Joe 3:14-17 | TNotes | STEP | 3:14 Thousands upon thousands (literally roaring, roaring; or crowds, crowds ): The repetition of the Hebrew word captures the chaotic noise made by an immense crowd. • valley of decision: The name of the valley is changed (cp. 3:2-3 , 12 ) because now the Lord’s judgment had been decided.

eAmos 1:2►

‏ Joel 3:14-17

3:14 ^a Thousands upon thousands (literally roaring, roaring; or crowds, crowds): The repetition of the Hebrew word captures the chaotic noise made by an immense crowd.

• valley of decision: The name of the valley is changed (cp. 3:2-3 ^b, 12 ^c) because now the Lord’s judgment had been decided.
3:16 ^d The Lord’s voice, like that of a lion, would roar from Zion, shaking heaven and earth and terrifying sinners (see Amos 1:2 ^e). Yet this same ferocious lion is also a refuge for his people.
3:17 ^f Then you will know: God’s ultimate purpose is that his people should know him and share his holy character. They must learn that he alone is God and that he reigns over all creation from Zion, his holy mountain (see also 2:27 ^g). The only true security in the present, and the only hope for the future, comes from God’s presence.