Jeff Chamblee The Bible. It's the word of God. Sharper than any two edged sword. This sacred book is living and active and contains all that's needed for life and godliness. Stay with American Family Radio for the next hour as we study God's word and take your Bible questions. Welcome to Exploring the Word.
Alex McFarland Come, let us return to the Lord. He has torn us to pieces, but he will heal us. That is from Hosea 6 and we are in the Old Testament book of Hosea. Today we invite you to get a copy of God's Word and turn and follow along with us. Alex McFarland here along with Bert Harper. And Bert, before we go too much farther into Hosea, I've got to tell you the great privilege I have tonight. May I share something with you?
Bert Harper I want to hear this. Go ahead.
Alex McFarland Well, I am in a place called Florence, South Carolina. Now a few weeks ago I was in Florence, Alabama and we are going to be there next fall. But I am in Florence, South Carolina and tonight I have the great privilege of speaking at an event for Child Evangelism Fellowship. Are you familiar with that ministry? You
Bert Harper better believe. We've interviewed them several times on exploring missions. What a ministry they have. Alex. This is good news, brother.
Alex McFarland Amen. well, And I love CEF Child Evangelism Fellowship because when she was in about second grade through one of the good news clubs, Angie McFarland, my wife, heard the gospel and came to Jesus as a little girl through cef. Amen. So we love that ministry and I'm looking forward to speaking for him tonight.
Bert Harper Child Evangelism and then fellowship of Christian Athletes. They're still active in doing work, and they're aiding the church. Not taking the place, but aiding the church and carrying out the Great Commission and discipleship. Alex, can I pray for you in that meeting now?
Alex McFarland Yes. Lead us.
Bert Harper Father, I thank you for Alex and I thank you for the Evangelism Fellowship of her children. Father, what a difference they've made in so many people's lives, including Angie's. And I thank you that, Father, that Alex is able to go there and to share and to be a part of that. And may they be encouraged, may they be challenged. And we ask that you would continue to use them for your glory and your honor in carrying out the Great Commission. In Jesus name, Amen.
Alex McFarland Amen. Thank you, Bert. Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Well, you know, Hosea, we're right in there and it's going by quickly and yesterday we talked about, some of God's judgment. But even in spite of Israel's unrepentance and backslidings, God is, he's redemptive. And he wants to restore, doesn't he?
Bert Harper He really does. And that is the good news. We're going to start today with a verse that's part of the other part, but it kind of stands. chapter four, verse 11. Listen to this, Alex. Harlotry, wine and you wine, enslave the heart. Again, that stands. That's a statement that does stand alone. But it's also adding to what the people were doing for the lack of knowledge. Turning away from God. And the priests not living up to their calling, the prophets not doing what God had called them to do. And what happens when. When this happens? The heart is enslaved. Addiction becomes a part of it. And so here it is. And so what do they do? My people? Ask counsel from their wooden idols. And their staff informs them, for the spirit of harlotry has caused them to stray. And they have played the harlot against their God. Again. Now, again, he's using this in a combination. I believe he's talking about idolatry. But again here in verse 11. Harlotry, wine and new wine enslave the. They do that, ah, as the physical part. Physically, they do that. But when you're looking for answers here, and that's the reason I wanted to come here, ask counsel. When you're asking counsel, you're looking for answers. Answers that are true, answers that are real. And they're looking in all the wrong places, aren't they?
Alex McFarland Well, they are. And notice how, carnality, physical, sin always leads to spiritual sin.
Bert Harper Always.
Alex McFarland Harlotry, wine, new wine. But then they get to divination. Asking counsel from wooden idols. Their staff informs them, not employees, not that kind of staff, but like a stick and letting it fall on the ground and try to, you know, divine wisdom from some physical object rather than prayer. And it says, and this is it. they have played the harlot against God, offering sacrifices on mountaintops, burn incense on the hills under oaks, poplars and terebinths. Now that's a type of a tree, a terebinth tree, because their shade is good. In other words, just sitting in the shade. Bert, did you ever hear the old saying, idle, hands are the devil's workshop?
Bert Harper Yes, I did. And there's a word that we couldn't use when I was a boy. bored. B O R E D. If we. If we use that word with my daddy I want to just tell you, being on the farm, there were plenty of things to do, and we. If we weren't going to do it, we were now, if we use that term. So. Yeah. Idle, idle hands and an idle mind. They're dangerous places and dangerous things, aren't they?
Alex McFarland Yeah. I have to say, if. If my sister or I ever said. Of course I never did. I don't. By God's grace, I don't think I've ever been bored. But if we had said, we're bored, my dad would have said, oh, I can cure that
Bert Harper with a board.
Alex McFarland Yeah. Or with some chores.
Bert Harper Yeah. One or the other.
Alex McFarland Yes. And let me just say this. Sin and backsliding and carnality, it affects the children. Therefore, your daughters commit harlotry. Your brides commit adultery. You know, a bride should be, as they say, pure as the driven snow. But no, there's just sin throughout. and the men themselves go apart with harlots and offer sacrifices with a ritual harlot. In other words, this is habitual sin. Therefore, people who do not understand it will be trampled. it's just the destructive. Well, you, know, sin and the grave are never satisfied. Jon Piper, years ago, the radio preacher, he said, too many of us are in the business of sin management rather than repentance, and sin will manage you. And Israel learned that the hard way.
Bert Harper They did. Now, I want to go back, not to study, but to remind everyone. Notice what it starts out in chapter four, he says, a, charge against the inhabitants of the land. This is like a courtroom. This is the charge. The overall charge is in verse one, there's no truth or mercy or knowledge of God in the land. That's kind of like the broad charge. And then verse two, all the way through what we're reading, all the way in verse 19 when it finished. They give specific examples of those charges. Alex. And here it is, as you said, harlotry is a part of their. And though you, Israel, play the harlot. Verse 15. Let not Judah offend. Do not come up to Gilgal, nor go to Beth Aven. And we want to come back to that. Nor swear an oath saying, as the Lord lives. In other words, don't bring God in it. But what does Gilgal and. Okay, Beth Aven. it changed its name a little bit. The original two places in the northern kingdom that Jeroboam I set up to worship were what two places? Gilgal and Bethel. And he says, you're still going those you're not doing the right place. You're not worshiping the right God. You don't have the right priest. You don't have the right commandments. You're living your own life. But it's interesting, this Beth haven Bethel meant originally house of God. Beth haven means house of idolatry or wickedness. And so here is, Hosea. I don't know if you'd say a play on the word or not, but it's no longer a house of God, but it's a house of wickedness. It makes me think of what Jesus said in the NewSong Testament. In place of my house being a house of prayer, you've made it a den of thieves. So, Alex, we don't need to let our life become something different than the temple of God. We need to let God have his reign in our lives, don't we?
Alex McFarland We do. We do. And, you know, Gilgal and Beth aven not a haven h a v e n like a place of rest, but it's a v e n which was a hotbed of idolatry, sadly. And, so, you know, Gilgal had been a good place. It was prominent in Elijah and Elisha. But Beth aven a place of idolatry, verse 16. Israel is stubborn, like a stubborn calf. Now the Lord will let them forage like a lamb in open country. The word forage, f o r a g e is like searching but not finding. You know, you're out scavenging for food. Yeah, like a lamb in open country. Ephraim is joined to idols, or let him alone. Their drink is rebellion. Our drink should be water to nourish us. Well, what are they? They're nourishing themselves on rebellion. They commit harlotry continually. Her rulers dearly love dishonor. The wind has wrapped her up in its wings. and they shall be ashamed because of their sacrifices. you know, Mark Twain said, man is the only creature that blushes and the only one that really needs to, here. Israel should be ashamed because of their sacrifices, which are not, sacrifice and worship to the true and living God, but they are, in other words, religiously following sin.
Bert Harper That's what they're doing. Go back, if we could, to verse 17. Ephraim, that is the largest tribe in the northern kingdom. And, a lot of times Hosea and some others, they will use Ephraim as the example for the whole, country there. But again, being the largest leadership, like here in America with the elections coming up, and we're going to pray Again today, God do a great work. we're praying that you would do that. But, you know, the larger states like Texas, California, NewSong York, and I know that Chicago, there's others. How many representatives they have in the House of Representatives? their senators seem to, you know, since they represent so many people, a lot of times they're given recognition. And Ephraim was like that. But listen, he is joined to idols. Now, look at those last three words in verse 17. Leave him alone. Now, who is he speaking to? if you'll look back, in verse 15, though Israel play the harlot, let not Judah offend. In other words, the prophets from the south, and, they're going their way. Their determination of destruction has already happened. Now, that's the country. It doesn't mean individuals could come out from and get right with God. That's always the case. But far as the Northern kingdom, their destruction is set. Let him alone. That's some of the saddest words in the world, Alex. They've already gone too far. Let him alone. That's. Yeah, that's pretty detrimental, isn't it?
