Connect Hosea 3:2 with Christ's redemptive work on the cross. Hosea’s Costly Purchase - “So I bought her for fifteen shekels of silver and a homer and a lethech of barley.” (Hosea 3:2) - Hosea steps into a slave market and pays a measurable, public ransom for Gomer. - The payment combines silver and grain—currency and sustenance—tangible proof that love is willing to absorb real cost. A Living Parable of Redemption - Hosea’s act embodies God’s steadfast love toward an unfaithful people. - Gomer contributes nothing to her rescue; she is simply bought back. - The prophet’s purchase foreshadows a greater Redeemer who will pay a higher price. From Hosea’s Coins to Christ’s Cross - Hosea’s silver and barley point ahead to a ransom “not with perishable things such as silver or gold… but with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18-19). - Hosea redeems one woman; Jesus redeems multitudes, “a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). - Hosea’s payment restores a broken marriage covenant; Jesus’ blood inaugurates the new covenant foretold in Jeremiah 31:31-34. - Hosea’s love is costly but finite; Christ’s sacrifice is infinite, satisfying divine justice once for all (Hebrews 10:10). Scripture Echoes of the Same Theme • Isaiah 53:5 – the Servant “was pierced for our transgressions” • 1 Corinthians 6:20 – “you were bought at a price” • Titus 2:14 – He “gave Himself for us to redeem us” • Revelation 5:9 – “by Your blood You purchased for God” What the Price Reveals - Love values the unlovely. Christ died “while we were still sinners” (Romans 5:8). - Redemption is substitutionary. Someone else pays so the captive goes free (1 Timothy 2:6). - The cross announces finality: “In Him we have redemption through His blood” (Ephesians 1:7). Living in the Light of Redemption • Grateful Worship – Respond like the heavenly chorus, declaring “Worthy is the Lamb” (Revelation 5:12). • Holy Obedience – Since we are bought, our bodies and choices belong to Him (1 Corinthians 6:20). • Faithful Love – Reflect covenant faithfulness in marriages, friendships, and church life, mirroring the Redeemer’s heart. • Hopeful Witness – Share the good news that the purchase price has been paid in full; freedom is offered to all who believe. Conclusion: The Cost that Sets Us Free - Hosea counted out silver and grain; Jesus poured out His own life. - Hosea brought Gomer home; Jesus brings the redeemed into everlasting fellowship. - The prophet’s marketplace scene invites every believer to rest in the finished work of the cross—fully paid, eternally secure. |
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