the ultimate destiny of Israel and Judah, their immediate destiny is one of destruction. But against this bleak backdrop stands another certainty equally as real, one whose absolute nature is not mitigated in any sense by the certainty of destruction. This certainty is the realization of the Exodus promises: God’s people will be holy, as he is, experiencing his continual guidance and protection (4:2–6; cf. Exod 19:3–6; Num 9:15–18). Whatever may come upon the nation in retribution for their rebellion
Page 6