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In the history of the children of Israel we see the perverseness and ingratitude of man, and the forbearance and goodness of God. Israel's sins were peculiarly aggravated by their having been committed after repeated and wonderful deliverances, after signal chastisements and mercies. At the period of Hosea's prophecy Israel's continued rebellion against God had nearly exhausted His patience toward that people. Though these words were primarily addressed to Israel, we shall consider them —

I. AS CONVEYING A GRACIOUS EXHORTATION TO ALL SINNERS TO "RETURN UNTO THE LORD."

1. We must "return unto the Lord" with consideration. "Thus saith the Lord of hosts, Consider your ways."

2. With weeping and supplication. A proper review of our past follies and perverse wanderings, and of God's mercies and patience towards us, will produce sorrow of heart, will cause tears of compunction to flow.

3. With humility. Our lofty imaginations and high opinion of ourselves must be brought low.

4. Through the Mediator. We cannot expect to find mercy unless, we seek mercy through Christ. Of this righteousness, not our own, we must make mention.

5. Without delay. This may be urged from the shortness and uncertainty of life, and from the greatness of the work which we have to do.

II. AS DECLARING THE REASONABLENESS OF THE EXHORTATION. "For thou hast fallen by thine iniquity." The text is applicable to the case of backsliders who have fallen from their steadfastness. But all mankind have fallen from God. Adam fell, and in him fell all his posterity.

1. Man is fallen from the favour of God, and is under the displeasure of God.

2. Man is fallen under the dominion of sin and the curse of the law.

3. Man is fallen into the snares and power of the devil.

4. Man, if not recovered by Divine grace, will at last fall into the bottomless pit.Apply to those who are still in their fallen state, and are wandering from God.

1. Yield to the solemn and affecting truth that you have fallen by your iniquity, and let this truth stir you up to inquire with solicitude, "What must I do to be saved?"

2. Listen to God's gracious invitation, and believe His willingness to receive you.

3. Contemplate what has been done to accomplish the great work of your redemption.

4. Consider the awful doom of the finally impenitent transgressor.

(E. Edwards.)

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KJV: O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity.

WEB: Israel, return to Yahweh your God; for you have fallen because of your sin.