When God's People Follow After Other Lovers

TITLE: WHEN GOD'S PEOPLE FOLLOW AFTER
OTHER LOVERS (1642)
William Kiffin, Hosea 2:7-8

Originally titled 'Certain Observations upon Hosea, the Second Chapter.'

Read by Jeff Massey

William Kiffin was an influential leader among the 17th century English Particular Baptists. Kiffin served as a pastor of the Devonshire Square Church in London from 1644-1701 and he represented that church at the 1689 General Assembly, which adopted what has become known as the 1689 London Baptist Confession. Kiffin was also highly favored by King Charles II and used his considerable influence to bring relief to many Baptists who were being persecuted in his day.

In this sermon, Kiffin declares the sad truth that God's people have been known to follow or chase after other lovers, or other Gods, and he explains why this is so. However, Kiffin's main purpose is to proclaim that God does not permit His people to stray from Him for long, because He employs means, oftentimes troubles and afflictions, to cause His people to return to their 'true' husband and to realize how good it is to be under His loving care. This sermon is a timely warning to us not to stray from the fold of God, nor to begin questioning God's continual goodness to us.