BIG IDEA
God restores both our identity and our spirit, transforming us from slaves to children who actually want to live as His own.
KEY VERSES
Hosea 1:9-10
"Name him Lo-ammi—'Not my people'—for Israel is not my people, and I am not their God. Yet the time will come when Israel's people will be like the sands of the seashore—too many to count! Then, at the place where they were told, 'You are not my people,' it will be said, 'You are children of the living God.'"
Hosea 11:1,3
"When Israel was a child, I loved him... I myself taught Israel how to walk, leading him along by the hand."
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Juan talked about how we often describe ourselves through things like jobs, hobbies, and relationships. What are some ways you typically describe yourself to others? Why do you choose those specific things to share?
The sermon describes a shift from 'have to' to 'want to' in our relationship with God. Think about a relationship in your life that changed from obligation to genuine care - what caused that shift? How does this relate to our relationship with God?
We heard about how Hosea bought Gomer back despite her choices. When it comes to forgiveness and restoration, what makes it so hard to accept love from someone after we've hurt them? What might this reveal about how we view God's love?
Juan mentioned how 'we are all going to serve something.' Looking at your own life, what things compete for first place in your priorities? What makes these things so attractive?
The sermon ended with the idea that we are 'a new creation purchased at a price that none of us could pay.' How should knowing this change how we live our daily lives? What specific things might look different?