Episode Summary: The BEMA Podcast Episode 427 - “Hosea — How Empty Is Empty?”

Release Date: December 5, 2024
Host: Marty Solomon
Co-Hosts: Brent Billings and Reed Dent
Guest: Reed Dent

Introduction

In Episode 427 of The BEMA Podcast, titled “Hosea — How Empty Is Empty?”, hosts Marty Solomon and Brent Billings delve into the prophetic messages of Hosea, exploring themes of futility, idolatry, and the intricate relationship between worship and politics. Joined by utility expert Reed Dent, the discussion navigates through historical contexts, biblical metaphors, and contemporary applications, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own spiritual and societal practices.

Main Discussion

**1. The Futility of Actions Without God

Brent Billings initiates the conversation by referencing Hosea’s prophecy, emphasizing the importance of having God at the center of repentance and righteous actions. He draws parallels to John 15, where Jesus states, “Apart from me, you can do nothing” (John 15:5), underscoring the futility of endeavors undertaken without divine guidance.

Brent Billings (02:00): "The futility of doing something. No matter how good, no matter how logical... if we do it without God, it's empty. And if it's empty, how. How empty is empty."

**2. Historical Context and Idolatry

The discussion shifts to the historical setting of Hosea, focusing on the northern kingdom of Israel, particularly Samaria. Marty Solomon explains the construction of altars in Dan and Bethel by King Jeroboam as political strategies that led to idolatrous practices, symbolized by the worship of golden calves. This act is portrayed as a compromise of Torah principles for political expediency.

Marty Solomon (05:00): "Jeroboam was setting up another kingdom, and rather than follow the ways of Torah, he was doing what seemed to him to be politically expedient... worship of BAAL symbolized by the bull worship of the God of Israel."

**3. Idolatry and Politics: A Two-Way Street

Reed Dent introduces a critical analysis of the intertwining between idolatry and politics, suggesting that political allegiances can become forms of idolatry when they overshadow genuine worship of God. He warns of the dangers inherent in placing ultimate trust and dependence on political figures or systems.

Reed Dent (09:20): "There is a political element to idolatry. There's also an idolatrous element to politics. The danger is really real for idolatry and government."

**4. Contemporary Reflections and Personal Accountability

The hosts reflect on contemporary society, particularly in the context of election years, where political divisions can strain familial and social relationships. They emphasize the necessity of self-criticism and communal reflection to avoid the pitfalls of idolatrous allegiance, advocating for open dialogues across different viewpoints to foster genuine faithfulness and unity.

Reed Dent (31:06): "Any people that has lost the capacity for self-criticism will become idolatrous. We need to have conversations together and correct one another."

**5. Sowing the Wind: Metaphors of Destruction

Brent Billings elaborates on the biblical metaphor of “sowing the wind and reaping the whirlwind” (Hosea 8:7), illustrating how futile and destructive efforts devoid of divine purpose can lead to greater chaos and self-destruction. The metaphor serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of persistent idolatrous actions.

Brent Billings (22:06): "The wind's just blowing in a circle and it's going. It's going nowhere, but you keep kind of feeding it. It keeps getting fed. And then it becomes this massive whirlwind cyclone that is now an unstoppable force."

Insights and Conclusions

**1. The Nature of Idolatry

The episode underscores that idolatry is not merely the worship of physical idols but extends to any form of ultimate allegiance that detracts from the worship of God. Whether through political systems, leaders, or societal norms, the danger lies in allowing these entities to assume the central role meant for divine worship.

Brent Billings (35:57): "Am I having a posture of allegiance or idolatrous worship that I need to be checked on?"

**2. Self-Reflection and Community Accountability

A recurring theme is the importance of self-awareness and accountability within a community. The hosts advocate for an environment where individuals can openly reflect on their practices and beliefs, ensuring that their actions align with their spiritual commitments rather than succumbing to societal pressures or political conveniences.

Reed Dent (32:57): "How are we participating in idolatry? Can we hear this? Are we too blinded? Have we forgotten our maker?"

**3. The Ongoing Relevance of Hosea

By dissecting Hosea’s messages, the episode highlights the timeless relevance of prophetic teachings. The issues addressed in ancient times mirror contemporary challenges, making Hosea’s insights crucial for modern listeners to navigate their spiritual and societal engagements.

Marty Solomon (26:56): "Did anybody have the ability, the guts, the presence to truly hear that word, hear the message, look at it, consider it, truly change their ways?"

Notable Quotes

• Brent Billings (02:00): "If we do it without God, it's empty. And if it's empty, how. How empty is empty."

• Reed Dent (09:20): "There is a political element to idolatry. There's also an idolatrous element to politics."

• Reed Dent (31:06): "Any people that has lost the capacity for self-criticism will become idolatrous."

• Brent Billings (22:06): "The wind's just blowing in a circle and it's going nowhere, but you keep kind of feeding it. It keeps getting fed."

Closing Remarks

In concluding the episode, the hosts reiterate the importance of self-criticism and communal reflection to combat idolatrous tendencies. They encourage listeners to engage in honest introspection and maintain genuine relationships that prioritize spiritual integrity over political or societal allegiance.

Marty Solomon (35:57): "Perhaps some reflection that we can do some self-criticism. And maybe we need to make some apologies over the Christmas dinner table for how we approach things or whatever."

Final Thoughts:

Episode 427 of The BEMA Podcast offers a profound exploration of Hosea’s prophecy, urging listeners to evaluate the authenticity of their actions and allegiances. By intertwining historical context with contemporary issues, the hosts provide a compelling narrative on the enduring battle against idolatry and the pursuit of genuine worship.

Connect with The BEMA Podcast:

For more insights and detailed discussions, visit baymontsypesurf.com to access show notes and additional resources, including photos from Tel Dan referenced in the episode.