18. “Come, let us discuss this,” says the Lord.“Though your sins are like scarlet,they will be as white as snow; though they are as red as crimson,they will be like wool.
19. If you are willing and obedient,you will eat the good things of the land.
20. But if you refuse and rebel,you will be devoured by the sword.” For the mouth of the Lord has spoken.
21. The faithful city —what an adulteress she has become!She was once full of justice.Righteousness once dwelt in her —but now, murderers!
22. Your silver has become dross, your beer is diluted with water.
23. Your rulers are rebels,friends of thieves. They all love graftand chase after bribes. They do not defend the rights of the fatherless,and the widow’s case never comes before them.
24. Therefore the Lord God of Hosts,the Mighty One of Israel, declares:“Ah, I will gain satisfaction from My foes;I will take revenge against My enemies.