Matthew Poole and continuators on Hosea 13:1

WHen Ephraim spake , trembling , he exalted himself in Israel ; but when he offended in Baal , he died .

So soon as, or according as Heb. phrase bears it, and implieth, there was a time when according to the word of Ephraim there was deep impression on the hearers.

Ieroboam son of Nebat an Ephraimite say some, but this is wide of Truth, nor suits the text which refers to their worshipping of Baal, and this came into use in Israel in Ahab's time, 1 Kings 16.31. his wife Iezabel, daughter to Ethbaal King of the Zidonians prevailed with him to take her Country Idol and adde to Ieroboam's Calves. Ephraim here is either the Tribe of Ephraim which was of all the Ten Tribes most powerful, and when angry and discontented made the other tribes afraid; or rather the whole Kingdom of Israel called frequently in Hosea, Ephraim.

When he consulted, commanded, threatned, or sent out his Proclamation, 'tis a speaking like a King, or Kingdoms speaking, which is back'd with power sufficient to act as they speak.

The Tribes, and the neighbouring Kingdoms apprehended danger, were put into a fear of the consequence too, all men felt a commotion within them. Such once was the Authority, Power, and Glory of Ephraim.

Was magnified, advanced, and made glorious, the Kingdom flourish'd in multitudes of People, in abundance of Wealth, in the successes of their counsels, and in their credit abroad. In this flourishing state Ephraim a principal Tribe, and which first set up for the Royal Dignity and carried it had principal share, and is said to exalt him in, or with Israel.

So soon as he sinned.

By taking Baal to be their God, added this Idolatry to their former sins.

Undid himself, lost his Power, Glory and Bravery, as a dead man.