Ezekiel 20:23-26

23There in the wilderness I made a strong promise to them. I promised to send them to many different places where they would live among other nations.

24This was because they had not obeyed my laws and my commands. They had not obeyed my rules about Sabbath days. Instead, they worshipped the same idols that their ancestors worshipped.

25So I let them obey rules that were not good. They were laws that would not help them to enjoy a good life.

26I let them make themselves unclean because of the offerings that they made. They burned their firstborn children in fire as sacrifices. I did that to make them afraid. I wanted them to know that I am the Lord.”