The only consensus that has been reached on Hosea 1-3 is that it is a notoriously 'problematic' text. Sherwood unpicks this rather vague statement by examining the particular complexities of the text and frictions between the text and reader that conspire to produce such a disorientating effect. Four dimensions of the 'problem' are considered: the conflict between text and reader over the 'improper' relationship between Hosea and Gomer; the bizarre prophetic sign-language that conscripts people into a cosmic charade; the text's propensity to subvert its central theses; and the emergent tensions between the feminist reader and the text. Aiming to bring together literary criticism and biblical scholarship, this book provides lucid introductions to ideological criticism, semiotics, deconstruction and feminist criticism, and looks at the implications of these approaches not only for the book of Hosea but for biblical studies in general.
Introducing "From Prostitute to Prophet," a groundbreaking memoir that unveils the remarkable journey of redemption and restoration. This captivating book explores the extraordinary transformation of a former prostitute into a powerful prophet, showcasing the awe-inspiring capabilities of God. Through raw honesty and vulnerability, the author shares her deeply personal experiences, revealing the depths of darkness she once dwelled in and the miraculous intervention that led her to a life of purpose. In this memoir, readers will gain a profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals caught in the cycle of prostitution, shedding light on the underlying factors that contribute to this devastating reality. The author delves into the psychological and emotional toll that such a lifestyle takes, painting a vivid picture of the desperation and hopelessness that can consume a person's existence. However, this book is not solely focused on the past. It offers a beacon of hope for those who have lost their way, emphasizing the transformative power of faith and God's unwavering love. The author's journey from the darkest depths to becoming a prophet serves as a testament to the boundless mercy and grace of God. "From Prostitute to Prophet" is not just a memoir; it is a call to action. It challenges society to confront the harsh realities faced by those trapped in the world of prostitution and to understanding how they got there. The author's story serves as a reminder that no one is beyond redemption and that everyone has a chance at restoration. With its gripping narrative and powerful message, this memoir will leave readers inspired, motivated, and equipped with a newfound understanding of the resilience of the human spirit. It is a testament to the strength and determination it takes to overcome adversity and find purpose in life. "From Prostitute to Prophet" is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration, hope, and a deeper understanding of the transformative power of faith. It is a book that will challenge preconceived notions, ignite conversations, and ultimately inspire change. Prepare to be moved, uplifted, and forever changed by this extraordinary story of redemption and restoration.
This updated edition of Köstenberger and Jones's landmark work tackles the latest debates and cultural challenges to God's plan for marriage and the family and urges a return to a biblical foundation.
Reflecting on forty years of matrimony, John Piper exalts the biblical meaning of marriage over its emotion, exhorting couples to keep their covenant for all the best reasons. Even in the days when people commonly stayed married "'til death do us part," there has never been a generation whose view of marriage was high enough, says Pastor John Piper. That is all the more true in our casual times. Though personal selfishness and cultural bondage obstruct the wonder of God's purpose, it is found in God's Word, where his design can awaken a glorious vision capable of freeing every person from small, Christ-ignoring, romance-intoxicated views. As Piper explains in reflecting on forty years of matrimony: "Most foundationally, marriage is the doing of God. And ultimately, marriage is the display of God. It displays the covenant-keeping love between Christ and his people to the world in a way that no other event or institution does. Marriage, therefore, is not mainly about being in love. It's mainly about telling the truth with our lives. And staying married is not about staying in love. It is about keeping covenant and putting the glory of Christ's covenant-keeping love on display." This Momentary Marriage unpacks the biblical vision, its unexpected contours, and its weighty implications for married, single, divorced, and remarried alike.
The NIV Application Commentary helps you communicate and apply biblical text effectively in today's context. To bring the ancient messages of the Bible into today's world, each passage is treated in three sections: Original Meaning. Concise exegesis to help readers understand the original meaning of the biblical text in its historical, literary, and cultural context. Bridging Contexts. A bridge between the world of the Bible and the world of today, built by discerning what is timeless in the timely pages of the Bible. Contemporary Significance. This section identifies comparable situations to those faced in the Bible and explores relevant application of the biblical messages. The author alerts the readers of problems they may encounter when seeking to apply the passage and helps them think through the issues involved. This unique, award-winning commentary is the ideal resource for today's preachers, teachers, and serious students of the Bible, giving them the tools, ideas, and insights they need to communicate God's Word with the same powerful impact it had when it was first written.
Why would God ask one of his prophets to marry a prostitute? Because he wanted to teach Hosea and Israel a painful yet joyous lesson. Derek Kidner takes us through the unfolding story of Hosea and Gomer, explaining the basic message, pointing out its subtleties, and encouraging us to live lives worthy of the God who loves the loveless.
Designed to strengthen the global church with a widely accessible, theologically sound, and pastorally wise resource for understanding and applying the overarching storyline of the Bible, this commentary series features the full text of the ESV Bible passage by passage, with crisp and theologically rich exposition and application. Editors Iain M. Duguid, James M. Hamilton, and Jay A. Sklar have gathered a team of experienced pastor-theologians to provide a new generation of pastors and other teachers of the Bible around the world with a globally minded commentary series rich in biblical theology and broadly Reformed doctrine, making the message of redemption found in all of Scripture clear and available to all. Thirteen contributors explain the shorter Prophetic Books of the Old Testament—Daniel, Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi—with biblical insight and pastoral wisdom, showing readers the hope that is offered even amidst judgment. Contributors include: Mitchell L. Chase George Schwab Allan M. Harman Michael G. McKelvey Max Rogland Jay Sklar Stephen J. Dempster Daniel Timmer David G. Firth Jason S. DeRouchie Michael Stead Anthony R. Petterson Eric Ortlund
NATIONAL BESTSELLER • NOW A MAJOR MOTION PICTURE starring Abigail Cowen, Tom Lewis, Nina Dobrev, with Logan Marshall Green and Eric Dane, special appearance by Famke Janssen. Distributed by Universal Pictures with a screenplay by Francine Rivers and D.J. Caruso. California’s gold country, 1850. A time when men sold their souls for a bag of gold and women sold their bodies for a place to sleep. Angel expects nothing from men but betrayal. Sold into prostitution as a child, she survives by keeping her hatred alive. And what she hates most are the men who use her, leaving her empty and dead inside. Then she meets Michael Hosea, a man who seeks his Father’s heart in everything. Michael obeys God’s call to marry Angel and to love her unconditionally. Slowly, day by day, he defies Angel’s every bitter expectation, until despite her resistance, her frozen heart begins to thaw. But with her unexpected softening comes overwhelming feelings of unworthiness and fear. And so Angel runs. Back to the darkness, away from her husband’s pursuing love, terrified of the truth she no longer can deny: her final healing must come from the One who loves her even more than Michael does . . . the One who will never let her go. A powerful retelling of the story of Gomer and Hosea, Redeeming Love is a life-changing story of God’s unconditional, redemptive, all-consuming love. Includes a six-part reading group guide!
