Jesus: “In Joel 3:8, the prophet speaks of a time of judgment and recompense, saying, ‘And I will sell your sons and your daughters into the hand of the children of Judah, and they shall sell them to the Sabeans, to a people far off: for the Lord hath spoken it.’ This verse is part of a larger discourse on the Day of the Lord, a time when God will judge the nations and vindicate His people.”
Peter: “Master, it sounds like a stern warning to the nations about the consequences of their actions against God’s people.”
Jesus: “Peter, it is. The prophecy of Joel encompasses both warning and promise. It warns of the judgment that comes with turning away from God and oppressing His people. Yet, it also holds the promise of restoration and redemption for those who return to the Lord.”
John: “Lord, how does the message of judgment and restoration in Joel relate to your teaching about the Kingdom of God?”
Jesus: “John, the message of Joel, like much of the prophetic writings, underscores the seriousness of sin and the righteousness of God’s judgment. Yet, it also points to the hope of restoration through repentance and faith. In the Kingdom of God, justice and mercy meet. My coming brings this to fulfillment, offering redemption to all who believe, turning judgment into joy for those who embrace the gospel.”
Andrew: “So, it’s a call to repentance, to turn back to God before the Day of the Lord?”
Jesus: “Exactly, Andrew. It’s a call to recognize the gravity of sin and the urgency of returning to God. The Day of the Lord will bring justice, but in my grace, I offer the way back to God, transforming the promise of judgment into an invitation to salvation.”
Thomas: “Master, it emphasizes the need for us to share your message of hope and redemption with urgency.”
Jesus: “Thomas, you’ve captured the heart of our mission. The world needs to hear the message of hope, to know that while judgment is real, so is the offer of salvation through faith in me. It’s an urgent call to awaken from spiritual slumber and embrace the life I offer.”
Simon the Zealot: “Lord, it’s a powerful reminder that our actions have consequences, and that returning to God is the path to true peace and restoration.”
Jesus: “Simon, indeed. The call to return to God is central to finding peace and restoration. My presence inaugurates the Kingdom where peace and justice reign, and where all are invited to partake in the redemption I provide.”
James, son of Zebedee: “It shows the depth of God’s love, doesn’t it? Even in judgment, there’s a promise of restoration for those who turn back to Him.”
Jesus: “James, it does. God’s love is so profound that even in His warnings of judgment, His desire for restoration and healing shines through. My mission is the ultimate expression of that love, offering restoration and life to all who come to me.”
Philip: “Master, it motivates us to live righteously and to spread the message of your love and salvation to every corner of the earth.”
Jesus: “Philip, let that motivation drive you. Live as bearers of the good news, as lights in the darkness, showcasing the love, justice, and mercy of the Kingdom. The message of Joel, of judgment and hope, finds its fulfillment in me, calling all to embrace the salvation I offer.”
