Matthew Henry's Complete Bible Commentary

Hosea 12

In this chapter we have, I. A high charge drawn up against both Israel and Judah for their sins, which were the ground of God’s controversy with them, Hosea 12:1, 12:2. Particularly the sin of fraud and injustice, which Ephraim is charged with (Hosea 12:7), and justifies himself in, Hosea 12:8. And the sin of idolatry (Hosea 12:11), by which God is provoked to contend with them, Hosea 12:14. II. The aggravations of the sins they are charged with, taken from the honour God put upon their father Jacob (Hosea 12:3-12:5), the advancement of them into a people from low and mean beginnings (Hosea 12:12, 12:13), and the provision he had made them of helps for their souls by the prophets he sent them, Hosea 12:10. III. A call to the unconverted to turn to God, Hosea 12:6. IV. An intimation of mercy that God had in store for them, Hosea 12:9. MHBCC 875.1