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This section together with the previous oracle reveals a paradox. Judah’s depravity is so widespread that he wishes no longer to remain as a part of this treacherous people (9:2). Everyone in Judah is a “Jacob” (v.4), filled with deceit and falsehood. This depravity remains with them because they do not allow God’s grace to transform them (see Hos 12:2-6; Ge 32:22-32). God’s people, no matter how chosen and privileged, are no different from heathen nations when they refuse to acknowledge Yahweh as the Lord (vv.6, 9). Yahweh’s decision is to refine this depraved nation through the painful process of desolation and destruction (v.7). The one who understands the cause of this divine action has wisdom (v.12; cf. 8:8-9).
Life in the land is secure only when the people are obedient and faithful to the One who is the Giver of the gift (the Sinai covenant requirement). The consequences of disobedience (stubbornness of heart) and unfaithfulness (idolatry) are expulsion, life among strangers, destruction, and death without regard for age (vv.13-16; 17-22).
The wisdom of God admonishes his people that they cannot boast about any of their own resources (wisdom, strength, or wealth) as the means of their salvation (9:23-24). They must reject their self-sufficiency and enter into a personal experience with Yahweh who demands kindness (ḥesed̠, covenant loyalty), justice (mišpāṭ, covenant obligation), righteousness (sed̠āqâ[h], covenant conduct) from everyone on this earth. A Christian cannot boast about anything but “the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus” and “the righteousness that comes from God . . . by faith” (see Php 3:7-11).
Vv.25 and 26 fit with the theme of the preceding oracle. The scope of Yahweh’s judgment is universal and upon everyone who is uncircumcised in heart (see 4:4). National or religious identity cannot save one from the judgment of God.