They are only out for themselves, ready to exploit you for their own gain through their cunning arguments. Their condemnation has been a long time coming. But their destruction does not slumber or sit idly by, for it is sure to come.
Surely you must know that people who practice evil cannot possess God’s kingdom realm. Stop being deceived! People who continue to engage in sexual immorality, idolatry, adultery, sexual perversion, homosexuality,
They all flock to you to sit at your feet as my people. They listen to your words, but they will not act on them. Instead, they express genuine devotion to Yahweh, but their hearts are set on cheating others.
They’re greedy dogs that never eat enough. And the shepherds have no discernment; they follow their own desires. Every last one of them seeks his own profit.
Only those who walk with integrity and speak what is true, who despise even the thought of cheating the poor, and do not accept a bribe, nor plot violence, nor contemplate doing evil —
Your rulers are rebellious and companions of crooks. They are self-centered racketeers who love a bribe and who chase after payoffs. They don’t defend the fatherless or consider the rights of a helpless widow.
A godly leader who values justice is a great strength and example to the people. But the one who sells his influence for money tears down what is right.