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I WILL LOVE THEM FREELY

Text: Hosea 14
21 November 2010

(I) A WONDERFUL DECLARATION OF GOD’S LOVE

“I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely, for My anger has turned away from him.” Hosea 14:4

1. Promise of love despite backsliding

2. Promise of love that has no restrictions (“freely”)

3. Promise of love despite the righteous anger of God

(II) CONTEXT OF THIS GLORIOUS DECLARATION OF GOD’S LOVE

1. Backsliding of Israel

a) Turning to idolatry ( Hosea 1:2 )

b) Great lawlessness ( Hosea 4:2 )

c) Stubbornness ( Hosea 4:16 )

d) Arrogance ( Hosea 5:5 )

e) Transgression of Covenant ( Hosea 6:7 )

2. Anger of the Lord

a) Lo Ruhammah “No more mercy” ( Hosea 1:6 )

b) Lo Ammi “Not My people” ( Hosea 1:9 )

3. God’s Faithful love for Israel

a) From childhood

“When Israel was a child, I loved him…” Hosea 11:1

“I taught Ephraim to walk, taking them by their arms…” Hosea 11:3

b) Deep emotions

“My heart churns within Me; My sympathy is stirred…” Hosea 11:8

c) Covenant-God

“But I am the LORD your God, ever since the land of Egypt…” Hosea 12:9

(III) PROMISES GIVEN IN LOVE

1. Promise of help

“Your help is from Me…” Hosea 13:9

2. Deliverance

“I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death” Hosea 13:14

3. Healing of backsliding

“I will heal their backsliding” Hosea 14:4a

4. Another chance to make a Fresh start

“I will be like dew to Israel; He shall grow like the lily, and lengthen his roots like Lebanon. His branches shall spread; His beauty shall be like an olive tree, and his fragrance like Lebanon.” Hosea 14:5-6