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"Your fruit is found in Me"

Text: Hosea 14:8

FRUIT-BEARING LIES WITH THE LORD

One day, Israel would realize that ultimately, bearing fruit is from the LORD God.

“Ephraim shall say, ‘What have I to do anymore with idols?’
I have heard and observed him.
I am like a green cypress tree;
Your fruit is found in Me.”
Hosea 14:8

1. “Ephraim”

a) This is not a reference to the tribe, in this context.

b) It is a reference to the nation of Israel.

2. “What have I to do anymore with idols?”

a) The nation would reject idolatry forever.

b) This sin had cost the nation everything:

i) Rejection of the LORD.

ii) Turning to sin and wickedness.

iii) Countless loss of lives through needless wars.

3. “I have heard and observed him”

a) The LORD continues to watch over Israel.

i) He would hear how they would speak of their faith in Him.

ii) He would observe their behavior.

b) The fruit of true repentance must be seen.

i) There would be a turning away from sins.

ii) There would be a returning to the LORD their God.

4. “I am like a green cypress tree”

a) The cypress tree was often seen as a symbol of death.

i) If pruning is done carelessly.

ii) The tree would die easily.

b) The green cypress tree represents new life.

5. “Your fruit is found in Me”

a) This was sent out as an important reminder to Israel.

b) Ultimately, fruitfulness comes from the LORD! (Psalms 1, 92)