Alex McFarland Well, you know, it's like in the book of Romans where it says God gave them up, the people that were, so given, you know, to sin. And I'll just say it, you know, there in Romans 1:28, it's homosexual, sin. God gives them over or lets them go to a reprobate mind, because they can no longer tell good from evil. And I think about it now, and look, Jesus loves people, and whosoever will may come. But I mean, we've got people with all the strength they can muster defending homosexuality, transgenderism, abortion. Can't even say that women carry babies saying men can get pregnant. I mean, people are either knowingly standing for what's false, or God has let them go to the point that they just can't even tell reality anymore. And that is a dangerous place to be in because, Bert, you know, it says, Ephraim, is joined to idols. Let him alone. In verse 17 of Hosea 4, they don't even know that they can no longer tell right from wrong.
Bert Harper It goes back to 2nd Corinthians 4. 4. The enemy Satan has blinded their minds. They can't even think straight. They can't see. And therefore they repeat all these things. That's got them into trouble. They continue that path. We'll be back with more of Hosea right after this break. Hello, I'm Bert Harper. Did you know that this Content is listener supported. Without people like you, this podcast would not exist. That's why we need you. A generous monthly gift of any amount will sustain American Family Radio and specifically this podcast. Please consider becoming a monthly financial partner today by visiting afr.net give that's afr.net gift.
Dr. Jessica Peck Sing everything I need. Everything I need. My father hasn't, My father hasn't. And every single time, the Lord will provide. That's right, my father hasn't. It's my father. What
Bert Harper a father he is. He's a good, good father. If you don't know him, please come to know him. Today, I was talking to a guy that's sitting across from me and he is talking about how God has just changed his life. I'm, talking about Brent Austin, our producer. We were just, we had church earlier today, Alex, just rejoicing what God has done in our lives and praising him for who he is. And we want every listener to know this. And so that's why we are passionate about the word of God and coming to Christ. We're in Hosea, chapter five. Now, notice how it starts out. Hear this, O priest, again. Now he's bringing this statement. It's kind of like, now I've told you the charges, I've been specific. Now listen to what I'm saying. I want to close this out and you to understand. And he says, hear this. Now, I'm skipping down and that doesn't mean we'll have to skip these, but verse three, for listen to this, I know Ephraim again, that's another name for all of the northern kingdom. And Israel is not hidden from me for now. O Ephraim, you commit harlotry. Israel is defiled. They do not direct their deeds toward turning to their God. For the spirit of harlotry is in their midst and they do not know the Lord. The pride of Israel testifies to his face. Therefore, Israel and Ephraim stumble in their iniquity. Judah also stumbles with them. Now, Alex, verse four speaks loudly and we're talking about them. They're just going their way. They had sinned prophets, but they had not listened. God would send messages. he would help them to want them to turn from the Lord. But listen to verse four. They do not direct their deeds toward turning to their God. Why? For the spirit of harlotry is in their midst and they do not know the Lord. Alex, going back to Romans, chapter one, when you combine these two chapters, chapter four and chapter five to the book of Romans, chapter One and see how that downward spiral works. You see it here. When their hearts were turned away from God, when they started worshiping, and it says, the wine, the new wine, the harlotry again, their belief and behavior, they were going downward in a downward spiral. They do not direct their deeds toward turning to their God. Honestly, they're turning away from him, aren't they?
Alex McFarland they. They really are. You know, Bert, very often I've referenced, Elmer Townes and some of you that went to Liberty back in the day, Liberty University. The academic dean for many years was Elmer Towns. And he used to always say this, Bert, and it's a great saying. I don't think it was original with him, but Dr. Towns would always say, sow, a thought, reap an action. So an action, reap a habit. Sow a habit, reap a character. Sow a character, reap a destiny. You know, and when I read this and it says that the spirit of harlotry is within them, you know, I mean, I think about this. thoughts begat actions. The Bible says, as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. You know, and so whether it's lust or materialism or even, you know, anger and curse words or, you know, stealing or the horoscope, you know, it is vigilant to fill our mind with God's truth and then pursue with our life God's ways and God himself through Jesus Christ. Because these things, you know, when I read, read, verse four and following, they do not direct their deeds toward turning to God. So what are they turning to? Because, Bert, remember, Jesus said, if you don't stand with me, you will fall. So if they're not turning to God, what are they turning to? Well, all these sins, and I think about the spirit of harlotry. you don't want to have these spirits, and I mean, the mindset that leads to the actions, that's
Bert Harper demonic, isn't it, Alex? It
Alex McFarland is really
Bert Harper what he's referring to. Okay, I hated to interrupt, but it is demonic.
Alex McFarland It is. And it starts. Well, there's no small things when it comes to your character. And it comes to what you fixate on. Because, you know, what is a thought or an inclination today is going to be a lifestyle potentially destructive tomorrow, isn't it?
Bert Harper It really is. And that is the whole idea. Now, notice what comes in verse five. the pride of Israel. Listen, you can get to the root of all sin, and it's pride. I want my way. I want to do my thing. I Want more. Whatever it is, it is that pride. But notice the last part of verse 5. Judah also stumbles with him. Now, he's a prophet to the northern kingdom. That. That is what Jose is. But he includes Judah, the southern kingdom on it. Now, there they have gone as far as the northern kingdom. But he says they're stumbling too. They're there. And while he's preaching this to the Northern kingdom, he's having the southern kingdom say, you guys better listen as well. And I said this yesterday, so I'm going to say it again. I. I do. I not only repeat verses, that with words in the scriptures, sometimes I repeat my. But anyway, as France is going now, so shall we go, if we don't turn. And so here's what in France is burning, destruction and everything. But Judah also stumbles. Verse 6. With their flocks and herds they shall go to seek the Lord, but they will not find him. Why he has withdrawn himself from them. Now, what a statement. I want to compare that real quickly. I'll turn it back to you, Alex. Isaiah 59. Everybody knows this great passage. The Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, nor his ear heavy, that he cannot hear. But your iniquities have, separated you from God. And your sins have hidden his face from you. Now listen to this last line. So that he will not hear. He chooses not to hear. He chooses not to respond in a positive way. So here it says, he has withdrawn himself from them. Alex, again, we're talking about. Again, Romans chapter one. When you study this, study Romans one, and you'll see what's taking place. and it's not only true for an individual, it's true for a country as well, isn't it?
Alex McFarland Well, it really is. And that word withdrawn there is, ah, very, It should be a frightening word. You don't want God to withdraw from you. Let me just say this. And we've. I know I'm horribly repetitious, but some things are just worth repeating. Amen. you can't just come to God whenever you jolly well please. Because, you know, there's the world, the flesh and the devil. And if you're. If you're desiring God, you're thinking about the Lord and you want to get right with God. Well, that's the Holy Spirit drawing you. It's not the world, the flesh or the devil. And so if God, you know, and the word is C H A L, A T S, it, means to pull away and to draw back. And it's Almost like a soldier. I'm looking at one commentary. Turning and marching in a different direction. Okay, so, the time to respond to the overtures of the holy spirit. The minute you sense that your heart is thinking about God, well, that's God calling you. That's God making overtures. And how gracious it is that God would call us to Himself.
