A couple, both graduates, had two sons. Both parents and children were very regular in church attendance. Both sons used to participate in all events, Sunday School, Vacation bible schools, retreats…etc. However, the parents were ambitious that children should excel in their studies, get a scholarship to study overseas, and land up in high-paying jobs in the West. When the elder son reached eighth grade, they stopped him from attending Sunday School so that he could attend coaching classes on Sundays too. As disciplinarians, they were strict like military officers and gave no room for disobedience or lapses. However, the elder son did not do well as expected. Yet, he was sent to an expensive private college so that he could excel and go to the West. Sadly, the boy did not do well, became a drug addict, and committed suicide.
Warning: God warned through Hosea: “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because you have rejected knowledge, I reject you from being a priest to me. And since you have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.” (Hosea 4:6)
Lack of knowledge: The fear of God is the source of all knowledge. (Proverbs 9:10) Reverential studying of the Bible gives wisdom. When there is no regard for God, His Word, the knowledge of God disappears.
Reject knowledge: The Nation of Israel thought they could reject knowledge, yet keep the relationship with God, and enjoy his protection, preservation, and provision.
Reject being a priest: When there is no relationship with God and when there is no knowledge about God, how could the Israelites be the priest of God? God had to reject them being the priest, who could represent God to people and people to God.
Forgotten Law: Worse, the Nation of Israel forgot that Mosaic Law exists. Total disregard for the Law, made them forget the Law of the Lord.
Forgotten children: The result is dangerous and disastrous. God will simply forget the next generation. The children lose their covenant blessing, and promises as these are linked to the Law of the Lord.
Have I rejected the Bible?