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They shall go with their flocks and with their herds to seek Yahweh; but they shall not find him: he has withdrawn himself from them.

Verse Takeaways

1

God Wants Your Heart, Not Just Your Rituals

Commentators unanimously point out that Israel's problem wasn't a lack of religious activity. They brought abundant sacrifices, but their hearts were unrepentant. Scholars like Calvin explain that God desires a spiritual relationship, not just external rites. These actions, without sincere faith and a changed heart, were seen by God as a hollow mockery, leading Him to withdraw His presence.

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Book Overview

Hosea

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Commentaries

5

Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes

On Hosea 5:6

18th Century

Theologian

They shall go with their flocks - “They had let slip the day of grace, in which God had called them to repentance, and promised to …

Charles Ellicott

Charles Ellicott

On Hosea 5:6

19th Century

Bishop

The vain effort to repent when it is too late. The spirit with which sacrifices of flocks and herds were offered is of more consequence than the mu…

John Calvin

John Calvin

On Hosea 5:6

16th Century

Theologian

The Prophet here scorns the hypocrisy of the people, because they thought they had a ready way to deal with God: to pacify Him with their sacrifice…

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John Gill

John Gill

On Hosea 5:6

17th Century

Pastor

They shall go with their flocks and with their herds to seek
the Lord

Not only the …

Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry

On Hosea 5:1–7

17th Century

Minister

The piercing eye of God saw the secret liking and disposition to sin, the love the house of Israel had for their sins, and the dominion their sins …