Bert Harper Verse 7 warns us. When you do this, right in the middle of verse seven, you have begotten pagan children. you know, listen, turn, make sure we're, you know, let me say it this way. a sermon is better seen than heard, especially in home. Let them see Christ in you, you grandparents, you, parents. Now, they can turn away, but let them see Christ in you and let them know that. That you're not. They're not being devoured by the enemy. Now, verses 8 through verse 12. Notice the term blow the ram's horn. I've got an announcement to make. This is kind of like the sentence. This is the verdict that comes against them. And it says, cry aloud at Beth Aven. There it is again. Look behind you, O Benjamin. Ephraim shall be desolate in the day of rebuke among the tribes of Israel. I make known what is sure. The prince of Judah are like those who remove a landmark. I will pour out my wrath on them like water. Ephraim is oppressed and broken in judgment because he willingly walked by their human precept. They willingly turned away from God and went their own way. Alex. Therefore, let me finish verse 12. Therefore I'll be to Ephraim like a moth, and the house, house of Judah like rottenness. Now, again, this is the judgment. This is what they've been in a trial. Remember, it started in chapter four, verse one. This is the charge. They gave the charge, they gave the evidence. They made the closing statement about. Listen, this is, you've withdrawn yourself. God's withdrawn from you. Now blow the trumpet. Judgment is coming. it does really go that way. Doesn't
Alex McFarland really does. And then, so they're thinking about, you know, we have, needs. We're going to go to the Assyrian, or the king for help. Verse 13. He is not able to cure you, not able to heal your sores. For I will be like a lion to Ephraim, A great lion to Judah. it is interesting. You know, it said that God, said I would be like a moth. What's that? Well, you know, it can be an aggravation, but it's something that you see, and it's gone away like rot to the people of Judah. Verse 12. But now in verse 14, God says He's going to be like a lion. lions are dangerous. I will carry them off with no one to rescue them. Then I will return to my lair until they have borne their guilt and seek my face. In their misery, they will earnestly seek me. Now, this sounds severe, but it's, out of love. God loves us enough. It's like Sheldon Vanliere Auken, the famous author who, speaking of how God sometimes at any cost will draw us to himself. A severe mercy. About 1978, that was the Christian book of the year. A severe mercy. And Bertrand, you know, that's just not the way the world thinks. The world thinks? Well, you know, God is like a kindly old grandfather up in the sky, and I can do just any which way. No, God cares about our soul. God cares about righteousness. And that's why he says, repent, you know, seek the Lord while he is near. but this is some pretty vivid language about the severity of their sin, but the depth of God's redemptive mercy. Bert, I've got to say one thing. I don't mean to go backwards here, but, you know, it talked about that, the people were in so much sin. verse seven. They gave birth, the King James says, to strange children. Some translations say illegitimate children. What does your translation say of Hosea 5, 7
Bert Harper pagan children that they have begotten. Pagan children? Yes.
Alex McFarland Let me just say this. whenever you see the word strange, the, way the King James renders it, there's warnings about the strange woman, the strange gods, and here, pagan or strange children. You know, Abraham Lincoln said, what's in the philosophy of the schoolroom in one generation is the lifestyle of the people in the streets in the next generation, Bert, we've seen. I've heard it probably hundreds of times. People say, I don't understand. My son's an atheist. We went to church a little bit growing up, and now my son's an agnostic or an atheist or some other religion. Listen, we so desperately need revival in America. There was an article in World magazine a few years ago about the graying of the American church. As in gray hair. Now, I know there are a lot of great churches that are winning children and youth to Christ and parents, too. But to a degree, Bert, we have seen a, falling away somehow. Another, over the last, say, 25 years, the baton did not get passed to the next generation of runners. Have you seen this? To a degree, Bert,
Bert Harper I have Seen it. I've observed it. And again. And they are those. Yeah. There's pockets in different areas, churches that are. Man, young people are going. And that's the reason Charlie Kirk, they hated him so much because he was raising the challenge, especially for young men, to return to that which God would have and marry and have children. Let God reign. And so. But let me go back a little bit. And this has to do a little bit of the history of American Family, Association, American Family Radio. Don Wildmon, one of the shows that he demonstrated and said, man, we need to do something, and it seems so mild now, was Threes Company. You remember that there was two. Two women and one man living in the same apartment. And the, manager didn't like that at all. And of course they would mock him, but they let it be known, okay. He played like he was a homosexual. And that made them, oh, well, okay. That means that's okay. They're going out. And what this. And again, Brother Don saw that and saw where it would lead to. And it has. We stood and we said, hey, we don't need to go that way. Stop. Don't go that way. We're trying to put red lights up to stop. Don't go this way. Don't follow this. But here's. You said it, a little bit about the generations. I heard it one say this way, what one generation laughs at, the next generation embraces. When you look at Three's Company, the laughter that. That brought in concerning homosexuality, that he wasn't. But they, you know, he was letting it be known. Laughter, laughter, laughter. And now embrace. And so here what you find out in verse seven, what that one generation accepted and the second generation absorbed. Embrace and then soar. That happened in this.
Alex McFarland Listen to this. Bert, when I really, really found Jesus, it was in 1985, I was 21 years old, and I began to work on, growing in the Lord. And I listened to the Christian radio stations. And I remember I was. One night I was down, in the barn. I was working on an old 66 Mustang, putting a rear end in a Mustang, laying on my back, listening to James Dobson. This is the fall of 85. And Dr. Dobson said, if we don't have a revival in America one day, the Supreme Court will legalize gay marriage and, transgenderism. And years later, I told Dr. Dobson the story. He said back in the day, he said, if anything, I wasn't forceful enough about it. But Don Wildmon, Chuck Colson, James Dobson, they were prophetic, weren't they.
Bert Harper They were. Hey, if you've got a Bible question, triple 858-98840. We would like to thank our sponsors, including PreBorn. PreBorn has rescued over 400,000 babies from abortion and has seen over 100,000 commitments to Christ. Will you join PreBorn in continuing this good work supporting young moms in crisis? Save a life today. Go to preborn.com afr.
Alex McFarland He lifts us up, doesn't he? His arms are outstretched. For you, my friend. Jesus is as close by as a prayer. Hey. Well, this is the part of the program on Exploring the Word where we answer your Bible questions. We love to hear from everybody. And that number. If you have a question, call in. You'll get through. We'll, give you a biblical answer. It's 888-589-8840. And Bert, where do we begin today?
Bert Harper Let's go to Louisiana and talk to Wayne. Wayne, thank you for calling Exploring the Word today. Go right ahead.
Caroline Yes, sir. Yeah, I just had a comment about the word atheist. You know, the word of God tells him that, the Lord is important to every man, the measure of faith. And we also read in the Old Testament that the fool has said in his heart there is no God, so there's really no such thing as a true atheist. And, they just don't want to be accountable for their actions.
Bert Harper Okay, let me tell you what our leader Tim Wildmon says says there. They, these people that you're talking about, Wayne. There is no God and we hate him.
Alex McFarland Yeah,
Bert Harper I think that, you know, they deny, but, I agree with Wayne. There's some.
Alex McFarland Yeah,
Bert Harper there's something there, isn't there, Alex?
Alex McFarland I think the caller is exactly right. In fact, some of the atheists that I've interviewed, they talk more about God than any preacher I know. And so I think deep down they know. Everybody knows. They just, for whatever sad reason, they don't want to be accountable to God. But, the greatest, you know, it's wonderful to be saved, to know that your sins are forgiven, to know that your name is written in the Lamb's book of life. But, Bert, don't you think one of the great, great privileges is to have a relationship with Jesus?
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland Yeah, we're going to go to heaven when we leave this world. That's wonderful. But Jesus is the friend who sticks closer than a brother. what a blessing that is,
Bert Harper that eternal life is not just quantity, it's quality. Okay. yeah, it's everlasting, but it's A life worth living. Didn't say it's easy. Didn't say, oh, man, got it made. No, it's a, it's. It's a trek and it's climbing some mountains, getting in some tight places, but it's an adventure worth taking. Trust Christ. Thank you, Wayne. Let's go to Illinois and talk to William. William, thank you for calling today.
Caroline Brothers, a comment on what was just said. When the devil got through with me, when I was in sin, I found out I sure was no atheist within. He made a believer out of me. But far as Illinois, There were only three counties in Illinois that voted against Mr. Trump. Main one is Chicago area, and a couple other counties. Illinois actually is not a blue state. It's just a corner of Illinois that's a blue state.
Bert Harper Yeah. William, I wanted to tell you these big cities, we're making this comment. We want to pray for our election. We're going to try to take time out to do that today, because they've called it two or three folks said we need to pray. And if you're going pray exploring the Word, a good place to do it. But these large cities like Atlanta in Georgia, Seattle in Washington, Portland in Oregon, as they go, so goes the state when it comes to the Senate elections. And so, we need to seek God. Alex, right now would be a good time just to pray. Would you mind leading us in prayer and saying, God, help us, help us.
Alex McFarland Thank you. Let's agree together in prayer, everybody. Father, in the name of Jesus. Lord, we give you glory. And we thank you for how you've blessed our nation, in the history of the world. America is so unique. And Lord, we know from the beginning, so much about our nation, comes right from the Bible. And we, I think about Proverbs 14:34, that righteousness exalts a nation, but sin will be a reproach or bringing, us down. And so, Lord, please preside in these elections. And Lord, down there in Texas, I pray that, Talarico loses in Jesus name. yes, Lord, not because we wish any ill. That man needs to be saved. He is. He's heaping your judgment on him. The way he twists scripture. I mean, he. His entire campaign has been so blasphemous because he's trying to pander to socialists, lesbians, transgender Marxists, abortionists. And Lord, so many running, we just pray, Lord, that you would let the Republicans retain both houses of Congress. And Lord, we just believe that, our nation can be restored. And I pray in the name of Jesus that God fearing people will get elected. And they're saying so many of these races, it's over. No, it is not over, Lord. the Bible says that the king's heart is in the Lord's hand like the rivers of water. He turns it whithersoever he will. So, Father God, please, for the glory of your name, would you help our nation preside over these elections, Rule and overrule. And we continue to pray. We thank you in advance and come what may, we worship you, we serve you, we look to you and our hope, our, trust. Everything, is in you, Jesus, and we lift it up to you. In your name we pray. Amen.
