Joel 3:1 For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I shall bring again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem, I. IT SHALL BE THE YEAR OF THE REDEEMED. Though the bondage of God's people may be grievous and long, it shall not be everlasting. That in Egypt ended at length in their deliverance into the glorious liberty of the children of God. That in Babylon shall likewise end well. II. IT SHALL BE THE YEAR OF RECOMPENCES FOR THE CONTROVERSY OF ZION. Though God may suffer the enemies of His people to prevail against them very far, and for a long time, yet He will call them to an account for it, and will lead those captive that led His people captive. 1. Who those are that shall be reckoned with. "All nations." This intimates — (1) That all the nations had made themselves liable to the judgment of God for wrong done to His people. But the neighbouring nations should be particularly dealt with. (2) That whatsoever nation injured God's nation, they should not go unpunished. Little persecutors shall be taken account of as well as great ones. 2. The sitting of this court for judgment. 3. The plaintiff called, on whose behalf this prosecution is set on foot. 4. The charge exhibited against them, which is very particular. (1) They had been very abusive to the children of Israel. (2) They had unjustly seized God's silver and gold. 5. The sentence passed upon them. "Return your recompence upon your own head." (1) They shall not gain their end in the mischief they designed. (2) They shall be paid in their own coin. ( Matthew Henry.) Parallel Verses KJV: For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I shall bring again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem,WEB: "For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, |
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