How can God, as a God of love, punish so terribly and how can God’s prophet be so enthusiastic about it?
God’s love is evident in his faithfulness and mercy toward his chosen people. It is also seen in his punishments on those who attack his beloved people in a vile and cruel way. He has been patient with those enemies for a long time. But when they remain vicious enemies, his judgment comes. Their sins went beyond all bounds (see Joel 2:13b). In a sinful world, love can never be without punishment for those who stubbornly reject God’s love.
9 Publiez ces choses parmi les nations! Préparez la guerre! Réveillez les héros! Qu'ils s'approchent, qu'ils montent, Tous les hommes de guerre!