Bert Harper Thank you, Alex. Thank you, William. Let's go to Mississippi. And it's James. James, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Yes, I was just calling and asked to ask a question. What is usually the problem when you feel very saved sometimes and very unsaved sometimes? Okay,
Bert Harper okay, James. There. Satan, those of us that are believers. Satan wants to make us doubt. He is a liar. he is one that can really sell you a bill of goods saying, what if not now. But you go back and you look, God says concerning himself, that he is Jesus, is Lord, that we are to turn from our way and turn to him. That's what the whole idea. There's a way that seems right to a man, but the end thereof is the ways of death. If man goes his way, Alex, to get right with God, they have to turn to God, don't they?
Alex McFarland They do. They do. And, let me say this. You, know, knowing that you're saved, the assurance of salvation, we've shared it so many times. I think about, like 1st Jon 5:13, these things are written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. But, Bert, I think about First Jon, chapter three, where it says, by this we know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him. Listen to this. First Jon 3:18. For whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart and knows everything. Now, if you're under conviction and you're not sure that you've ever accepted Christ, then by all means, whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:13. But. But if you know that you've accepted Christ and yet you're worried and doubting, give yourself permission to rest in Jesus and to know. And somebody asked Charles Spurgeon one time Bert and Spurgeon, he was a great Christian leader in the late 1800s. Somebody said, you know, well, you're rather presumptuous. You said that, you know, you're saved. And Spurgeon said, well, because I take God at his word, he said, I'm not assured of my salvation because I think I'm good or something, but God cannot lie. And the Bible in hundred places plus says if you've put your faith in Jesus, your sins are washed away.
Bert Harper Amen. James, have you trusted Jesus as your savior at some point in time, brother?
Caroline Yes. Yes, I have. I've, asked him many times. When I feel very unsaved, I ask him again.
Bert Harper Okay, I'm looking at someone across the way, and he is pointing his finger at himself. Come to that place, Lord. I trust you. Here's what happened to me, and I'll give a quick testimony. I was saved when I was 12. But at the age of 15 and 16, I began. Am I really saved? could God really saves me? And I remember coming home on a Sunday night, James, and I was there, and I said, lord, I don't want to go to hell. I've trusted you. And all of a sudden I just. And I said it out loud, if I go to hell, I'm going to go to hell trusting in Jesus. And all of a sudden, the lights came on. Alex and I understood. Bert, you have placed all your faith in Christ. Everything. Putting it back where, I don't mean to be flippant about this, but here's my. I've put all my marbles in one basket, and it's in Jesus Christ alone that I stand and saved. So James, put. Put it all into Christ. Put every, God, I'm yours, I've been bought with a price. And I want to tell you, God can nail that down for you. And you can say, satan, get behind me. No, I'm following Christ. And we're praying that not just for James, but we're praying for those that are listening. Father, I pray for James that you would bring him to that place of knowing Jesus and Jesus alone, that he has trusted him as Lord and savior of his life. And Father, for others that are struggling, may they understand. Jesus Christ comes in. He indwells us. He makes himself home in our lives when we have trusted him with all of our heart all of our life. In Jesus name, Amen. James, thank you for calling, brother. I appreciate you, man. Okay, let's go to Georgia and talk to Amanda. Amanda, thank you for calling. Go right Ahead.
Jeff Chamblee Thank you. I'm rereading Revelations right now, and I have a question. Who are the elders sitting around Jesus?
Bert Harper 24 elders, is that right, Alex?
Alex McFarland Yes, they are.
Bert Harper let me make it 12 tribes, 12 apostles. Does that have anything to do with it at all?
Alex McFarland I, really do. The 24 elders, these are redeemed people of the old Covenant. the old covenant being, hey, there's going to be a Messiah that will come. The new covenant. There's a Messiah that did come. Same m. Messiah. And, these are, well, the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 apostles. now, are they exactly 24, or is it 24 groups? You know, maybe it's 24 groups, Bert,
Bert Harper which would include the Old Testament saints, the NewSong Testament saints. We're gathered around that throne. Let me just say it's, in Revelation, there's some figurative language that you look at and say, okay, what is this? But there's enough of it that is just so plain, you know? And those 24 it is inclusive, I think, of those. If it's not, it's these 24 that represent those. Alex, am I off base? There? Is that.
Alex McFarland No, I think you're right on the money. Right on the money there,
Bert Harper Amanda. We hope that helps. Thank you for reading that and studying
Alex McFarland Revelation, by the way, in our book that we did, 100 Bible questions on prophecy in the end times, we address this.
Bert Harper Okay. Get that book. You can get it at the resource center here at AFA and I. People, that have talked to me said it's been very helpful. So we hope it'll be helpful to you. Let's go to North Carolina. And it's Eva. Eva, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Thank you. I have been with all for many years, and I want you to pay for me and my finances. Not for me, but the things that I have I done. Nursing assistant for 35 years. And my patients left me gold, silver, all kinds of every kind of old antique pieces. I've had some appraised in thousands and thousands of dollars. And I want you to pay for me to downsize, liquidate, and get my house in order so I can do even more for God.
Bert Harper Amen.
Caroline And I called in one time not long ago about blessing m. Israel and my friends, everyone on keep telling me that I'm wasting my money. The blessing is you're doing this. They say they are not getting that money. A lot of it's going to this, that and other. I said, look, I know what God put on my heart about 25 years ago. I have never been so blessed in my income.
Bert Harper Amen, Eva. Amen. We're going to take out because we want to pray for you. And listen, God will give you wisdom on your giving, he really will. And he knows how to do that if we can trust him. Alex, Fellas, North Carolinian, would you mind praying for Eva?
Alex McFarland Amen. Let's pray. Father God, we thank you so much for this dear sister who's being very, deliberate and methodical about her giving. Lord bless her. And Lord, I pray all of us that you would help us to be more, just joyful, cheerful givers and careful givers. And may your holy Spirit guide all of us where we can, donate. And it will make maximum impact for the Great Commission like Eva is doing. Lord, thank you for what, what a great testimony. And Lord, we thank you for the way that you provide for American Families Radio and American Family Association. And I know literally, every day of the week I hear good reports from people that listen to exploring the Word and the other programming. So thank you, Jesus, that we can be a part of your Great Commission. we were reached. Help us to reach others as well. And especially we pray your blessing on Eva in Christ's name. Amen.
Bert Harper Amen. Steve from Missouri, can you make your comment in just a short order? Go ahead, brother, if you can.
Caroline Yes, sir, I can.
Caroline When I was doing my Bible study this morning,
Caroline the
Caroline good Lord gave me a
Caroline thought, and it's really,
Caroline a spectacular thought. I
Caroline think
Caroline God gave
Caroline us free will so we could decide whether we would freely follow him and love him or not. But in the end of days, Satan will force everyone to worship him or they will be put to death by starvation and execution.
Caroline which God do we want to follow? Because so many are following Satan today.
Bert Harper Preach it, Steve. And we need to do it now, don't we? Alex? Now's the time. Trust Christ now. Go ahead, Alex.
Alex McFarland Seek the Lord while he may be found. Steve, that was a great thought. Hey, we thank everybody for listening and those that call in, read on ahead into Hosea. But tomorrow Bert is fire away Friday, isn't it? That's right. We have questions all the hour,
Bert Harper so you're going to have that number. 8, 8, 8. Yeah. Triple 8, 5 8, 9 8, 84 0. We'll give it again and again. And tomorrow we want you to call in, have that question ready. Alex and I will do our best to give the biblical solid answer in care and in love and in courage. Thank you for listening to exploring the word. Tell someone about this program, but more importantly, tell them about Jesus.
Jeff Chamblee The views and opinions expressed in this broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of the American Family association or American Family Radio.
Jeff Chamblee The Bible. It's the word of God. Sharper than any two edged sword. This sacred book is living and active and contains all that's needed for life and godliness. Stay with American Family Radio for the next hour as we study God's word and take your Bible questions. Welcome to Exploring the Word.
Alex McFarland Come, let us return to the Lord. He has torn us to pieces, but he will heal us. That is from Hosea 6 and we are in the Old Testament book of Hosea. Today we invite you to get a copy of God's Word and turn and follow along with us. Alex McFarland here along with Bert Harper. And Bert, before we go too much farther into Hosea, I've got to tell you the great privilege I have tonight. May I share something with you?
