In Ezekiel 14 and 15 some of the elders have come to Ezekiel. While they still worship idols they also want to consult with him as if to hedge their bets. The Lord is not fooled by this activity. He knows that they have not turned from their idols. Ezekiel is to tell them to turn to God or they will be punished. This admonition goes for both the people of Israel and the resident aliens in Jerusalem.

The intention of the punishment, even though it is hard to the point of killing the unfaithful is to shoe the God is the Lord. The people have believed that they can do whatever they want and God will not act against them because of who they are. God is saying that birthright alone will not save them. They will be punished because of their own unrighteousness. There is an interesting passage where God refers to Noah, Job, and Daniel. He says that even if these three righteous men were with them that would not protect them from God’s punishment. Their righteousness cannot save the unrighteous. The righteous will only save themselves. There is no one coming on their behalf.

James 5 speaks to the rich who have gotten their wealth by evil means. They are warned about their behavior. The righteous who have suffered under their oppression are told to be patient. When the Lord comes, the wicked will be punished. It is important for the righteous not to complain since in their complaint they will receive the judgment of the Lord. It is better to endure in silence and so not to sin. The key to dealing with problem is to pray. We should also actively bring others to prayer so they can turn form sin.