Romancing Gomer - Nasty Names

What the Old Testament book of Hosea shows us about the character and grace of God.

Digging Deeper Into Hosea:

Icebreaker: What was a name you were called growing up? How did it affect you?

Where is it Written?
Read Hosea 1.
Why was God so angry with the nation of Isreal?
What names are Hosea told to give his children?
What does each name mean? What point is God trying to make with each?
What effect do you imagine those names had on these children growing up?

Re-read Hosea 1:10 - 2:1
What does God do with each of the children's names?

Read Ephesians 1:3-8
What benefits do we receive from being "in Christ?" (Make a list)
How does being in Christ change our identity?

How Goes Your Walk?
How has your relationship with Jesus changed your sense of self-identity?
Would you say that you are "in Christ?" Why or why not?
How does (or how might) knowing that you are in Christ change you? In emotions? In actions?