Exploring the Bible // Joel
The book of Joel is part of the minor prophet collection in the Bible. We know it was written by a prophet named Joel but little else is known about the author and timing. In fact, it’s one of the most mysterious in regards to timing as Joel gives no evidence or clues as to when it was written. Some scholars suggest the book was written in the late ninth century BC because no king is mentioned but there is heavy language on the priests and rituals. In fact, there was a time in Judah’s history when the king was too young (Joash) so a priest brought leadership to the nation. This suggests a date of 835-800 BC, making Joel an early prophetic writer and a contemporary of the prophet Elisha.
Other scholars suggest Joel is set in the post-exilic period of Ezra and Nehemiah, after the return from Babylon. Joel references Jerusalem and the temple but makes no mention of a reigning king, suggesting a time when the monarchy had not been reestablished.
Judgment and a Call to Repentance
The book is three chapters and focuses on the theme of sin and repentance.
In chapter 1 a plague of locusts has decimated the nation of Judah. It’s an act of judgment the Lord has sent because of the sins of the people. We know this was warned to the people in Deuteronomy 28-29; that if the people wandered and disobeyed, God would bring judgment to them.
This plague was a result of the disobedience of God’s people but also a call to repentance.
In chapters 2 and 3 we are told of the day of the Lord to come. The day of the Lord, although varied in interpretation, is a time when Jesus will return, God will intervene, and judgment will be delivered on all of mankind.
The call to Judah, and one we can heed today, is to repent of our sins. A time of judgment is coming we cannot hide from or deliver ourselves from. Turn away from sin today—repent! This is the merciful call the Lord gives to His children.
What Can We Learn
Perhaps the most stirring passage in this book is Joel 2:28-29,
“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit.”
God wants to pour out His Spirit and do marvelous things on the earth! But it comes after repentance. While this prophecy is directed toward the people of Judah we can certainly heed the same warning. And be confident that God stills wants to pour out miraculous works and movements of revival on the earth. But we must be people of repentance.
What sin are you avoiding or hiding? Repent today! God is merciful and able to forgive. And when a person is wholly submitted to God, there is no cap to what God will do in and through that person.
Memory Verse
“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions.” Joel 2:28 (ESV)
