Warnings for the Religious

Hosea 8:1 Set the trumpet to thy mouth. He shall come as an eagle against the house of the Lord, because they have transgressed my covenant, and trespassed against my law.

We see that Israel was comfortable in their religious traditions and and used the promises of God as an excuse to sin.

I. Salvation of the soul does not mean there are no consequences for sin. V. 2

A. Pursued by God.

B. Pursued by haters of God.

II. Our works of righteousness are insufficient. V. 6

A. Man made religion will not last.

Adrian Rogers Many of us talk a good religion. We’re like the young man who called his girlfriend and said, “Sweetheart, you are so precious to me. I love you so much. I’d fight wild beast to be by your side. I’d tread on broke glass to hold your hand. And if it doesn’t rain, I’m going to come over and see you tomorrow night.

B. Man made religion will bring shame. v.8

III. Religion, apart from God, will leave you empty. V. 9,10

A. It will cause you to seek self-gratification.

B. It will lead you to seek self-righteousness. v.11

They had made their own alters for sacrifice. We will never be justified in our own actions and deeds apart from Jesus.