Returning to God Amidst Moral Decay
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into Hosea 4, a chapter that speaks volumes about the state of our nation and the world. We began by acknowledging a recent event where an attempt was made on Donald Trump's life, which I believe was a divine intervention. This incident serves as a reminder that God can use anyone, even those we might consider imperfect, for His purposes. We must refrain from judging others and instead focus on our own walk with God.
The book of Hosea is a poignant illustration of God's relationship with Israel, likened to a marriage where Israel is the unfaithful spouse. Hosea's marriage to Gomer, a prostitute, symbolizes Israel's infidelity through idol worship. This narrative is a stark reminder of how far we can stray from God and the consequences that follow. Just as Israel turned to lifeless idols, our nation has turned away from the God who blessed it, filling the void with evil and wickedness.
We discussed the moral decay evident in our society today—cursing, lying, murder, stealing, and adultery. These sins are rampant, and our media and political systems often exacerbate the problem. The hatred and vitriol we see are symptoms of a deeper spiritual malaise. We are in a time where good is called evil, and evil is embraced as good. This is not just a political issue but a spiritual one, and it calls for a return to God.
Hosea's message was a warning to Israel about impending judgment due to their unfaithfulness. Similarly, we are warned today. The signs of the times indicate that we are nearing the end, and we must be prepared for the return of Jesus Christ. Despite the darkness, we have hope because God is able. He is able to make all grace abound to us, to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine, and to keep us from falling.
We concluded with a call to action: to be steadfast in our faith, to invest in our children by teaching them the Word of God, and to be honest with God about our struggles. We prayed for strength, for a renewed desire to read the Bible, and for the courage to stand firm in our faith.
### Key Takeaways
1. God Uses Imperfect People: The recent attempt on Donald Trump's life serves as a reminder that God can use anyone, regardless of their imperfections. Before judging others, we should reflect on our own lives and remember that Jesus has washed away our sins. God used Nebuchadnezzar, a pagan king, to fulfill His purposes, showing that He can use anyone for His divine plans. [33:51]
2. Spiritual Infidelity and Its Consequences: Hosea's marriage to Gomer symbolizes Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idol worship. This narrative serves as a warning to us today. Just as Israel turned to lifeless idols, our nation has turned away from God, filling the void with evil. The moral decay we see—cursing, lying, murder, stealing, and adultery—are symptoms of a deeper spiritual problem. [38:21]
3. The Importance of Teaching the Next Generation: We must invest in our children by teaching them the Word of God. This requires us to be steadfast in our own faith and to set an example. Many young people today have no knowledge of God because their parents did not live for God. We need to be their teachers and guide them in the ways of the Lord. [49:21]
4. The Signs of the Times: The moral and spiritual decay in our society is a sign that we are nearing the end times. The hatred, violence, and lawlessness we see are indicators of a world that has turned away from God. Despite this, we have hope because God is able to make all grace abound to us and to keep us from falling. [57:48]
5. Honesty with God and Spiritual Renewal: We must be honest with God about our struggles, whether it's a lack of desire to read the Bible or other spiritual weaknesses. God already knows our hearts, and when we confess and seek His help, He is faithful to transform us. We prayed for a renewed desire to read the Bible and for the strength to stand firm in our faith. [51:43]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[32:19] - Divine Intervention and Imperfect Vessels
[33:51] - God's Use of Nebuchadnezzar
[35:07] - The State of Our Nation
[36:16] - Hosea's Marriage as a Symbol
[38:21] - Spiritual Infidelity and Idolatry
[39:15] - America's Departure from God
[41:05] - The Sanctity of Life
[42:44] - Abortion as Birth Control
[44:17] - Hosea's Warning to Israel
[45:51] - The Coming Judgment
[47:36] - The Importance of Genuine Faith
[49:21] - Teaching the Next Generation
[50:09] - Personal Honesty with God
[51:43] - Spiritual Renewal
[52:29] - The Role of Media and Politics
[54:26] - The Rise of Hatred and Violence
[55:26] - Lawlessness and Anarchy
[57:48] - Signs of the End Times
[59:23] - The Threat to Israel
[01:01:17] - The Role of the Antichrist
[01:04:49] - Control and Persecution
[01:06:22] - Environmental and Societal Decay
[01:08:20] - Resistance to Authority
[01:09:42] - The Root of All Problems
[01:11:24] - The Importance of Parental Authority
[01:14:49] - The Role of Government
[01:15:57] - False Doctrine in the Church
[01:17:32] - Anti-Semitism and Replacement Theology
[01:20:13] - Misinterpretation of Scripture
[01:22:27] - The Hope We Have in God
[01:23:14] - God is Able
[01:24:02] - Call to Action
[01:25:26] - Praying for Leaders
[01:27:26] - Assurance of Salvation
[01:29:02] - Prayer for Spiritual Renewal
[01:31:18] - Invitation to Accept Christ
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Hosea 4:1-3 (NIV)
2. 2 Corinthians 9:8 (NIV)
