Hosea 8:4

They set up kings, but not by Me. They make princes, but without My approval. With their silver and gold they make themselves idols, to their own destruction.

Study Bible

They set up kings
In this phrase, the Hebrew root word for "set up" is "שׂוּם" (sum), which means to appoint or establish. Historically, the Israelites often sought to establish their own leaders without seeking God's guidance or approval. This reflects a recurring theme in the Old Testament where the people of Israel would choose leaders based on their desires rather than divine direction. The act of setting up kings without God's consent demonstrates a reliance on human wisdom and political maneuvering, which often led to spiritual and national decline.

but not by Me
This phrase underscores the absence of divine approval in the selection of these kings. The Hebrew word "לֹא" (lo) is a strong negation, emphasizing that God was not involved in their decision-making process. In a conservative Christian perspective, this highlights the importance of seeking God's will in leadership and governance. It serves as a reminder that human authority should be aligned with divine purpose, and when it is not, it leads to chaos and judgment.

They appoint princes
The term "appoint" here is derived from the Hebrew "שָׂרִים" (sarim), meaning to choose or select leaders. This reflects the people's initiative to establish their own hierarchy and governance structures. In the historical context of Israel, this often meant aligning with foreign powers or adopting pagan practices to secure political stability. From a conservative viewpoint, this illustrates the danger of compromising spiritual integrity for political gain.

but without My approval
The phrase "without My approval" indicates a lack of divine endorsement. The Hebrew word "יָדַע" (yada) means to know or acknowledge, suggesting that God was neither consulted nor acknowledged in their decisions. This serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of ignoring God's guidance. In the broader biblical narrative, it is a call to prioritize God's wisdom over human ambition, recognizing that true leadership is rooted in obedience to God's will.

With their silver and gold
This phrase highlights the use of wealth and resources in the pursuit of power. The mention of "silver and gold" suggests that the people were investing their material wealth in political alliances and idol worship. In the ancient Near Eastern context, wealth was often used to secure political favor or to create idols. From a conservative Christian perspective, this serves as a warning against the idolatry of materialism and the misuse of resources that should be dedicated to God's service.

they make idols for themselves
The act of making idols is a direct violation of the first and second commandments, which prohibit the worship of other gods and the creation of graven images. The Hebrew word for "idols" is "עֲצַבִּים" (atsabbim), which can also mean "troubles" or "sorrows," indicating the spiritual and emotional burden that idolatry brings. This phrase serves as a powerful reminder of the futility and destructiveness of idolatry, urging believers to remain faithful to the one true God.

to their own destruction
The phrase "to their own destruction" is a sobering conclusion to the verse. The Hebrew word "שָׁחַת" (shachat) means to corrupt or ruin, indicating that the people's actions were leading them toward inevitable ruin. This serves as a prophetic warning that turning away from God and relying on human strength and idolatry ultimately leads to downfall. From a conservative Christian perspective, it is a call to repentance and a return to God's ways, emphasizing that true security and prosperity come from obedience to God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Hosea
A prophet in the Northern Kingdom of Israel, called by God to deliver messages of warning and hope to the Israelites.

2. Israel
The Northern Kingdom, often rebelling against God and engaging in idolatry during Hosea's time.

3. Kings and Princes
Leaders established by the people of Israel without seeking God's guidance or approval.

4. Idols
Objects of worship made from silver and gold, representing the people's departure from worshiping the true God.

5. God
The sovereign Lord who desires His people to seek His will in all matters, including leadership and worship.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Leadership
Recognize that God desires to be involved in the selection of leaders. We should seek His guidance in leadership decisions, both in personal and communal contexts.

The Danger of Idolatry
Understand that idolatry is not just the worship of physical idols but can also be anything that takes the place of God in our lives. Reflect on what modern "idols" might be present in our lives.

Consequences of Disobedience
Acknowledge that actions taken without God's approval can lead to destruction. This serves as a warning to align our decisions with God's will.

The Importance of Seeking God's Approval
Emphasize the need for prayer and discernment in all decisions, ensuring they align with God's purposes and commands.

Repentance and Return to God
Encourage turning away from self-made idols and returning to a faithful relationship with God, seeking His forgiveness and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern examples of "kings" or "princes" that we might set up without seeking God's approval, and how can we ensure our choices align with His will?

2. How does the theme of idolatry in Hosea 8:4 relate to the idolatry described in Exodus 32 and 1 Kings 12, and what lessons can we learn from these accounts?

3. In what ways can we identify and remove idols from our lives today, ensuring that God remains our primary focus?

4. How does Proverbs 3:5-6 challenge us to change our approach to decision-making, especially in leadership and personal choices?

5. Reflect on a time when a decision made without seeking God's guidance led to negative consequences. What steps can you take to seek God's approval in future decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

1 Samuel 8
The Israelites demand a king to be like other nations, rejecting God as their king. This passage highlights the beginning of Israel's pattern of choosing leaders without God's approval.

Exodus 32
The making of the golden calf by the Israelites, illustrating the recurring theme of idolatry and its consequences.

1 Kings 12
Jeroboam's establishment of golden calves in Bethel and Dan, showing the continuation of idolatry in the Northern Kingdom.

Romans 1:21-23
Paul describes humanity's tendency to exchange the glory of God for images, connecting to the theme of idolatry and its destructive nature.

Proverbs 3:5-6
Encourages trusting in the Lord and seeking His guidance, contrasting with Israel's actions in Hosea 8:4.