Joel 1-3
Joel’s name means “Yahweh is God,” and this brief book is clearly a word of warning from God Himself, to the Jews, and to the rest of the world that the Day of the LORD is coming (a phrase we find 5 times in these 3 chapters), we’d be wise to be ready.
As seen in the chart below, most Bible teachers date Joel early on in the history of Israel/Judah, when compared to the other minor prophets – Joel was a contemporary of Elisha.
Joel begins with a description of locust completely devouring the land. This may have been a catastrophe that actually took place in the days of Joel, or perhaps it was simply a picture of what God would do to both kingdoms, Israel and Judah, at the hands of the Assyrians, the Babylonians…and then one day to the world with His own hands, at His Second Coming.
God describes the invaders as strong and without number, laying waste to His Vine and His Fig Tree (Israel).
As I read of God’s judgment upon His people, I can’t help but think of my own beloved country, the United States of America. We have turned our backs on God, the One who established us and blessed us beyond measure. At one time we were “One Nation under God,” but tragically this is no longer the case. At one time it was “In God we trust,” but sadly, this is no longer true. It may seem bizarre to think that foreign nations could invade our country, or that God Himself would take us down, but that’s what happens when sin abounds.
Is it too late? Perhaps. But that doesn’t mean the remnant doesn’t continue to cry out to God for mercy. This is Joel’s counsel:
Joel 1:14–15 (NKJV) “Consecrate a fast, call a sacred assembly; gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land into the house of the LORD your God, and cry out to the LORD. 15 Alas for the day! For the day of the LORD is at hand; it shall come as destruction from the Almighty.”
Am I seeking the Lord like this? Especially in light of His imminent return.
God’s discipline and judgments come in many forms, Joel wants to warn the people. Imagine a place as glorious and lush as the Garden of Eden devoured by fire, then left as a desolate wilderness where nothing escapes (Joel 2:3). Imagine a foreign army marching in unison, as a machine, running through our cities, entering homes, ravishing families. Imagine the earth quaking, the stars falling, the sun diminishing. Judgment would come to Israel, and judgment will come to this world!
Is it too late for America? Some people wonder even if it’s too late for themselves – personally. Joel writes:
Joel 2:12–14 (NKJV) “‘Now, therefore,’ says the LORD, ‘Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.’ 13 So rend your heart, and not your garments; return to the LORD your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm. 14 Who knows if He will turn and relent, and leave a blessing behind Him— a grain offering and a drink offering for the LORD your God?’”
Are we seeking the Lord like this? If so…maybe, just maybe He will have mercy on our land.
Joel repeatedly asks the leaders to consecrate a fast, call a sacred assembly – gather the people, the congregation, the elders, the children, the nursing children, the newlyweds, as well as the priests; may we consider our witness (Joel 2:15-17).
Joel goes on to describe the mercy God shows to those who truly repent, and highlights His grace that will be showered upon Israel. God even promises to restore the years the swarming locust had eaten, all that time the enemy had robbed from them (Joel 2:25).
The ultimate blessing was bestowed upon Israel, when Jesus arrived in human flesh. In God’s amazing grace Christ died, rose from the dead, ascended into heaven, and sent the Holy Spirit. Peter, when the Day of Pentecost had fully come, quoted from Joel 2:28-32 in explaining the miraculous tongues spoken on that day, and promising the Holy Spirit’s power all the way until the Day of the LORD.
And whoever calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved! (Joel 2:32; Acts 2:21; Romans 19:9-13).
In Joel 3 God gathers the nations for judgment in the way they dealt with Israel. Half-way through the Tribulation period God will shelter Israel from the storm, while all hell breaks loose on planet earth…the weak will be strong, for the Lord their God will be their strength (Joel 3:10…we can say it now).
I’ve always been gripped by:
Joel 3:14 (NKJV) “Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision.”
Even today, decisions are being made. Will I fully follow God? Some decide not to follow Him at all. Billions of people deep down in that valley of decision…as the day draws near.
What a difference it makes to be God’s covenant people! Israel, as well as the church will be sheltered and strengthened and blessed, acquitted of our sins and guilt…all by the blood of Jesus Christ.
It’s a definite Day right around the corner, and at the same time G Campbell Morgan reminds us:
“It is always the day of the Lord.” – G. Campbell Morgan
No matter what calamities may come to men and nations, God is always in control, may we be comforted by that truth…and always be ready.