3. Ephesians 3:20 (NIV)
#### Observation Questions
1. What specific sins does Hosea 4:1-3 mention that were prevalent in Israel?
2. According to the sermon, how does Hosea's marriage to Gomer symbolize Israel's relationship with God?
3. What recent event was mentioned in the sermon as an example of divine intervention?
4. How does 2 Corinthians 9:8 describe God's ability to provide for us?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Hosea 4:1-3 lists several sins that were rampant in Israel. How do these sins compare to the moral issues mentioned in the sermon that are present in our society today?
2. The sermon mentioned that God can use imperfect people for His purposes. How does the story of Nebuchadnezzar illustrate this point?
3. The sermon emphasized the importance of teaching the next generation about God. Why is this crucial, and what might be the consequences of failing to do so?
4. In Ephesians 3:20, Paul speaks of God's ability to do immeasurably more than we ask or imagine. How does this verse provide hope in the context of the moral and spiritual decay discussed in the sermon?
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the recent event involving Donald Trump mentioned in the sermon. How can we apply the lesson of God using imperfect people in our own lives and interactions with others?
2. Hosea's marriage to Gomer was a symbol of Israel's unfaithfulness. Are there "idols" in your life that are drawing you away from God? What steps can you take to remove these distractions?
3. The sermon highlighted the importance of teaching the next generation about God. How can you actively invest in the spiritual education of your children or younger people in your community?
4. The sermon mentioned the signs of the end times and the moral decay in society. How can you remain steadfast in your faith amidst these challenges?
5. The pastor encouraged honesty with God about our struggles, including a lack of desire to read the Bible. What specific steps can you take this week to cultivate a renewed interest in reading Scripture?
6. The sermon called for prayer for strength and courage to stand firm in faith. How can you incorporate more intentional prayer into your daily routine?
7. Reflect on 2 Corinthians 9:8 and Ephesians 3:20. How can these verses inspire you to trust in God's provision and power in your current circumstances?
Devotional
Day 1: God Uses Imperfect People
God can use anyone, regardless of their imperfections, to fulfill His divine purposes. The recent attempt on Donald Trump's life serves as a reminder that we should not judge others but focus on our own walk with God. Just as God used Nebuchadnezzar, a pagan king, to accomplish His plans, He can use anyone, no matter how flawed they may seem. This teaches us to reflect on our own lives and remember that Jesus has washed away our sins. We are all vessels for God's work, and He can use us in ways we might not expect. [33:51]
Daniel 4:34-35 (ESV): "At the end of the days I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my reason returned to me, and I blessed the Most High, and praised and honored him who lives forever, for his dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom endures from generation to generation; all the inhabitants of the earth are accounted as nothing, and he does according to his will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand or say to him, 'What have you done?'"
Reflection: Think of someone you have judged harshly. How can you change your perspective and see them as a potential vessel for God's work?
Day 2: Spiritual Infidelity and Its Consequences
Hosea's marriage to Gomer symbolizes Israel's unfaithfulness to God through idol worship. This narrative serves as a warning to us today. Just as Israel turned to lifeless idols, our nation has turned away from God, filling the void with evil. The moral decay we see—cursing, lying, murder, stealing, and adultery—are symptoms of a deeper spiritual problem. We must recognize that these issues are not just societal but spiritual, and they call for a return to God. [38:21]
Hosea 4:1-2 (ESV): "Hear the word of the Lord, O children of Israel, for the Lord has a controversy with the inhabitants of the land. There is no faithfulness or steadfast love, and no knowledge of God in the land; there is swearing, lying, murder, stealing, and committing adultery; they break all bounds, and bloodshed follows bloodshed."
