He who understands the meaning of this sentence is a theologian, and he who can dive into its fullness is a true master in Israel. It is a condensation of the glorious message of salvation which was delivered to us in Christ Jesus our Redeemer. The sense hinges on the word "freely." This is the glorious, suitable, divine way by which love streams from heaven to earth. It is a spontaneous love flowing forth to those who neither deserved it, purchased it, or sought after it. It is, indeed, the only way in which God can love us. "I will love them freely." Now, if there were any fitness necessary in us then He would not love us freely. But it stands, "I will love you freely." We complain, "Lord, my heart is so hard, and I do not feel my need of Christ. I do not feel that softening of spirit which I should desire." Remember, there are no conditions. The covenant of grace has no conditionality whatever. We, without any worthiness, may venture on the promise of God which was made to us in Christ Jesus when He said, "He that believeth on him is not condemned" (John 3: 18). It is blessed to know that the grace of God is free to us at all times, without preparation, fitness, money, or price! "I will love them freely." These words invite backsliders to return. Indeed, the text was especially written for such--"I will heal their backsliding; I will love them freely" (Hosea 14: 4). Backslider, surely the generosity of the promise will at once break your heart, and you will return and seek your Father's face.