18. “Come on now, let’s discuss this!” says the Lord.“Though your sins are bright red,they will become as white as snow.Though they are dark red,they will become as white as wool.
19. If you are willing and obedient,you will eat the best from the land.
20. But if you refuse and rebel,you will be destroyed by swords.”The Lord has spoken.
21. How the faithful town has become a prostitute!She was full of justice,and righteousness lived in her.But now murderers live there!
22. Your silver is not pure.Your wine is watered down.
23. Your rulers are rebels, friends with thieves.They all love bribes and run after gifts.They never defend orphans.They don’t notice the widows’ pleas.
24. That’s why the Lord, the Lord of Armies, the Mighty One of Israel, says,“How horrible it will be when I take revenge on my opponents!I will avenge myself against my enemies.