This week on the podcast, we dive into the books of Hosea and Joel, exploring their historical context, challenging metaphors, and theological implications. The discussion covers the uncomfortable themes present in Hosea, including the metaphor of marriage and adultery as it relates to Israel's relationship with God, and the societal context of ancient marriage. The team also unpacks the concept of the "Day of the Lord" in Joel, its significance in both Old and New Testament theology, and how communal lament is a recurring biblical theme.

Key topics include:

• The historical setting of Hosea
• The metaphor of marriage and its implications for understanding God’s relationship with Israel
• The use of covenant lawsuits in Hosea
• The influence of Canaanite religion and Baal worship
• The challenge of interpreting violent or troubling metaphors in scripture
• The "Day of the Lord" in Joel and its echoes in the New Testament
• The evolution of eschatological (end times) thought, including the origins of the rapture concept
• The importance of communal lament in times of crisis

Resources & Further Reading

• The Woman’s Bible Commentary, edited by Carol Newsom

Cross Connections is a ministry of ⁠⁠St. David’s Episcopal Church in Wayne, PA⁠⁠. Season two, Cover to Cover is hosted by the Rev. Rick Morley, Elliot VanHoy, and Natalee Hill.

A full copy list of readings for 2025 may be found on our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://stdavidschurch.org/crossconnections⁠⁠⁠ ⁠If you have questions for us, you can call us at 484.588.5656 and leave a voicemail with your name, where you’re from, and your question or comment. Please note, we may use your recorded voice in an upcoming episode of Cross Connections. You can also email us at ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠.

Logo graphic design and podcast production by Natalee Hill. Stock Media Music provided by Marscott and MoodMode / ⁠⁠Pond5⁠⁠.

You are welcome to learn more about all of St. David’s worship offerings and ministries at ⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://stdavidschurch.org/⁠⁠⁠.