Bert Harper I want to hear this. Go ahead.
Alex McFarland Well, I am in a place called Florence, South Carolina. Now a few weeks ago I was in Florence, Alabama and we are going to be there next fall. But I am in Florence, South Carolina and tonight I have the great privilege of speaking at an event for Child Evangelism Fellowship. Are you familiar with that ministry? You
Bert Harper better believe. We've interviewed them several times on exploring missions. What a ministry they have. Alex. This is good news, brother.
Alex McFarland Amen. well, And I love CEF Child Evangelism Fellowship because when she was in about second grade through one of the good news clubs, Angie McFarland, my wife, heard the gospel and came to Jesus as a little girl through cef. Amen. So we love that ministry and I'm looking forward to speaking for him tonight.
Bert Harper Child Evangelism and then fellowship of Christian Athletes. They're still active in doing work, and they're aiding the church. Not taking the place, but aiding the church and carrying out the Great Commission and discipleship. Alex, can I pray for you in that meeting now?
Alex McFarland Yes. Lead us.
Bert Harper Father, I thank you for Alex and I thank you for the Evangelism Fellowship of her children. Father, what a difference they've made in so many people's lives, including Angie's. And I thank you that, Father, that Alex is able to go there and to share and to be a part of that. And may they be encouraged, may they be challenged. And we ask that you would continue to use them for your glory and your honor in carrying out the Great Commission. In Jesus name, Amen.
Alex McFarland Amen. Thank you, Bert. Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord. Well, you know, Hosea, we're right in there and it's going by quickly and yesterday we talked about, some of God's judgment. But even in spite of Israel's unrepentance and backslidings, God is, he's redemptive. And he wants to restore, doesn't he?
Bert Harper He really does. And that is the good news. We're going to start today with a verse that's part of the other part, but it kind of stands. chapter four, verse 11. Listen to this, Alex. Harlotry, wine and you wine, enslave the heart. Again, that stands. That's a statement that does stand alone. But it's also adding to what the people were doing for the lack of knowledge. Turning away from God. And the priests not living up to their calling, the prophets not doing what God had called them to do. And what happens when. When this happens? The heart is enslaved. Addiction becomes a part of it. And so here it is. And so what do they do? My people? Ask counsel from their wooden idols. And their staff informs them, for the spirit of harlotry has caused them to stray. And they have played the harlot against their God. Again. Now, again, he's using this in a combination. I believe he's talking about idolatry. But again here in verse 11. Harlotry, wine and new wine enslave the. They do that, ah, as the physical part. Physically, they do that. But when you're looking for answers here, and that's the reason I wanted to come here, ask counsel. When you're asking counsel, you're looking for answers. Answers that are true, answers that are real. And they're looking in all the wrong places, aren't they?
Alex McFarland Well, they are. And notice how, carnality, physical, sin always leads to spiritual sin.
Bert Harper Always.
Alex McFarland Harlotry, wine, new wine. But then they get to divination. Asking counsel from wooden idols. Their staff informs them, not employees, not that kind of staff, but like a stick and letting it fall on the ground and try to, you know, divine wisdom from some physical object rather than prayer. And it says, and this is it. they have played the harlot against God, offering sacrifices on mountaintops, burn incense on the hills under oaks, poplars and terebinths. Now that's a type of a tree, a terebinth tree, because their shade is good. In other words, just sitting in the shade. Bert, did you ever hear the old saying, idle, hands are the devil's workshop?
Bert Harper Yes, I did. And there's a word that we couldn't use when I was a boy. bored. B O R E D. If we. If we use that word with my daddy I want to just tell you, being on the farm, there were plenty of things to do, and we. If we weren't going to do it, we were now, if we use that term. So. Yeah. Idle, idle hands and an idle mind. They're dangerous places and dangerous things, aren't they?
Alex McFarland Yeah. I have to say, if. If my sister or I ever said. Of course I never did. I don't. By God's grace, I don't think I've ever been bored. But if we had said, we're bored, my dad would have said, oh, I can cure that
Bert Harper with a board.
Alex McFarland Yeah. Or with some chores.
Bert Harper Yeah. One or the other.
Alex McFarland Yes. And let me just say this. Sin and backsliding and carnality, it affects the children. Therefore, your daughters commit harlotry. Your brides commit adultery. You know, a bride should be, as they say, pure as the driven snow. But no, there's just sin throughout. and the men themselves go apart with harlots and offer sacrifices with a ritual harlot. In other words, this is habitual sin. Therefore, people who do not understand it will be trampled. it's just the destructive. Well, you, know, sin and the grave are never satisfied. Jon Piper, years ago, the radio preacher, he said, too many of us are in the business of sin management rather than repentance, and sin will manage you. And Israel learned that the hard way.
Bert Harper They did. Now, I want to go back, not to study, but to remind everyone. Notice what it starts out in chapter four, he says, a, charge against the inhabitants of the land. This is like a courtroom. This is the charge. The overall charge is in verse one, there's no truth or mercy or knowledge of God in the land. That's kind of like the broad charge. And then verse two, all the way through what we're reading, all the way in verse 19 when it finished. They give specific examples of those charges. Alex. And here it is, as you said, harlotry is a part of their. And though you, Israel, play the harlot. Verse 15. Let not Judah offend. Do not come up to Gilgal, nor go to Beth Aven. And we want to come back to that. Nor swear an oath saying, as the Lord lives. In other words, don't bring God in it. But what does Gilgal and. Okay, Beth Aven. it changed its name a little bit. The original two places in the northern kingdom that Jeroboam I set up to worship were what two places? Gilgal and Bethel. And he says, you're still going those you're not doing the right place. You're not worshiping the right God. You don't have the right priest. You don't have the right commandments. You're living your own life. But it's interesting, this Beth haven Bethel meant originally house of God. Beth haven means house of idolatry or wickedness. And so here is, Hosea. I don't know if you'd say a play on the word or not, but it's no longer a house of God, but it's a house of wickedness. It makes me think of what Jesus said in the NewSong Testament. In place of my house being a house of prayer, you've made it a den of thieves. So, Alex, we don't need to let our life become something different than the temple of God. We need to let God have his reign in our lives, don't we?
Alex McFarland We do. We do. And, you know, Gilgal and Beth aven not a haven h a v e n like a place of rest, but it's a v e n which was a hotbed of idolatry, sadly. And, so, you know, Gilgal had been a good place. It was prominent in Elijah and Elisha. But Beth aven a place of idolatry, verse 16. Israel is stubborn, like a stubborn calf. Now the Lord will let them forage like a lamb in open country. The word forage, f o r a g e is like searching but not finding. You know, you're out scavenging for food. Yeah, like a lamb in open country. Ephraim is joined to idols, or let him alone. Their drink is rebellion. Our drink should be water to nourish us. Well, what are they? They're nourishing themselves on rebellion. They commit harlotry continually. Her rulers dearly love dishonor. The wind has wrapped her up in its wings. and they shall be ashamed because of their sacrifices. you know, Mark Twain said, man is the only creature that blushes and the only one that really needs to, here. Israel should be ashamed because of their sacrifices, which are not, sacrifice and worship to the true and living God, but they are, in other words, religiously following sin.
Bert Harper That's what they're doing. Go back, if we could, to verse 17. Ephraim, that is the largest tribe in the northern kingdom. And, a lot of times Hosea and some others, they will use Ephraim as the example for the whole, country there. But again, being the largest leadership, like here in America with the elections coming up, and we're going to pray Again today, God do a great work. we're praying that you would do that. But, you know, the larger states like Texas, California, NewSong York, and I know that Chicago, there's others. How many representatives they have in the House of Representatives? their senators seem to, you know, since they represent so many people, a lot of times they're given recognition. And Ephraim was like that. But listen, he is joined to idols. Now, look at those last three words in verse 17. Leave him alone. Now, who is he speaking to? if you'll look back, in verse 15, though Israel play the harlot, let not Judah offend. In other words, the prophets from the south, and, they're going their way. Their determination of destruction has already happened. Now, that's the country. It doesn't mean individuals could come out from and get right with God. That's always the case. But far as the Northern kingdom, their destruction is set. Let him alone. That's some of the saddest words in the world, Alex. They've already gone too far. Let him alone. That's. Yeah, that's pretty detrimental, isn't it?
