The Bridegroom | Pastor Nate Keeler
Hosea 3 might be one of the shortest chapters in the Bible, but its message is profoundly rich. James Montgomery Boyce, a notable theologian, once described it as the “greatest chapter in the Bible.” Why? Because it vividly portrays the gospel story 700 years before Christ’s birth.
In this chapter, we find a powerful narrative of God’s unconditional love and redemptive power through the prophet Hosea and his relationship with his unfaithful wife, Gomer. Let’s dive into this story to uncover what it means for us today.
A Picture of Unfailing Love
Hosea was instructed by God to love his wife, Gomer, despite her unfaithfulness. She had left him and was now being sold in a slave market—a place of ultimate humiliation and degradation. Hosea had every right to abandon her, but God’s command was clear: Go, love her again, just as the Lord loves the Israelites (Hosea 3:1).
This act was not just about marital restoration; it was a living parable of God’s relentless love for His people. Despite Israel’s spiritual adultery—chasing after other gods—God demonstrated His unwavering commitment.
The Cost of Redemption
The redemption of Gomer was costly. Hosea paid fifteen shekels of silver and a measure of barley—the average price of a slave. This was not just a financial transaction. Imagine the emotional toll on Hosea as he redeemed the woman who had betrayed him.
Similarly, Jesus entered the “slave market” of sin to redeem us. On the cross, He bore our shame, took on our sin, and paid the ultimate price—His life. He became sin who knew no sin, so that in Him, we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21).
Restoration Through Relationship
After redeeming Gomer, Hosea spoke tenderly to her, outlining a period of renewal: You are to live with me for many days… and I will live with you (Hosea 3:3). This mirrors God’s desire not just to save us but to restore a personal and intimate relationship with Him.
Hosea 2:14-16 paints this restoration beautifully: God says, I will allure her… and speak tenderly to her. There she will respond as in the days of her youth. God longs to take us back to the purity and joy of our first love for Him.
Fulfilled in Christ
The story of Hosea and Gomer is a shadow of a greater reality fulfilled in Jesus. In Matthew 9:15, Jesus refers to Himself as the bridegroom. He came to pursue His bride, the Church, and paid the ultimate cost to redeem her.
Christmas, often seen as a season of joy, is also a reminder of this costly love. The baby born in Bethlehem grew up to stretch His arms on a cross, bridging the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity.
The Pursuit of Your Heart
God’s love for humanity is the greatest wonder in the universe. As preacher Donald Gray Barnhouse described, “The pursuing love of God is the greatest wonder.” Hosea’s story shows us that no matter how far we’ve strayed, God is ready to redeem and restore us.
But love doesn’t force itself. Jesus knocks at the door of your heart, waiting for you to respond. Are you running to things that leave you empty and enslaved? Or are you ready to accept the love of the Bridegroom who gave everything for you?
Responding to God’s Love
Jesus is calling each of us to walk down the aisle, to step into the freedom and joy of being loved by the Creator of the universe. Will you accept His invitation?
Whether you’ve known Him for years or are hearing His call for the first time, the message remains the same: God loves you, redeems you, and restores you.
Take this moment to reflect. The Bridegroom is waiting.