THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
In the case of Hosea, I wish to add just one more observation before concluding my thoughts. What is this addition? It pertains to the inquiry made earlier: why does the prophet, rather than referring to the reign of the king as is typical in prophetic accounts, instead note the time of King Hosea's death, saying, “in the year of the death of king Hosea”? (Isaiah 6:1) Although he could have alluded to the reigning monarch as was customary among prophets, he chose not to. Why was that?
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It was the ancient custom to expel lepers from the city to promote the well-being of the community, ensuring the afflicted were spared from mockery and scorn, allowing them the solitude of their misfortunes. This king, having suffered from leprosy, ought to have faced similar treatment, yet he did not; the citizens were afraid of his authority and clandestinely sheltered him within his palace. This provoked the Lord’s displeasure, halting prophetic utterance, much like during Elijah’s time when “the word of the Lord was rare in those days, visions were not frequent” (1 Kings 3:1).
Yet, we can observe God's mercy in this situation. He did not destroy the cities or annihilate the people. Like a friend who refrains from voicing reproaches against an equal, God remained silent with a people who deserved far greater retribution. He expressed, “I cast him out of the sanctuary,” while they did not expel him from the city; I afflicted him with leprosy and reduced him to a private citizen, yet you lacked the courage to drive out one whom I had condemned.
What ruler could endure such a situation without exacting vengeance, especially considering that he who was commanded to leave the city remained there? However, God's responses reflect His divine nature, distinct from human rage. When the king passed away, God also turned away from His anger and reopened the channels of prophecy, allowing it to flow once more to them. This illustrates the reconciliatory nature of God.
Upon honest examination, it seems unjust that reconciliation occurred at that moment. Why so? It was not their righteousness that led to the expulsion of Ozias. It was not their actions that drove him out, but the natural course of death that claimed him. Yet God's desire is not for harsh judgment against us; rather, He seeks reconciliation. Thus, let us offer our gratitude and praise for His immeasurable compassion, which we can all partake in through the grace and generosity of His only begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. May glory, power, and honor be ascribed to the Father and the Holy Spirit, now and forever, and unto ages of ages. Amen.