The sin of the nation deserved judgement and received judgement. That is why Hosea had to give his children these terrible names. It is true of the whole human race, we all deserved judgement and received judgement (though not in full). But that is not the end. Now God tells Hosea to tell those who are "not my people" and " not loved" that they are indeed His people and are loved. There is judgement and restoration. Any understanding of God that neglects judgement is deficient.
We then get more of the judgement. God is addressing the children here. They are to tell their mother that she is no longer God's wife. It was essential for her to remove her unfaithfulness and adultery. Likewise, repentance is essential to becoming part of God's kingdom.
Israel had gone "after her lovers", instead of seeking God. This is a reference to Israel seeking to make alliances with other nations to help protect herself, instead of seeking help from the Lord her God. Now the threats from these nations were real, nonetheless Israel should have turned only to God.
The allegory of adultery is used because the pressure and desire to make alliances was strong, just as emotions and lust can be strong. Israel could expect no blessing from God for the results of these alliances. We all too easily do something against God's ways, and then still expect Him to bless these projects.
God would force Israel to realise the futility of her ways, but this would be a long and tortuous path.
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