Yesterday, Hosea used the story of the patriarch Jacob to describe the people of Israel in his own day. Jacob sought to deceive and manipulate, rather than wait on God. He suffered the consequences (estrangement from his brother and exile away from the land). But still he encountered God, struggled with him, and was restored.

Israel are in the same position, trying to get ahead their own way (deceitful exploitation of others, and unwise alliances with foreign tyrants) rather than waiting on God. They will experience the consequences; in particular, exile. Yet in the midst of this struggle, Hosea urged them to seek God (like Jacob did).

Today, the indictment of Israel’s deception continues.

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We finished last week’s look at Hosea 4-11 on a positive note: God, depicted as a loving parent, unable to completely reject his rebellious son (despite the fact that he deserves it). Chapter 11 ended with the promise of restoration:

Beginning with chapter 12, however, Hosea resumes his negative tone. This begins the third major section of the book, which we’ll study all this week. Here, he describes Israel’s rebellion using the imagery of their ancestor, Jacob. In effect, he’s telling the people of Israel: you’re acting just like your dad.

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