Our exposition of Hosea continues, with reference to a number of other Old Testament passages of Scripture. One audience question arose, having to do with the nature of demonic influence on people who practiced idolatry. This brought up the issue of the stubbornness of the human nature which does such things even when the care of God has been clearly manifested.

After reading of Jeremiah 38 and 39, Pastor Postiff answered some Bible questions. Included were questions (1) about the KJV translation of Hosea 2:16 with the words "Ishi" and "Baali"; (2) about why the Lord commanded the crowd to stay quiet about the healing that He had just performed and why then the people did not obey Him; (3) about why the demon in Mark 9 did not immediately leave the boy when the Lord commanded him to do so; (4) about where demons go after they are cast out; (5) and a general question about demons, demonic influence, the relationship of a Christian believer to demons, societal influence of demons, and the like.

We continue our study of Paul's apostolic helpers by looking at Aristarchus, John Mark (the cousin of Barnabas), Jesus Justus, Epaphras, Luke, and Demas. Two stories come to the fore: about Mark's departure from Christian work and subsequent restoration; and Demas's departure without a restoration. Listen in for encouragement in the midst of failure, and warning to avoid apostasy.

Brother Widgeon continues teaching through Hosea, moving into chapters 3 and 4.

About 15 years ago Pastor Saxe preached on this section of Scripture and titled it "Apostolic Partners." That title captured my attention and for some reason I never forgot it. As I think on it now, the title interested my mind because it spoke of a team effort, of fellowship in the work of the gospel, of partnership, of a precious inter-personal relationship that was shared between Paul and his co-workers, and of people instead of just doctrines or ideas. Such special team partnerships are part of our own experience in this church and in our sister churches.

In this message, we examine this passage afresh, looking at reasons why we should study a section of the Bible on greetings: after all, it doesn't seem very important. But we will see that the examples of faith that we see here are important models for us to follow.

We review Hosea again and continue into chapter 2 and 3. An emphasis is made on God's betrothal of Israel, her unfaithfulness, and His readiness to take her back again.

Pastor Postiff answers Bible questions about Genesis 4:7, the nature of the Holy Spirit's ministry in the Old Testament compared to His New Covenant ministry (Prov. 1:23 was one passage we examined), how the Spirit's work of rebirth is related to the Old Testament's New Covenant promises (Ezekiel 36:24-27), and a continuation in our study of Ecclesiastes 4. Despite Qohelet's depressive mode in the opening verses of chapter 4, we understand that there is a very great good to living, and that is that we can fellowship with Jesus Christ. Apart from God, this perspective does not become evident.

The previous verses have addressed specific matters of personal conduct, conduct in the church, life in the family and home, and toward God in prayer. The last general instruction in the letter (before greetings and final words) has to do with our conduct toward those who are outside the church.

Deacon Widgeon advances our study of Hosea into chapter 2.

We continued our study of Ecclesiastes 3. We thought about the rhythm of life in the opening verses of chapter 3 last time. But now we see God's perspective on life, in which his actions are forever. Furthermore, the text considers the problem of wickedness in places where righteousness is supposed to be. Finally, Solomon considers the matter of the great likeness of people and animals.