When a baby is born, there is a sin principle in the baby, but unable to sin for a period. That could be termed as innocence. As the child grows, learns about good and evil, commits sin. Some scholars consider that children until they complete twelve, are considered to be at the age of innocence. God speaks through Hosea about Israel: How long will they be incapable of innocence? (Hosea 8:5)
Broken Covenant: The Israelites did not value, esteem, regard and celebrate the Holy Covenant God with them. They rejected and broke the covenant, though they were beneficiaries and indeed blessed by the Lord. (Hosea 8:1)
Revolted against Law: As people of today think the law is not good, restricts freedom, and is not essential; so, did the Israelite rebel against God’s Law. (Hosea 8:1) For them it was a strange thing. (Hosea 8:12) Instead of loving God and obeying His commandments, thus they rejected His Law and spurned His Love for them.
Created own gods: God graciously revealed Himself to this chosen Nation. They rejected the living God and chose non-living entities created by their own hands with perishable material as gods. (Hosea 8:4) It is not ignorance, but rather willful rebellion against God.
Chose wrong leaders: The Nation chose kings or rulers or leaders who were not righteous and worshippers of living God. (Hosea 8:4)
Become like children: Lord Jesus Christ taught: “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3) Israel was incapable of innocence, Lord invites his disciples to be innocent like a child. Lord also taught his disciples to be innocent as doves. (Matthew 10:16)
Innocent as doves: Generally, a dove is considered a symbol of love and peace. Doves are also considered harmless and gentle. Believers should not give any opportunity to allow enemies to accuse them of injustice, unrighteousness, and immorality. It also means bearing the Fruit of the Spirit, with the aid of the Holy Spirit who is represented as a dove. (Galatians 5:22-23)
Am I innocent like a dove?