Topical Encyclopedia The Book of Joel, a prophetic text in the Old Testament, is attributed to the prophet Joel, son of Pethuel. Joel's prophecy is primarily concerned with the Day of the Lord, a time of divine judgment and restoration. The book is notable for its vivid imagery and its call to repentance, as well as its pronouncements against the enemies of God.Context and Structure Joel's prophecy is set against the backdrop of a devastating locust plague that has ravaged the land of Judah. This natural disaster serves as a metaphor for the impending judgment of God. The book is structured into three main sections: the locust plague and a call to repentance (Joel 1:1-2:17), the promise of restoration and blessing (Joel 2:18-32), and the judgment against the nations (Joel 3). Judgment Against the Nations In the third chapter of Joel, the prophet shifts focus from the immediate concerns of Judah to a broader eschatological vision. Here, Joel proclaims God's judgment against the nations that have opposed His people. The text emphasizes that these nations will be gathered in the Valley of Jehoshaphat, a symbolic location representing God's judgment. Joel 3:2 states, "I will gather all the nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat. There I will enter into judgment against them concerning My people, My inheritance Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations, as they divided up My land." The nations are condemned for their mistreatment of Israel, including scattering the people, dividing the land, and engaging in acts of violence and exploitation. Joel 3:4-8 specifically mentions Tyre, Sidon, and the regions of Philistia, highlighting their transgressions and the retributive justice that awaits them: "Indeed, what are you to Me, O Tyre and Sidon, and all the regions of Philistia? Are you repaying Me for something I have done? If you are paying Me back, I will swiftly and speedily return your recompense upon your heads." The Day of the Lord The Day of the Lord is a central theme in Joel's prophecy, representing both judgment and salvation. For the enemies of God, it is a day of darkness and destruction. Joel 3:14-16 describes the multitudes in the Valley of Decision, where the Lord will roar from Zion and thunder from Jerusalem, shaking the heavens and the earth. This imagery underscores the power and sovereignty of God in executing judgment. Restoration and Hope While Joel's prophecy contains stern warnings for the enemies of God, it also offers hope for His people. The judgment against the nations is juxtaposed with promises of restoration and blessing for Israel. Joel 3:17-21 speaks of a future where Jerusalem will be holy, and strangers will never again pass through it. The mountains will drip with new wine, and the hills will flow with milk, symbolizing abundance and divine favor. Theological Significance Joel's denunciation of the enemies of God serves as a reminder of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes. The prophecy calls for repentance and faithfulness, assuring the faithful of God's protection and blessing. It also foreshadows the eschatological hope found in the New Testament, where the final judgment and the establishment of God's kingdom are fully realized. Nave's Topical Index Joel 3:1-17For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I shall bring again the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem, Nave's Topical Index Library The Twelve Minor Prophets. The Greater Prophets. The Mystery Resources Summary of the Book of Joel - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the valley of decision (Joel 3:14)? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to “let the weak say I am strong” in Joel 3:10? | GotQuestions.org Joel: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Joel: A Kohathite Who Assisted in the Cleansing of the Temple Joel: Declares the Terribleness of God's Judgments Joel: Denounces Judgments Against the Enemies of God Joel: One of David's Valiant Men Joel: One of David's Valiant Men: Called "Igal, Son of Nathan" Joel: One of the Twelve Minor Prophets, Probably Lived in the Days of Uzziah Joel: Sets Forth the Blessings of the Church Joel: Son of Samuel: Called Vashni Related Terms |
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