The book of Hosea, chapter 6, verse 6, clearly shows us what God desires from His people. The focus was not on the number of sacrifices they offered, but on the kindness and love they showed toward others.
What the Lord sought was mercy rather than sacrifice. The sin they walked in prevented them from understanding what God truly wanted from them, for sin blinds and leads people to do what does not please the Lord. And He expresses it clearly: “I want love, kindness from you—not empty sacrifices in the midst of your sin.”
The Lord spoke plainly about His desire and what He expected the people to do. That is why He rebukes them and reveals these truths through the book of Hosea:
For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.
Hosea 6:6
Doesn’t the same thing happen today? Don’t we also see that the church of Christ lacks these things? Have you noticed how many focus more on sacrifices and rituals than on the kindness and love that the Lord truly seeks?
In today’s world, many people believe their sacrifices—though empty of obedience, love, and mercy—are pleasing to the Lord. But that is not the case. It’s quite the opposite.
Remember what God seeks from His people. And if you discover that you are doing the opposite, then change and do what God desires of you: to be kind, merciful, and to show love to others, rather than offering empty sacrifices and burnt offerings.
To better understand this message, it is important to consider the historical context in which Hosea prophesied. The people of Israel were deeply involved in religious practices, offerings, and ceremonies. On the surface, it appeared that they were devoted to God. However, their hearts were far from Him. They practiced injustice, oppression, and unfaithfulness while continuing to present sacrifices at the altar, believing this would satisfy the Lord.
God makes it clear through Hosea that external religion without inner transformation is meaningless. Sacrifices, offerings, and rituals have value only when they flow from a heart that knows God and walks in His ways. Mercy, kindness, and love toward others reveal a genuine relationship with the Lord. Without these qualities, religious acts become empty and even offensive before God.
This teaching confronts us today in a powerful way. Many believers attend services regularly, participate in church activities, and make offerings, yet struggle to live out mercy in their daily lives. We may sing songs of worship while holding grudges, speak about faith while ignoring the needs of others, or pray fervently while acting unjustly. Hosea’s message reminds us that God sees beyond appearances and examines the heart.
The knowledge of God mentioned in this verse does not refer to intellectual understanding alone. It speaks of an intimate relationship built on obedience, trust, and love. To know God is to reflect His character in our actions. When we extend mercy, forgive others, act with compassion, and walk humbly, we demonstrate that we truly know Him.
Jesus Himself reaffirmed this truth during His ministry. When confronting religious leaders who were strict in rituals but lacked compassion, He reminded them of God’s desire for mercy. This shows that the message of Hosea is not limited to one period in history but remains relevant for every generation of believers.
Therefore, this passage invites us to examine our own lives. Are our acts of worship accompanied by a merciful heart? Do our words about faith align with our treatment of others? God calls His people to live out their faith in practical ways, showing love not only within the church but also in the world around them.
Let us respond to this call with humility. Instead of relying on outward expressions of devotion, let us seek a transformed heart that delights in mercy, kindness, and genuine love. When we live this way, our worship becomes pleasing to God, and our lives reflect the true knowledge of Him that He desires above all else.