3. But I answered them, "Tell Zedekiah and his people,
4. 'The Lord is the God of Israel. He says, "The king of Babylonia and his armies are all around this city. They are getting ready to attack you. You have weapons of war in your hands to fight against them. But I am about to turn your weapons against you. And I will bring your enemies inside this city.
5. " ' "I myself will fight against you. I will reach out my powerful hand and mighty arm. I will come against you with all of my burning anger.
6. I will strike down those who live in this city. I will kill people and animals alike. They will die of a terrible plague.
7. " ' "After that, I will hand you over to your enemies who want to kill you," announces the Lord. "I will hand over Zedekiah, the king of Judah. I will hand over his officials and the people in this city who live through the plague, war and hunger. All of them will be turned over to Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylonia. He will kill them with swords. He will not show them any kindness. He will not feel sorry for them. In fact, he will not have any concern for them at all." '
8. "Tell the people, 'The Lord says, "I am offering you a choice. You can choose the way that leads to life. Or you can choose the way that leads to death.