Alex McFarland Well, you know, it's like in the book of Romans where it says God gave them up, the people that were, so given, you know, to sin. And I'll just say it, you know, there in Romans 1:28, it's homosexual, sin. God gives them over or lets them go to a reprobate mind, because they can no longer tell good from evil. And I think about it now, and look, Jesus loves people, and whosoever will may come. But I mean, we've got people with all the strength they can muster defending homosexuality, transgenderism, abortion. Can't even say that women carry babies saying men can get pregnant. I mean, people are either knowingly standing for what's false, or God has let them go to the point that they just can't even tell reality anymore. And that is a dangerous place to be in because, Bert, you know, it says, Ephraim, is joined to idols. Let him alone. In verse 17 of Hosea 4, they don't even know that they can no longer tell right from wrong.
Bert Harper It goes back to 2nd Corinthians 4. 4. The enemy Satan has blinded their minds. They can't even think straight. They can't see. And therefore they repeat all these things. That's got them into trouble. They continue that path. We'll be back with more of Hosea right after this break. Hello, I'm Bert Harper. Did you know that this Content is listener supported. Without people like you, this podcast would not exist. That's why we need you. A generous monthly gift of any amount will sustain American Family Radio and specifically this podcast. Please consider becoming a monthly financial partner today by visiting afr.net give that's afr.net gift.
Dr. Jessica Peck Sing everything I need. Everything I need. My father hasn't, My father hasn't. And every single time, the Lord will provide. That's right, my father hasn't. It's my father. What
Bert Harper a father he is. He's a good, good father. If you don't know him, please come to know him. Today, I was talking to a guy that's sitting across from me and he is talking about how God has just changed his life. I'm, talking about Brent Austin, our producer. We were just, we had church earlier today, Alex, just rejoicing what God has done in our lives and praising him for who he is. And we want every listener to know this. And so that's why we are passionate about the word of God and coming to Christ. We're in Hosea, chapter five. Now, notice how it starts out. Hear this, O priest, again. Now he's bringing this statement. It's kind of like, now I've told you the charges, I've been specific. Now listen to what I'm saying. I want to close this out and you to understand. And he says, hear this. Now, I'm skipping down and that doesn't mean we'll have to skip these, but verse three, for listen to this, I know Ephraim again, that's another name for all of the northern kingdom. And Israel is not hidden from me for now. O Ephraim, you commit harlotry. Israel is defiled. They do not direct their deeds toward turning to their God. For the spirit of harlotry is in their midst and they do not know the Lord. The pride of Israel testifies to his face. Therefore, Israel and Ephraim stumble in their iniquity. Judah also stumbles with them. Now, Alex, verse four speaks loudly and we're talking about them. They're just going their way. They had sinned prophets, but they had not listened. God would send messages. he would help them to want them to turn from the Lord. But listen to verse four. They do not direct their deeds toward turning to their God. Why? For the spirit of harlotry is in their midst and they do not know the Lord. Alex, going back to Romans, chapter one, when you combine these two chapters, chapter four and chapter five to the book of Romans, chapter One and see how that downward spiral works. You see it here. When their hearts were turned away from God, when they started worshiping, and it says, the wine, the new wine, the harlotry again, their belief and behavior, they were going downward in a downward spiral. They do not direct their deeds toward turning to their God. Honestly, they're turning away from him, aren't they?
Alex McFarland they. They really are. You know, Bert, very often I've referenced, Elmer Townes and some of you that went to Liberty back in the day, Liberty University. The academic dean for many years was Elmer Towns. And he used to always say this, Bert, and it's a great saying. I don't think it was original with him, but Dr. Towns would always say, sow, a thought, reap an action. So an action, reap a habit. Sow a habit, reap a character. Sow a character, reap a destiny. You know, and when I read this and it says that the spirit of harlotry is within them, you know, I mean, I think about this. thoughts begat actions. The Bible says, as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. You know, and so whether it's lust or materialism or even, you know, anger and curse words or, you know, stealing or the horoscope, you know, it is vigilant to fill our mind with God's truth and then pursue with our life God's ways and God himself through Jesus Christ. Because these things, you know, when I read, read, verse four and following, they do not direct their deeds toward turning to God. So what are they turning to? Because, Bert, remember, Jesus said, if you don't stand with me, you will fall. So if they're not turning to God, what are they turning to? Well, all these sins, and I think about the spirit of harlotry. you don't want to have these spirits, and I mean, the mindset that leads to the actions, that's
Bert Harper demonic, isn't it, Alex? It
Alex McFarland is really
Bert Harper what he's referring to. Okay, I hated to interrupt, but it is demonic.
Alex McFarland It is. And it starts. Well, there's no small things when it comes to your character. And it comes to what you fixate on. Because, you know, what is a thought or an inclination today is going to be a lifestyle potentially destructive tomorrow, isn't it?
Bert Harper It really is. And that is the whole idea. Now, notice what comes in verse five. the pride of Israel. Listen, you can get to the root of all sin, and it's pride. I want my way. I want to do my thing. I Want more. Whatever it is, it is that pride. But notice the last part of verse 5. Judah also stumbles with him. Now, he's a prophet to the northern kingdom. That. That is what Jose is. But he includes Judah, the southern kingdom on it. Now, there they have gone as far as the northern kingdom. But he says they're stumbling too. They're there. And while he's preaching this to the Northern kingdom, he's having the southern kingdom say, you guys better listen as well. And I said this yesterday, so I'm going to say it again. I. I do. I not only repeat verses, that with words in the scriptures, sometimes I repeat my. But anyway, as France is going now, so shall we go, if we don't turn. And so here's what in France is burning, destruction and everything. But Judah also stumbles. Verse 6. With their flocks and herds they shall go to seek the Lord, but they will not find him. Why he has withdrawn himself from them. Now, what a statement. I want to compare that real quickly. I'll turn it back to you, Alex. Isaiah 59. Everybody knows this great passage. The Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, nor his ear heavy, that he cannot hear. But your iniquities have, separated you from God. And your sins have hidden his face from you. Now listen to this last line. So that he will not hear. He chooses not to hear. He chooses not to respond in a positive way. So here it says, he has withdrawn himself from them. Alex, again, we're talking about. Again, Romans chapter one. When you study this, study Romans one, and you'll see what's taking place. and it's not only true for an individual, it's true for a country as well, isn't it?
Alex McFarland Well, it really is. And that word withdrawn there is, ah, very, It should be a frightening word. You don't want God to withdraw from you. Let me just say this. And we've. I know I'm horribly repetitious, but some things are just worth repeating. Amen. you can't just come to God whenever you jolly well please. Because, you know, there's the world, the flesh and the devil. And if you're. If you're desiring God, you're thinking about the Lord and you want to get right with God. Well, that's the Holy Spirit drawing you. It's not the world, the flesh or the devil. And so if God, you know, and the word is C H A L, A T S, it, means to pull away and to draw back. And it's Almost like a soldier. I'm looking at one commentary. Turning and marching in a different direction. Okay, so, the time to respond to the overtures of the holy spirit. The minute you sense that your heart is thinking about God, well, that's God calling you. That's God making overtures. And how gracious it is that God would call us to Himself.
Bert Harper Verse 7 warns us. When you do this, right in the middle of verse seven, you have begotten pagan children. you know, listen, turn, make sure we're, you know, let me say it this way. a sermon is better seen than heard, especially in home. Let them see Christ in you, you grandparents, you, parents. Now, they can turn away, but let them see Christ in you and let them know that. That you're not. They're not being devoured by the enemy. Now, verses 8 through verse 12. Notice the term blow the ram's horn. I've got an announcement to make. This is kind of like the sentence. This is the verdict that comes against them. And it says, cry aloud at Beth Aven. There it is again. Look behind you, O Benjamin. Ephraim shall be desolate in the day of rebuke among the tribes of Israel. I make known what is sure. The prince of Judah are like those who remove a landmark. I will pour out my wrath on them like water. Ephraim is oppressed and broken in judgment because he willingly walked by their human precept. They willingly turned away from God and went their own way. Alex. Therefore, let me finish verse 12. Therefore I'll be to Ephraim like a moth, and the house, house of Judah like rottenness. Now, again, this is the judgment. This is what they've been in a trial. Remember, it started in chapter four, verse one. This is the charge. They gave the charge, they gave the evidence. They made the closing statement about. Listen, this is, you've withdrawn yourself. God's withdrawn from you. Now blow the trumpet. Judgment is coming. it does really go that way. Doesn't
Alex McFarland really does. And then, so they're thinking about, you know, we have, needs. We're going to go to the Assyrian, or the king for help. Verse 13. He is not able to cure you, not able to heal your sores. For I will be like a lion to Ephraim, A great lion to Judah. it is interesting. You know, it said that God, said I would be like a moth. What's that? Well, you know, it can be an aggravation, but it's something that you see, and it's gone away like rot to the people of Judah. Verse 12. But now in verse 14, God says He's going to be like a lion. lions are dangerous. I will carry them off with no one to rescue them. Then I will return to my lair until they have borne their guilt and seek my face. In their misery, they will earnestly seek me. Now, this sounds severe, but it's, out of love. God loves us enough. It's like Sheldon Vanliere Auken, the famous author who, speaking of how God sometimes at any cost will draw us to himself. A severe mercy. About 1978, that was the Christian book of the year. A severe mercy. And Bertrand, you know, that's just not the way the world thinks. The world thinks? Well, you know, God is like a kindly old grandfather up in the sky, and I can do just any which way. No, God cares about our soul. God cares about righteousness. And that's why he says, repent, you know, seek the Lord while he is near. but this is some pretty vivid language about the severity of their sin, but the depth of God's redemptive mercy. Bert, I've got to say one thing. I don't mean to go backwards here, but, you know, it talked about that, the people were in so much sin. verse seven. They gave birth, the King James says, to strange children. Some translations say illegitimate children. What does your translation say of Hosea 5, 7
Bert Harper pagan children that they have begotten. Pagan children? Yes.
