Hosea 7:13
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Hosea 7:13
13 Woe unto them! for they have fled from me: destruction unto them! because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me.
Chapter Context
Hosea 7 is a prophetic oracle chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of judgment, obedience, hope. Written during the final years of the northern kingdom (c. 755-710 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Israel faced imminent threat from Assyria while engaging in Canaanite religious syncretism.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-16: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Hosea and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Hosea 7:13
13 Woe unto them! for they have fled from me: destruction unto them! because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me.
Analysis
Woe unto them! for they have fled from me: destruction unto them! because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me.' Double pronouncement: 'woe' and 'destruction' for those who fled from and transgressed against God. The painful irony: 'though I redeemed them' (from Egypt), 'they spoke lies against me' (false teaching about God's character/requirements). Ingratitude after redemption merits severe judgment. This demonstrates covenant unfaithfulness: experiencing redemption, then denying Redeemer. Only those who acknowledge Christ's redemption and remain faithful avoid this woe.
Historical Context
God redeemed Israel from Egypt (Exodus), established covenant, provided for them - yet they claimed Baal redeemed them and gave provision (2:5, 8). This lying about God's character and works constituted ultimate ingratitude. Modern parallel: professing Christians who deny biblical truth about God or claim other sources for what God provides. Speaking lies against God includes false teaching about His character, denying His works, or attributing His gifts to other sources. Such ingratitude despite experienced redemption invites judgment.
Reflection
- In what ways might I 'speak lies' against God despite experiencing His redemption?
- How does ingratitude after redemption demonstrate the depth of covenant unfaithfulness and invite judgment?
Word Studies
- Redeem: גָּאַל (Gaal) H6299 - To redeem, act as kinsman-redeemer
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Hosea 9:12, 11:12