In earthly courts, God demanded that every transgression would be established on the basis of two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15). On the testimony of these witnesses, the most serious punishment could be meted out upon those guilty of grievous transgressions (Deuteronomy 17:6). The plurality of witnesses was necessary because of the unreliability of man. But no other witness is needed besides God, because God is truth. Furthermore, witnesses of a crime were also called to be first among the executioners of the punishment prescribed (Deuteronomy 17:7, Deuteronomy 13:9). In like manner, the Lord who has witnessed this great injustice to the wives also serves as Judge and Executioner. God, who has witnessed the covenant breaking of these men of Judah will himself testify, condemn, and punish. There is no escape for the unfaithful.
14 But you say, “Why does he not?” Because the LORD was witness between you and the wife of your youth, to whom you have been faithless, though she is your companion and your wife by covenant.