The prophet Hosea used the tribe of Ephraim as a poetic representation of the northern kingdom of Israel. In Hosea's colorful admonition, Ephraim had become "a cake unturned" (Hos. 7:8).

In today's terminology, Hosea might have said that Ephraim was "half-baked." The people were like a pancake burned on one side but raw on the other. Although they took advantage of the Lord's goodness, they did not seek Him with their heart. When they needed help, they turned to other sources (vv.10-11,14-16). They had become tasteless and useless to God, so He was forced to judge them.

Jesus echoed the words of the prophet. Although He had gentle words for penitent sinners, He gave a scathing rebuke to the haughty and self-righteous who wanted to live as they pleased. He was furious at two-faced religious leaders who talked a good talk but turned around and exploited their followers (Mt. 23:13-30).

God is never soft on sin. He sent His only Son to redeem us from sin's penalty (Jn. 3:16). Let's not be half-baked Christians, claiming God's forgiveness but still living as we please. The only fitting response to God's mercy and grace is to serve Him in humility and love.  — Haddon W. Robinson