⁴ And if the people of the community ignore those who offer their children to Molech and refuse to execute them,

² “When you begin living in the towns the Lord your God is giving you, a man or woman among you might do evil in the sight of the Lord your God and violate the covenant. ³ For instance, they might serve other gods or worship the sun, the moon, or any of the stars—the forces of heaven—which I have strictly forbidden. ⁴ When you hear about it, investigate the matter thoroughly. If it is true that this detestable thing has been done in Israel, ⁵ then the man or woman who has committed such an evil act must be taken to the gates of the town and stoned to death.

³⁰ “God overlooked people’s ignorance about these things in earlier times, but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent of their sins and turn to him.

⁴² The prophet said to him, “This is what the Lord says: Because you have spared the man I said must be destroyed,^[a] now you must die in his place, and your people will die instead of his people.”

¹³ I have warned him that judgment is coming upon his family forever, because his sons are blaspheming God^[a] and he hasn’t disciplined them. ¹⁴ So I have vowed that the sins of Eli and his sons will never be forgiven by sacrifices or offerings.”

¹² That is why the Israelites are running from their enemies in defeat. For now Israel itself has been set apart for destruction. I will not remain with you any longer unless you destroy the things among you that were set apart for destruction.

⁸ But do not give in or listen. Have no pity, and do not spare or protect them.