Joel is a prophetic book responding to a devastating locust plague that ravaged Israel. The disaster becomes a vivid picture of the coming Day of the Lord, when God will judge sin and restore His people. Joel calls the nation to heartfelt repentance and promises God’s future blessings, including the outpouring of His Spirit fulfilled at Pentecost.
Background
Author: Joel
Audience: Judah
Date: Uncertain; estimates range from 830–400 BC
Location Written: Judah
Context: A massive locust swarm devastated Israel’s crops, threatening their economy and survival. Joel interprets this event as both a warning and a call to return to God. He urges priests, leaders, and people to fast and repent. The book moves from present crisis to future hope, climaxing with God’s promise to pour out His Spirit on all people and to judge the nations who oppressed Israel.
Characters
- Joel — prophet calling Judah to repentance and hope
- God — righteous judge and gracious restorer
- Priests — spiritual leaders called to lead national repentance
- People of Judah — recipients of both warning and promise
- Nations — future recipients of God’s judgment
Major Events
- Locust plague described as unprecedented devastation (Chapter 1)
- Call to repentance through fasting and prayer (Chapter 1–2)
- Promise of restoration and renewal after repentance (Chapter 2)
- Prophecy of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Chapter 2)
- Announcement of the Day of the Lord and judgment of nations (Chapter 3)
- Promise of future blessing and security for God’s people (Chapter 3)
Application & Life Lessons
- God can use crisis to call people back to Himself
- True repentance involves both heart and action
- God restores what was lost when His people return to Him
- The Holy Spirit is poured out on all who call on the Lord
- God’s judgment is certain but His mercy is abundant
- Worship and prayer are essential in times of distress
- God defends His people and brings justice against oppression
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Joel
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Joel, Amos, & Obadiah
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Books
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Disclosures & Notices
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