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Judgment is the theme here – specifically with those who are against God and against his people. A lot of times, we seem to think that God casually watches as his people are ravaged and murdered. Because we don’t see immediate justice, we think that God has let it slide. We can see in this chapter of Joel that is not the case. He remembers every offense, and the bar is set higher than we can imagine. In fact, He says He will march each nation down to be judged for their actions.
There is also a heavy theme of harvesting taking place which builds upon the previous chapters.
“The use of harvesting imagery in the Book of Joel is complex. It begins in terms of the great scarcity resulting from the locust plague (Ch. 1). Then there is a promised renewal of agriculture with the return of God’s blessing to His repentant people (Joe 2:18-27). Here, the riches of renewed agriculture serve as a mocking backdrop for a world in conflict. In Joe 3:18-21, there is a final renewal of agriculture because of the blessing of the resident King.”
Nelson’s New Testament Commentary
Judgment is a given for all of us. We will all be held accountable for what we have done in this life. With Jesus as our Savior, we know the judgment for our sins will be covered. It has already been paid. This is why we can read these verses without fear, rejoicing that God will one day eradicate all evil from our sight.
Reading about God’s judgment should make us pause. There is no one more powerful, magnificent, or fair. When we see God for the judge He is, we see Christ’s sacrifice in its purest form, and are filled with joy, love, and gratitude for the life we now are given through Him.