Why are the people of the Jerusalem perpetually backsliding (in their observance)? Jeremiah asks the question and the people provide a convincing answer - in that both those who repent and those who continue to do wrong (and those who are righteous) all end up in the same place. With interplay of biblical verses from different books. Plus, the concern that God has severed the ties with the Children of Israel/Jewish people, when not only was King David called God's servant, but so too was Nebuchadnezzar - with clever explanation as to why even this does not mean a severed tie from God to the Jewish people. Plus, being plagued by one's own evil inclination. Also, heretics and the rooster as a sign of God's wrath. Note: Don't curse the wicked - and take this capacity for wrong-doing with humility. Note: Balaam's story. Also, people should always to mitzvot, even if for the wrong reasons, because eventually, one will come to act for the right reasons.