Idolatry, the crowning sin of the children of Israel, has been mentioned, and chapter 2 makes further disclosures of the inward state of the people. They were deep, in iniquity and planned their evil schemes during the bedtime hours, so as to employ the daytime fully in wickedness. Covetousness, oppression, violence, marked their ways (verses 1-2). God therefore declares that He too will devise—an evil, from which these guilty ones shall not escape. Men do not realize that God is to be met; that His eyes see all that goes on in the world.
In verse 10 an important principle is stated: “Arise ye and depart, for this is not your rest; because it is polluted. . .” God would never have His people at rest amid defilement; separation from iniquity is the necessary path of those who would walk with Him.
Verse 12 brings the blessed promise of God for Israel; His unfailing word guarantees to “all” of Jacob, though it be but a “remnant” they will be put together as sheep are gathered into the fold by their watchful shepherd. There will be a joyful noise from that multitude!
But a “breaker” must act for these sheep (verse 13); it is God, who will break down every hindrance and clear the way as none but He can do, for the settlement of His earthly people in the land He appointed for them long, long ago.