4 They say, “Get ready to fight against Jerusalem!Get up! We will attack at noon!But it is already getting late;the evening shadows are growing long.
5 So get up! We will attack at night.We will destroy the strong towers of Jerusalem!”
6 This is what the Lord All-Powerful says:“Cut down the trees around Jerusalem,and build an attack ramp to the top of its walls.This city must be punished.Inside it is nothing but slavery.
7 Jerusalem pours out her evilas a well pours out its water.The sounds of violence and destruction are heard within her.I can see the sickness and hurts of Jerusalem.
8 Listen to this warning, Jerusalem,or I will turn my back on youand make your land an empty desertwhere no one can live.”
9 This is what the Lord All-Powerful says:“Gather the few people of Israel who are left alive,as you would gather the last grapes on a grapevine.Check each vine again,like someone who gathers grapes.”
10 To whom can I speak? Whom can I warn?Who will listen to me?The people of Israel have closed ears,so they cannot hear my warnings.They don’t like the word of the Lord;they don’t want to listen to it!