This is one of the most graphic and unpleasant-to-read chapters in the Bible. The kingdom of northern Israel, called “Samaria” after its capital, and the southern kingdom of Judah are compared to two sisters who both engaged in prostitution. It shows that forsaking God to turn to idols is like the sin of adultery in all its lewdness and uncleanness.

After Samaria was destroyed by the Assyrians, the people of Judah and Jerusalem may have felt that they were superior to the Samaritans. But in the end, they were worse, because they engaged in the same idolatrous behavior even after they had seen its consequences for their neighbors. The Lord declares that his judgment will finally put an end to lewdness in the land (48-49).
Application: Father, help me never forget the seriousness of the sin of idolatry. I have seen its consequences in others’ lives. Help me take warning.
One Word: Idolatry is spiritual adultery