Hosea 1: Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

Hosea's family life serves as a powerful but potentially problematic metaphor for Israel's unfaithfulness to God.

The opening chapter of Hosea depicts a prophetic sign act in which God commands the prophet to take a "wife of prostitution" (NRSVUE) and have children. While symbolic actions often involve temporary dramatic activities – one might remember Isaiah walking around naked or Jeremiah wearing a yoke – Hosea is called to symbolize his prophetic message personally and familially. Similarly, Jeremiah will later be commanded not to marry (Jeremiah 16:1-2), while Ezekiel will be commanded not to mourn the death of his wife (Ezekiel 24:15-25). The divine command to Hosea is intended to shock the audience, which would not associate a holy person of God, a prophet, with promiscuity.

See my Working Preacher essay for more information.

Commentary on Hosea 1:2-10 - Working Preacher from Luther Seminary

A powerful but potentially problematic metaphor.

Working Preacher from Luther SeminaryTyler Mayfield

A Benediction (Or Miscellaneous Thoughts)

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