In our last study, we saw the word of the Lord pleading with Judah to repent, the promise of restoration and hope was offered, but they would not turn from their wickedness. We also saw that in the midst of their wickedness, they were still offering sacrifices and bringing offerings but not from an upright heart, but rather from an religious heart, doing all the things they were supposed to do out of obligation not with sincerity. As we will see throughout this book, Isaiah will show the depravity of the situation, but will also show how merciful God is. All through Israel’s history, this has been the case. It’s still the same today, God is ever merciful, but He is also just. In order for us to receive His mercy, we have to see the truth of the situation we are in, recognize it, confess it and turn from it. So now we pick up in verse 21, after Judah has been shown that they can receive this mercy, but choose not to repent, Isaiah continues showing them the severity of their situation.