2 Kings 17:13

Testified. Heb. ‘ud. This word may also be translated “to exhort solemnly,” “to reiterate,” “to charge.” The warnings were often severe, but their purpose was to help the people sense the danger of their evil ways and turn them from their iniquities. If they did not turn, they at least would not be able justly to blame God for their fate. None of the captives could say, If only I had known that this would be the outcome of my sinful course, I would have reformed. Thus God’s justice would be fully vindicated, an important element in God’s dealings with men. Testimonies from heaven perform a similar function today. Never has God more earnestly instructed His people and more solemnly warned them (see Rev. 3:14-22). Those who fail will be without excuse.

Turn ye. This was something God could not do for His people. God invites, pleads, presents inducements, and urges, but He never coerces. If men do not yield the will, there is nothing that God can do for them to effect their salvation. God had done all He could for Israel. “What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I have not done in it?” (Isa. 5:4). The next step must be taken by the people.