18. Come now, and let us reason together,says the Lord.Though your sins be as scarlet,they shall be as white as snow;though they be red like crimson,they shall be as wool.
19. If you are willing and obedient,you shall eat the good of the land;
20. but if you refuse and rebel,you shall be devoured with the sword;for the mouth of the Lord has spokenit.
21. How the faithful cityhas become a prostitute!She was full of justice;righteousness lodged in her,but now murderers.
22. Your silver has become dross,your wine mixed with water.
23. Your princes are rebelliousand companions of thieves;everyone loves a bribeand follows after rewards.They do not defend the fatherless,nor does the cause of the widow come before them.