Alex McFarland Let me just say this. whenever you see the word strange, the, way the King James renders it, there's warnings about the strange woman, the strange gods, and here, pagan or strange children. You know, Abraham Lincoln said, what's in the philosophy of the schoolroom in one generation is the lifestyle of the people in the streets in the next generation, Bert, we've seen. I've heard it probably hundreds of times. People say, I don't understand. My son's an atheist. We went to church a little bit growing up, and now my son's an agnostic or an atheist or some other religion. Listen, we so desperately need revival in America. There was an article in World magazine a few years ago about the graying of the American church. As in gray hair. Now, I know there are a lot of great churches that are winning children and youth to Christ and parents, too. But to a degree, Bert, we have seen a, falling away somehow. Another, over the last, say, 25 years, the baton did not get passed to the next generation of runners. Have you seen this? To a degree, Bert,
Bert Harper I have Seen it. I've observed it. And again. And they are those. Yeah. There's pockets in different areas, churches that are. Man, young people are going. And that's the reason Charlie Kirk, they hated him so much because he was raising the challenge, especially for young men, to return to that which God would have and marry and have children. Let God reign. And so. But let me go back a little bit. And this has to do a little bit of the history of American Family, Association, American Family Radio. Don Wildmon, one of the shows that he demonstrated and said, man, we need to do something, and it seems so mild now, was Threes Company. You remember that there was two. Two women and one man living in the same apartment. And the, manager didn't like that at all. And of course they would mock him, but they let it be known, okay. He played like he was a homosexual. And that made them, oh, well, okay. That means that's okay. They're going out. And what this. And again, Brother Don saw that and saw where it would lead to. And it has. We stood and we said, hey, we don't need to go that way. Stop. Don't go that way. We're trying to put red lights up to stop. Don't go this way. Don't follow this. But here's. You said it, a little bit about the generations. I heard it one say this way, what one generation laughs at, the next generation embraces. When you look at Three's Company, the laughter that. That brought in concerning homosexuality, that he wasn't. But they, you know, he was letting it be known. Laughter, laughter, laughter. And now embrace. And so here what you find out in verse seven, what that one generation accepted and the second generation absorbed. Embrace and then soar. That happened in this.
Alex McFarland Listen to this. Bert, when I really, really found Jesus, it was in 1985, I was 21 years old, and I began to work on, growing in the Lord. And I listened to the Christian radio stations. And I remember I was. One night I was down, in the barn. I was working on an old 66 Mustang, putting a rear end in a Mustang, laying on my back, listening to James Dobson. This is the fall of 85. And Dr. Dobson said, if we don't have a revival in America one day, the Supreme Court will legalize gay marriage and, transgenderism. And years later, I told Dr. Dobson the story. He said back in the day, he said, if anything, I wasn't forceful enough about it. But Don Wildmon, Chuck Colson, James Dobson, they were prophetic, weren't they.
Bert Harper They were. Hey, if you've got a Bible question, triple 858-98840. We would like to thank our sponsors, including PreBorn. PreBorn has rescued over 400,000 babies from abortion and has seen over 100,000 commitments to Christ. Will you join PreBorn in continuing this good work supporting young moms in crisis? Save a life today. Go to preborn.com afr.
Alex McFarland He lifts us up, doesn't he? His arms are outstretched. For you, my friend. Jesus is as close by as a prayer. Hey. Well, this is the part of the program on Exploring the Word where we answer your Bible questions. We love to hear from everybody. And that number. If you have a question, call in. You'll get through. We'll, give you a biblical answer. It's 888-589-8840. And Bert, where do we begin today?
Bert Harper Let's go to Louisiana and talk to Wayne. Wayne, thank you for calling Exploring the Word today. Go right ahead.
Caroline Yes, sir. Yeah, I just had a comment about the word atheist. You know, the word of God tells him that, the Lord is important to every man, the measure of faith. And we also read in the Old Testament that the fool has said in his heart there is no God, so there's really no such thing as a true atheist. And, they just don't want to be accountable for their actions.
Bert Harper Okay, let me tell you what our leader Tim Wildmon says says there. They, these people that you're talking about, Wayne. There is no God and we hate him.
Alex McFarland Yeah,
Bert Harper I think that, you know, they deny, but, I agree with Wayne. There's some.
Alex McFarland Yeah,
Bert Harper there's something there, isn't there, Alex?
Alex McFarland I think the caller is exactly right. In fact, some of the atheists that I've interviewed, they talk more about God than any preacher I know. And so I think deep down they know. Everybody knows. They just, for whatever sad reason, they don't want to be accountable to God. But, the greatest, you know, it's wonderful to be saved, to know that your sins are forgiven, to know that your name is written in the Lamb's book of life. But, Bert, don't you think one of the great, great privileges is to have a relationship with Jesus?
Bert Harper Amen.
Alex McFarland Yeah, we're going to go to heaven when we leave this world. That's wonderful. But Jesus is the friend who sticks closer than a brother. what a blessing that is,
Bert Harper that eternal life is not just quantity, it's quality. Okay. yeah, it's everlasting, but it's A life worth living. Didn't say it's easy. Didn't say, oh, man, got it made. No, it's a, it's. It's a trek and it's climbing some mountains, getting in some tight places, but it's an adventure worth taking. Trust Christ. Thank you, Wayne. Let's go to Illinois and talk to William. William, thank you for calling today.
Caroline Brothers, a comment on what was just said. When the devil got through with me, when I was in sin, I found out I sure was no atheist within. He made a believer out of me. But far as Illinois, There were only three counties in Illinois that voted against Mr. Trump. Main one is Chicago area, and a couple other counties. Illinois actually is not a blue state. It's just a corner of Illinois that's a blue state.
Bert Harper Yeah. William, I wanted to tell you these big cities, we're making this comment. We want to pray for our election. We're going to try to take time out to do that today, because they've called it two or three folks said we need to pray. And if you're going pray exploring the Word, a good place to do it. But these large cities like Atlanta in Georgia, Seattle in Washington, Portland in Oregon, as they go, so goes the state when it comes to the Senate elections. And so, we need to seek God. Alex, right now would be a good time just to pray. Would you mind leading us in prayer and saying, God, help us, help us.
Alex McFarland Thank you. Let's agree together in prayer, everybody. Father, in the name of Jesus. Lord, we give you glory. And we thank you for how you've blessed our nation, in the history of the world. America is so unique. And Lord, we know from the beginning, so much about our nation, comes right from the Bible. And we, I think about Proverbs 14:34, that righteousness exalts a nation, but sin will be a reproach or bringing, us down. And so, Lord, please preside in these elections. And Lord, down there in Texas, I pray that, Talarico loses in Jesus name. yes, Lord, not because we wish any ill. That man needs to be saved. He is. He's heaping your judgment on him. The way he twists scripture. I mean, he. His entire campaign has been so blasphemous because he's trying to pander to socialists, lesbians, transgender Marxists, abortionists. And Lord, so many running, we just pray, Lord, that you would let the Republicans retain both houses of Congress. And Lord, we just believe that, our nation can be restored. And I pray in the name of Jesus that God fearing people will get elected. And they're saying so many of these races, it's over. No, it is not over, Lord. the Bible says that the king's heart is in the Lord's hand like the rivers of water. He turns it whithersoever he will. So, Father God, please, for the glory of your name, would you help our nation preside over these elections, Rule and overrule. And we continue to pray. We thank you in advance and come what may, we worship you, we serve you, we look to you and our hope, our, trust. Everything, is in you, Jesus, and we lift it up to you. In your name we pray. Amen.
