In chapter 1, we saw God use allegories to describe Israel’s plight and redemption. In chapter 2, we see allegories again with both plight and redemption. Sometimes words are not enough to get us to see the truth. Here God is using word pictures to get Israel’s attention.
After three children and living with Hosea for several years, Gomer decided she was bored and had enough so she decided it was time to party. There were plenty of men around who would pay for her favors so she was willing to try it on her own.
Now we find Hosea having to manage a household with three children, and we have no idea how old they were or whether there was additional help and supervision; these things are left to our imagination. Evidently, Jezreel was old enough that God used him in this allegory. “O Jezreel, rename your brother and sister” because God would not hold them responsible for the actions of their mother.
We, of course, know that God is speaking to Hosea about what to write, but God understands that while Gomer and the people of Israel may not listen to their husband or God, but they are more likely to listen to the pleas of their children. “Plead with your mother, for she has become another man’s wife – I am no longer her husband. Beg her to stop her harlotry, to quit giving herself to others. If she doesn’t. . .”
In verses 3-13, God went on to explain the terrible consequences if she didn’t repent and change her and their ways. God told the people their other gods gave them nothing – everything they ever had came from Him. Now we turn from plight to redemption.
Part of the remainder (verses 14-17) may be going on now. “I will court her again and bring her into the wilderness, and I will speak to her tenderly there.” I think this description of the wilderness was what Israel found in 1948. But beginning with verse 18, the words sound like the environment of Eden before the fall. “At that time, I will make a treaty between you and the wild animals, birds, and snakes, not to fear each other anymore; and I will destroy all weapons, and all war will end. Then you will lie down in peace and safety, unafraid; and I will bind you to Me forever with chains of righteousness and justice and love and mercy.” Is this not our picture of eternal life?