Verses 3-8 indicate that the cause of Jehovah’s visitation (punishment) was that Israel was not one with God. They had their own intention, goal, and purpose, and God had His. But God revealed all His secrets to His prophets (v. 7). Israel, therefore, should have listened to the prophets.
Bethel had become a place for the worship of idols (1 Kings 12:25-33).
The winter house and the summer house were luxurious retreat houses. Here, such houses and the worship of idols are regarded as one thing. Those who went to the retreat houses for enjoyment were also those who worshipped idols at the altars of Bethel.
