Israel sinned, showing no shame for their sin. Judah saw Israel’s sinful ways and the lack of shame and became sinful toward the Lord as well. The Lord called His people to humble themselves and turn from their sin. He told them He would show mercy to them. They would be brought together in the land the Lord gave them and worship Him. The Lord told them to remove the sin of their hearts or experience judgment. Israel was called to serve the Lord only. The destruction of their land would be the result of refusing to repent. Images are used to describe the process leading up to, and the actual destruction of their land because of their continued sin against the Lord.