Bert Harper Thank you, Alex. Thank you, William. Let's go to Mississippi. And it's James. James, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Yes, I was just calling and asked to ask a question. What is usually the problem when you feel very saved sometimes and very unsaved sometimes? Okay,
Bert Harper okay, James. There. Satan, those of us that are believers. Satan wants to make us doubt. He is a liar. he is one that can really sell you a bill of goods saying, what if not now. But you go back and you look, God says concerning himself, that he is Jesus, is Lord, that we are to turn from our way and turn to him. That's what the whole idea. There's a way that seems right to a man, but the end thereof is the ways of death. If man goes his way, Alex, to get right with God, they have to turn to God, don't they?
Alex McFarland They do. They do. And, let me say this. You, know, knowing that you're saved, the assurance of salvation, we've shared it so many times. I think about, like 1st Jon 5:13, these things are written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life. But, Bert, I think about First Jon, chapter three, where it says, by this we know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him. Listen to this. First Jon 3:18. For whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart and knows everything. Now, if you're under conviction and you're not sure that you've ever accepted Christ, then by all means, whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:13. But. But if you know that you've accepted Christ and yet you're worried and doubting, give yourself permission to rest in Jesus and to know. And somebody asked Charles Spurgeon one time Bert and Spurgeon, he was a great Christian leader in the late 1800s. Somebody said, you know, well, you're rather presumptuous. You said that, you know, you're saved. And Spurgeon said, well, because I take God at his word, he said, I'm not assured of my salvation because I think I'm good or something, but God cannot lie. And the Bible in hundred places plus says if you've put your faith in Jesus, your sins are washed away.
Bert Harper Amen. James, have you trusted Jesus as your savior at some point in time, brother?
Caroline Yes. Yes, I have. I've, asked him many times. When I feel very unsaved, I ask him again.
Bert Harper Okay, I'm looking at someone across the way, and he is pointing his finger at himself. Come to that place, Lord. I trust you. Here's what happened to me, and I'll give a quick testimony. I was saved when I was 12. But at the age of 15 and 16, I began. Am I really saved? could God really saves me? And I remember coming home on a Sunday night, James, and I was there, and I said, lord, I don't want to go to hell. I've trusted you. And all of a sudden I just. And I said it out loud, if I go to hell, I'm going to go to hell trusting in Jesus. And all of a sudden, the lights came on. Alex and I understood. Bert, you have placed all your faith in Christ. Everything. Putting it back where, I don't mean to be flippant about this, but here's my. I've put all my marbles in one basket, and it's in Jesus Christ alone that I stand and saved. So James, put. Put it all into Christ. Put every, God, I'm yours, I've been bought with a price. And I want to tell you, God can nail that down for you. And you can say, satan, get behind me. No, I'm following Christ. And we're praying that not just for James, but we're praying for those that are listening. Father, I pray for James that you would bring him to that place of knowing Jesus and Jesus alone, that he has trusted him as Lord and savior of his life. And Father, for others that are struggling, may they understand. Jesus Christ comes in. He indwells us. He makes himself home in our lives when we have trusted him with all of our heart all of our life. In Jesus name, Amen. James, thank you for calling, brother. I appreciate you, man. Okay, let's go to Georgia and talk to Amanda. Amanda, thank you for calling. Go right Ahead.
Jeff Chamblee Thank you. I'm rereading Revelations right now, and I have a question. Who are the elders sitting around Jesus?
Bert Harper 24 elders, is that right, Alex?
Alex McFarland Yes, they are.
Bert Harper let me make it 12 tribes, 12 apostles. Does that have anything to do with it at all?
Alex McFarland I, really do. The 24 elders, these are redeemed people of the old Covenant. the old covenant being, hey, there's going to be a Messiah that will come. The new covenant. There's a Messiah that did come. Same m. Messiah. And, these are, well, the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 apostles. now, are they exactly 24, or is it 24 groups? You know, maybe it's 24 groups, Bert,
Bert Harper which would include the Old Testament saints, the NewSong Testament saints. We're gathered around that throne. Let me just say it's, in Revelation, there's some figurative language that you look at and say, okay, what is this? But there's enough of it that is just so plain, you know? And those 24 it is inclusive, I think, of those. If it's not, it's these 24 that represent those. Alex, am I off base? There? Is that.
Alex McFarland No, I think you're right on the money. Right on the money there,
Bert Harper Amanda. We hope that helps. Thank you for reading that and studying
Alex McFarland Revelation, by the way, in our book that we did, 100 Bible questions on prophecy in the end times, we address this.
Bert Harper Okay. Get that book. You can get it at the resource center here at AFA and I. People, that have talked to me said it's been very helpful. So we hope it'll be helpful to you. Let's go to North Carolina. And it's Eva. Eva, thank you for calling. Go right ahead.
Caroline Thank you. I have been with all for many years, and I want you to pay for me and my finances. Not for me, but the things that I have I done. Nursing assistant for 35 years. And my patients left me gold, silver, all kinds of every kind of old antique pieces. I've had some appraised in thousands and thousands of dollars. And I want you to pay for me to downsize, liquidate, and get my house in order so I can do even more for God.
Bert Harper Amen.
Caroline And I called in one time not long ago about blessing m. Israel and my friends, everyone on keep telling me that I'm wasting my money. The blessing is you're doing this. They say they are not getting that money. A lot of it's going to this, that and other. I said, look, I know what God put on my heart about 25 years ago. I have never been so blessed in my income.
Bert Harper Amen, Eva. Amen. We're going to take out because we want to pray for you. And listen, God will give you wisdom on your giving, he really will. And he knows how to do that if we can trust him. Alex, Fellas, North Carolinian, would you mind praying for Eva?
Alex McFarland Amen. Let's pray. Father God, we thank you so much for this dear sister who's being very, deliberate and methodical about her giving. Lord bless her. And Lord, I pray all of us that you would help us to be more, just joyful, cheerful givers and careful givers. And may your holy Spirit guide all of us where we can, donate. And it will make maximum impact for the Great Commission like Eva is doing. Lord, thank you for what, what a great testimony. And Lord, we thank you for the way that you provide for American Families Radio and American Family Association. And I know literally, every day of the week I hear good reports from people that listen to exploring the Word and the other programming. So thank you, Jesus, that we can be a part of your Great Commission. we were reached. Help us to reach others as well. And especially we pray your blessing on Eva in Christ's name. Amen.
Bert Harper Amen. Steve from Missouri, can you make your comment in just a short order? Go ahead, brother, if you can.
Caroline Yes, sir, I can.
Caroline When I was doing my Bible study this morning,
Caroline the
Caroline good Lord gave me a
Caroline thought, and it's really,
Caroline a spectacular thought. I
Caroline think
Caroline God gave
Caroline us free will so we could decide whether we would freely follow him and love him or not. But in the end of days, Satan will force everyone to worship him or they will be put to death by starvation and execution.
Caroline which God do we want to follow? Because so many are following Satan today.
Bert Harper Preach it, Steve. And we need to do it now, don't we? Alex? Now's the time. Trust Christ now. Go ahead, Alex.
Alex McFarland Seek the Lord while he may be found. Steve, that was a great thought. Hey, we thank everybody for listening and those that call in, read on ahead into Hosea. But tomorrow Bert is fire away Friday, isn't it? That's right. We have questions all the hour,
Bert Harper so you're going to have that number. 8, 8, 8. Yeah. Triple 8, 5 8, 9 8, 84 0. We'll give it again and again. And tomorrow we want you to call in, have that question ready. Alex and I will do our best to give the biblical solid answer in care and in love and in courage. Thank you for listening to exploring the word. Tell someone about this program, but more importantly, tell them about Jesus.
Jeff Chamblee The views and opinions expressed in this broadcast may not necessarily reflect those of the American Family association or American Family Radio.
In this episode of Exploring the Word, Alex McFarland and Bert Harper continue their study of Hosea, examining how idolatry, addiction, pride, and persistent sin led Israel away from God, and how God’s warnings were also an expression of his desire to bring people back to him. They unpack Hosea’s vivid images of a “stubborn calf,” a nation joined to idols, and the devastating words, “Leave him alone,” while reflecting on the influence one generation’s choices can have on the next.
The hosts also take listener questions about atheism, assurance of salvation, the 24 elders in Revelation, generosity, and the choices people face in the last days. Along the way, they pray for callers, the upcoming elections, and the work of Child Evangelism Fellowship. Listen for a Bible-centered conversation about repentance, spiritual discernment, passing faith on to the next generation, and finding confidence in Jesus.
Live
Did you know American Family Radio is listener-supported? Your monthly financial support will allow us to continue upholding Godly values through our numerous channels, like American Family Radio, One Million Moms, The Stand magazine, and many more.
Become a Great Commission Partner TODAY to help AFR transform culture by rebuilding the family. When you donate today, you’ll get access to:
