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Hosea 8:11-14

 Last time we saw that this 'eagle' (or 'vulture') is circling above the house of Israel.
Why?
It's not because the places of worship were empty (see 8:2)
It's not because the sacrifices weren't being offered at the altar (see 8:11)
A full church and offerings & worship being expressed would seem like a sign of life... but it's actually a sign of death & decay, as far as God is concerned.
Read verse 13 and really let the words sink in...


This section reveals that the people spoke the words (but there was no goodness in them) and brought their offerings (but there was no change in their behaviour). How do you see this playing out in these verses?


How does Hosea 8:14 remind you of Hosea 2:13?


There is an obvious link with the words used by the prophet Hosea and the words of Jesus found in Matthew 23:23-28.
How does Jesus feel about this kind of religious hypocrisy?


Genuine and heart-felt repentance is what God looks for.
Not your words, but your life: not your singing on a Sunday, but your obedience a Monday - Saturday.
Think about what this means for your walk with Jesus.
How might Spirit be calling you to be real on the inside as well as on the outside?


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