1. Ephraim worshiped idols and died (1-3)

When Israel worshiped God she was a powerful nation. When Israel worshiped Baal, she died. She lost her conscience and her national purpose. She even stooped to the depth of offering human sacrifices. So she would become like the chaff which the wind blows away.

2. Remember and repent (4-6)

God brought them out of Egypt. He cared for them in the desert. He is their only Savior; but people forget so quickly. God's people forgot as soon as they were fed and were satisfied.

3. God punishes and God redeems (7-16)

God's punishment would be like a lion that attacks and tears apart. He would destroy them. But even his most terrible punishment is to lead them to repentance; he longs to redeem and restore them (14).

Application: Lord, help me to remember your basic grace; you set me free from bondage to sin and gave me your life.
One Word: God is our only Savior