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!