Title Judgment and Blessing (Joel 03:18-21)
After stating the basis for judgment in verses 1-3 and execution, verses 4-8 and the outcome, verses 13-17, Joel finally describes the restoration and prosperity of Judah. Verse God ultimately shows that Israel did not forsake, but saved.
In particular, the text contrasts the fates of Judah and Edom in Egypt, that is, Judah and Jerusalem will receive abundant blessings, while Egypt and Edom will receive God's severe judgment.
The author clearly shows that there is no neutral zone between judgment and salvation by sharply dividing the fate of the covenant people and the Gentiles.
On the other hand, this prophecy must be interpreted symbolically rather than literally. In fact, historically, Israel has been filled with suffering rather than glory. Also, Egypt is still alive. Therefore, Judah and Jerusalem are the models of the future kingdom of God. and Edom should be understood as a model of Satan who opposes God.
The key contents of the text suggesting the coming of the kingdom of heaven in the future are as follows.
1. Heaven rewards abundant blessings / Verse 18
The Prophet Says the Kingdom to Come Has Very Fertile Soil
The land that was devastated by sin is restored and returned to the same nature as before in 1:5/2:19-27, Isaiah 55:1, the barren hills are filled with plants, and the springs that were dried up by the cold disaster revive Also, the spring from the temple revives the whole earth and makes the fruit plentiful / Ezekiel 47:1-12, like this, Israel in the last days will feel the supreme happiness
Because God's presence is fully realized and glory continues to exist / Ezekiel 43:1-12, Saints should look forward to that day while enjoying it temporally.
2. The kingdom of heaven exists forever in the state of overcoming sin/verse 19
Egypt and Edom become barren fields, while Jerusalem is given eternal life in abundance. Judah's sins are all forgiven, and the Lord is with them forever (Ezekiel 48:35). Jesus came as the promised Immanuel /Isaiah 7:14, because he redeemed mankind through death and resurrection /Ephesians 1:15-2:21, Colossians 1:15-27, All people become a temple / 1 Corinthians 3 ;10, You will receive abundant gifts/Ephesians 4:8-10, therefore Christians will enjoy the presence of God forever /Rev 21:2.3.Experience the glory and blessings of God through the Holy Spirit will/John 16:7-14
conclusion
In this chapter, we learn the following lessons:
Any individual or group that opposes God will inevitably be destroyed.
On the other hand, those who trust in God will ultimately taste victory and salvation.
The day of judgment is a day of terror and apocalypse for the wicked, but it is a day of joy and hope for the righteous (Mal 4:1-3).
Therefore, believers should carefully carry out their assigned missions while feeling the hand of God who provides history.