This week we explore some questions related to the identity and purpose of the “little book”. What is this little book exactly, why did God feed it to him, and how is this even relevant for us today? John must “eat Revelation” in order to really digest what is contained within it. Then and only then can he take it and share it with others. The same holds true for us today. We must devour this book, all of it!
In a world full of confusion and shifting values, God’s Word is the firm foundation we need.
In today’s passage it begins with a thanksgiving. Specifically, a thanksgiving expressed by Paul which details his conviction that the word of God worked in a mighty way in the lives of the Jesus-followers he’s writing to in Thessalonica. This “word of God” certainly includes scripture, but because the New Testament wasn’t complete in Paul’s day in the way we have it today, it also can encompass the message of the Good News itself as well as the God-given truths proclaimed and passed on by His prophets and preachers. The ability of the word to “go to work” among God’s people was not merely something the church in Thessalonica experienced and enjoyed, but something even today’s church can experience and enjoy!
Last week’s passage made clear that judgment is coming for the Israelite people. God has said so, and what He says will be so. But God continued to talk through Hosea, and what He says in Hosea 1:10-2:1 brings HOPE, even in the midst of impending judgment. So, based on what is said here, we can be hopeful in a number of ways. Namely, that God will keep His words of promise as much He keeps His words of judgment; that judgment can be reversed; and that He has a good plan for His people.
This week we introduce the series on Hosea. It’s not primarily the prophets who speak but God. This book is not just for the Israelites but us as well.