Yes, God chose Israel from among all the families of the earth. But with that favor came heavy responsibility, chastening and punishment.

“You only have I chosen among all the families of the earth; Therefore, I will punish you for all your iniquities.” (Amos 3:2 NAS)

After the nation of Israel was delivered from the slavery of Egypt, they wandered forty hard years in the wilderness before entering the Land of Promise.

God then used Israel to rid the Land of the idolatrous nations that sacrificed even their own children to their idols. Just as God Himself destroyed Sodom for their own “good” (Ezekiel 16:50), He also commanded the Canaanite nations to be destroyed (Exodus 13:11; Joshua 3:10)— making possible their later recovery by resurrection from degradation in the Messianic Kingdom.

But even most Bible-reading believers are unaware of the full import of the unfavorable comparison of Judah to Sodom made by the LORD. As bad as Sodom was, the LORD accused Judah of greater sins because of greater responsibility! But no longer will they be “sisters” in crime. Ezekiel finally explains that Judah will be like a mother to Sodom with a “New Covenant.” (Jeremiah 31:31) Sodom and even the Canaanites will be blessed in the resurrection!

Torah Scroll

“Behold, this was the guilt of your sister Sodom: she and her daughters had arrogance, abundant food, and careless ease, but she did not help the poor and needy. Thus they were haughty and committed abominations before Me….Then you [Judah] will remember your ways and be ashamed when you receive your sisters…and I will give them [Sodom and Samaria] to you as daughters, but not because of your [Old Law] covenant. Thus I will establish My covenant [a New Covenant] with you, and you shall know that I am the LORD ” (Ezekiel 16:49,50,61,62 NAS)