Hosea 5:1-15
Q.1. Who was mainly held responsible for the people’s demise? Why did God refuse to listen to Israel’s cries for help? – (Hos.5:1-7)
God accused the leaders – the priests, king, and princes of spreading a net to trap His people. Their treachery against God was not hidden from Him. As a consequence, the nation’s seeking after God would be futile – They will go with their flocks and herds to seek the Lord, but they will not find Him; He has withdrawn from them (Hos.5:6). Sadly, their lusts had captured them, and in pride they refused the warnings of God’s messengers.
Q.2. How had the leaders offended God? Under what conditions would the Lord restore His people? – (Hos.5:8-15)
The leaders had moved the boundaries and had made up their own rules, while rejecting God’s decrees (Hos.5:10). When their blessings disappeared, they turned to other nations and gods – all to no avail (Hos.5:13-14). Therefore, God had no option but to discipline them severely by removing Himself from them – I will go away and return to My place UNTIL they acknowledge their guilt and seek My face; In their affliction they will earnestly seek Me (Hos.5:15). Affliction would be their lot, until they turned from their sins to God.