THEOSISJerome of Stridon
God, like a compassionate healer, aims to remove the decaying flesh and cauterize the wound, functioning not out of mere avoidance but from a desire for greater mercy. His intention is that no decaying matter lingers within, preventing any harm to the surrounding parts of the body.
Hear the word that the LORD has declared against you, O children of Israel, against the entire lineage that I delivered from Egypt, saying: Only you have I acknowledged among all the nations of the earth; therefore I shall hold you accountable for all your transgressions. The prophetic message is directed at the children of Israel, clarified by the next verse: “to all,” says He, “the lineage that I brought out from Egypt,” not just the ten tribes, but all twelve, including Judah and Benjamin.
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For He liberated all of them from bondage and states, “Only,” or as Simmachus translates, “you alone have I acknowledged from all the nations.” Because you alone have been recognized by Me, the Creator, as My chosen people, I will address your sins specifically. For “the strong shall feel torment, while the humble are deserving of mercy” (Prem. 6:6). In Ezekiel, it is written, “from My sanctified ones, you shall begin” (Ezekiel 9:6), and it is noted that God's judgment commences with His own house (1 Pet. 4:17). This interpretation pertains to historical context, yet it is vital to recognize that hearing in Scriptures signifies more than physical listening; it encompasses the deeper understanding alluded to when the Lord states, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Luke 8:8). Thus, “all men also shall hear the voice of God” (Ex. 20:18), applying this message to those who perceive God mentally, whom He liberated from Egypt and the oppression of Pharaoh, thereby preventing them from being subjected to labor with clay and straw to construct the cities of Egypt. He has acknowledged them above all the nations, as stated by the apostle: “Now that you know God, or rather have been known by God” (Galatians 4:9). In another instance, it is affirmed, “he who knows not will not be acknowledged” (1 Cor. 14). Consequently, God does not recognize everyone, but rather those who are worthy, as expressed in the Gospel: “Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity; I will not receive you” (Luke 13:27). As a result, since they are workers of unrighteousness, God does not acknowledge them. Thus, He declares, “Since I have recognized you alone and chosen you for Myself, I will address you for all your iniquities.” “For whom the Lord loves, He chastens, and He scourges every son whom He receives” (Hebrews 12:6). It is beautifully stated, “I will visit” rather than “punish,” for divine chastisement signifies both visitation and restoration. Regarding all your iniquities—He emphasizes that nothing shall escape judgment, ensuring that every wrong may receive healing.