1. An urgent message (2-5)

The Lord's answer must be written down plainly, so that anyone who reads it may run to deliver it. His message is one of hope and salvation for God's people, and a message of judgment on any arrogant people whose desires are not upright. God's people must wait on God and live by faith, even though corruption and violence are rampant. One who lives by faith is counted as righteous (Ro 1:17).

2. Five woes from a Holy God (6-20)

The five woes point out the evils that the righteous God would not long tolerate in any nation. He will not tolerate empire builders who become wealthy by extortion and plunder (6), by ruining others (9-10), or by crime (11). Woe to those who corrupt conquered people with alcohol and pornography (15). Woe to idol worshipers (18-19). The Lord's triumph is sure. Verse 14 looks forward to the Messianic kingdom. Verses 19 and 20 contrast lifeless idols with the Lord who is in his holy temple, ruling the earth.

Application: Lord, help me to live by faith in the Holy God who rules all the earth.
One Word: Live by faith