prophet asks questions which make clear that this is no matter to be trifled with. It would be unexpected; it could also be unpleasant. But who can endure the day of his coming? Who can stand when he appears? (3:2). The rhetorical questions suggest the answer that no one will be able to do so. ‘Endure’ implies a searching ordeal that none will be able to cope with. ‘The day of the LORD is great; it is dreadful. Who can endure it?’ (Joel 2:11). ‘Stand’ does not mean appear before the investigating
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