosea's ministry.

4. Jeroboam son of Jehoash
King of Israel during the early part of Hosea's ministry. His reign was marked by prosperity but also idolatry and moral decline.

5. Israel and Judah
The divided kingdoms of God's people. Israel (the Northern Kingdom) is the primary focus of Hosea's prophecies, though Judah (the Southern Kingdom) is also mentioned.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in History
Hosea's ministry is set against a backdrop of specific historical events, reminding us that God is actively involved in the affairs of nations and individuals.

The Importance of Obedience
Hosea's message underscores the consequences of Israel's disobedience, highlighting the importance of faithfulness to God's covenant.

Prophetic Ministry
Hosea's role as a prophet demonstrates the courage and commitment required to speak God's truth, even when it is unpopular or difficult.

Spiritual Adultery
The book of Hosea uses the metaphor of marital unfaithfulness to describe Israel's idolatry, challenging us to examine our own faithfulness to God.

Hope and Restoration
Despite the warnings of judgment, Hosea's message ultimately points to God's desire for repentance and restoration, offering hope for renewal.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the historical context of Hosea's ministry enhance our interpretation of his message?

2. In what ways does Hosea's call to prophesy during the reigns of specific kings reflect God's sovereignty over history?

3. How can we apply the lessons of Israel's disobedience and idolatry to our own spiritual lives today?

4. What parallels can we draw between the spiritual climate of Hosea's time and the world we live in today?

5. How does the theme of hope and restoration in Hosea encourage us in our personal walk with God, especially in times of failure or disobedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Kings 14-20 and 2 Chronicles 26-32
These passages provide historical accounts of the reigns of the kings mentioned in Hosea 1:1, offering insight into the political and spiritual climate of the time.

Amos and Isaiah
Contemporary prophets whose ministries overlapped with Hosea's, providing additional perspectives on the spiritual state of Israel and Judah.

Deuteronomy 28
The blessings and curses outlined here are relevant to Hosea's message, as Israel's disobedience leads to the consequences foretold in this chapter.