\\INTRODUCTION TO HOSEA 13\\

This chapter begins with observing the different state and condition of
Ephraim before and after his idolatry, \\#Ho 13:1\\; his increase in it,
\\#Ho 13:2\\; and therefore his prosperity was very short lived, which is
signified by various metaphors, \\#Ho 13:3\\; and his sins are aggravated
by the former goodness of God unto him his great ingratitude unto God,
and forgetfulness him, \\#Ho 13:4-6\\; hence he is threatened with his
wrath and vengeance in a very severe manner, \\#Ho 13:7,8\\; for which he
had none to blame but himself; yea, such was the grace and goodness of
God to him, that though he had destroyed himself, yet there were help
and salvation for him in him, \\#Ho 13:9\\; though not in his king he had
desired, and was given, and was took away in wrath, \\#Ho 13:10,11\\; but
his sin being bound up and hid, and he foolish and unwise, sharp
corrections would be given him, \\#Ho 13:12,13\\; and yet a gracious
promise is made of redemption from death and the grave by the Messiah,
\\#Ho 13:14\\; but, notwithstanding this, and all his present prosperity,
he would be blasted in his wealth and riches; and Samaria the
metropolis of his country would he desolate; and the inhabitants of it
be used in the most cruel manner, because of their rebellion against
God, \\#Ho 13:15,16\\.