They have installed kings,
but not through Me.
They have appointed leaders,
but without My approval.
They make their silver and gold
into idols for themselves
for their own destruction.

A sword will whirl through his cities;
it will destroy and devour the bars of his gates,
because of their schemes.

I spoke through the prophets
and granted many visions;
I gave parables through the prophets.

When Ephraim spoke, there was trembling;
he was exalted in Israel.
But he incurred guilt through Baal and died.