Reflection: Identify one area in your life where you have turned away from God. What steps can you take today to return to Him?
Day 3: The Importance of Teaching the Next Generation
We must invest in our children by teaching them the Word of God. This requires us to be steadfast in our own faith and to set an example. Many young people today have no knowledge of God because their parents did not live for God. We need to be their teachers and guide them in the ways of the Lord. By doing so, we ensure that the next generation grows up with a strong foundation in faith, capable of withstanding the moral and spiritual challenges of our time. [49:21]
Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV): "And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise."
Reflection: How can you incorporate teaching moments about God into your daily interactions with your children or younger people in your life?
Day 4: The Signs of the Times
The moral and spiritual decay in our society is a sign that we are nearing the end times. The hatred, violence, and lawlessness we see are indicators of a world that has turned away from God. Despite this, we have hope because God is able to make all grace abound to us and to keep us from falling. We must remain vigilant and prepared for the return of Jesus Christ, living our lives in a way that reflects our faith and readiness for His coming. [57:48]
2 Timothy 3:1-5 (ESV): "But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people."
Reflection: What signs of moral and spiritual decay do you see around you? How can you be a beacon of hope and faith in these times?
Day 5: Honesty with God and Spiritual Renewal
We must be honest with God about our struggles, whether it's a lack of desire to read the Bible or other spiritual weaknesses. God already knows our hearts, and when we confess and seek His help, He is faithful to transform us. We prayed for a renewed desire to read the Bible and for the strength to stand firm in our faith. By being transparent with God, we open ourselves to His transformative power, allowing Him to renew our spirits and strengthen our faith. [51:43]
Psalm 51:10-12 (ESV): "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit."
Reflection: What is one spiritual struggle you are facing today? How can you bring this struggle to God in prayer and seek His help for renewal?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Remember, God uses people who are imperfect. And before we start to judge people on their imperfection, look at yourself. Look at yourself. What are you guilty of? Thank the Lord you're not guilty anymore, because Jesus took, through his blood, has washed away your sins. But we don't judge sinners." [33:51] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We are to be people who present the light. God can use anybody. He used Nebuchadnezzar, didn't he? In a sovereign way. And through that, God even personally led him, even though in his sovereignty he used this evil, wicked king that was a total pagan to institute discipline on Israel." [34:10] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And today we live in a time when we have walked. Away from the God who blessed this country early on. Not everybody that was the founders of our nations were Christians. But many were. Many who signed the Declaration of Independence were pastors. Christian pastors at the time. Born again people." [38:21] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And so we see. nation that is really, really hurting. And we're seeing a little bit of the fruit. I'm not saying this is the worst thing that's ever happened. It's a horrible thing. But it symbolizes what's really going on. The disease in our nation. Because we see the hatred and vitriol that is within our government towards people." [40:10] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And so, listen, understand this, guys. Christians, there may be some things that pierce your heart today. And you're being pierced in your heart by God, the Holy Spirit. And take that to your heart and deal with it as you decide. But this is, again, this is not a condemnation of Christians. But it is the way of our world." [47:36] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Hosea had a very unusual home life. And it wasn't that he was in disobedience. He was obeying God in whom he married. And God told him and asked him to marry a prostitute named Gomer because God was going to sovereignly use that marriage as an example of his marriage to Israel." [36:16] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "And Jose's main ministry was to get the people ready for the coming judgment on the northern kingdom. And that would be God sovereignly causing the Assyrians to come and to attack the northern kingdom and take it into bondage in Assyria." [44:17] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And so understanding that this is speaking in context to Israel. Okay, do we get that? This is talking in context to Israel. But we can still glean from this that God warning this nation, because some of these truths are universal truths. That if we are being unfaithful to our God, if we're turning our backs against God and going the opposite, that there will be judgment." [45:51] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And so, listen, we think it's lawbreakers and, you know, lawbreaking is no big deal. Everybody else does it. We're not going to do it. Hey, we are living in a society now where the structure of law and order is crumbling. Guys, when you vote, when you get out and vote, why don't you think about who is for law and order?" [01:14:49] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Guys, let's get busy because God is able. No matter how bad and how dark things are, your work needs to go on because God has chosen you to represent him. You are ambassador, an ambassador of Christ. He speaks to the world through you." [01:24:02] (22 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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