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It is not only necessary to commence a religious course, but to continue in well doing unto the
end (Rev. 2:10). "O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee: O Judah, what
shall I do unto thee? For your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it passeth
away" (Hosea 6:4).
Israel and Judah had revolted from God and they had done so repeatedly. After presenting a promising aspect of piety, they turned aside like a deceitful rain cloud. God had been disappointed in their lack of genuine fruits of righteousness which, as their God, He had a right to expect. It often seems that Hosea was writing to people in our century. For, how often today do we learn of those who started out as faithful members of the body of Christ, then turned back to the beggarly elements of the world? (Gal. 4:9). It is sad that many today want tickled ears (2 Tim. 4:1-4) from the tinkling of a mechanical musical instrument more than simply lifting up their voices in unison and praise to our Great God. "Come ye out from among them and be ye separate, saith the Lord" (2 Cor. 6:17). |