Context
The Bible is an ancient book containing the accounts of the origins of the universe and humanity, as well as the history of the Jewish people. It is divided into two main parts: the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament includes stories of the creation, the fall of man, and the establishment of the Israelite nation. It is further divided into four books, known as the written Torah. The New Testament contains the teachings of Jesus and his followers. Of the many characters mentioned throughout the Bible, one of the most prominent is Joel.
Who Was Joel?
Joel was a prophet from the ancient kingdom of Judah. His prophetic ministry occurred during the time of the Assyrian exile. He is remembered for his prophecies concerning the people of Israel and their future blessings. Throughout the Old Testament, Joel is mentioned by name multiple times: once in the Book of Isaiah, three times in the Book of Jeremiah, twice in the Book of Ezekiel, three times in the Book of Hosea, twice in the Book of Amos, and twice in the Book of Minor Prophets.
Joel in the Bible
The first mention of Joel comes from Isaiah 2:1, where he is described as a prophet from the southern kingdom of Judah. In Jeremiah 6:1, we read of a prophecy given by Joel that warns of judgement upon the people of Israel for their sin. Much of Joel’s prophecy focuses on how God will bring restoration and redemption to his people. In particular, he speaks of a “day of the Lord” which will be a time of great judgment and destruction, but also a time of blessing and restoration for God’s people.
Significance & Legacy
Joel’s prophecies stand out as some of the most powerful in the entire Bible. His vivid descriptions of the “day of the Lord” are often quoted in Christian teaching and have deep theological implications. In fact, some scholars have seen Joel’s words as being prophetic of the coming of Jesus Christ. Though he wrote his prophecies thousands of years ago, he is still revered today as one of the great prophets of the Bible.
Major Teachings
One of Joel’s key teachings was that of repentance. He called on the people of Israel to turn back to God and turn away from their sin. This is seen particularly in Joel’s words in Joel 2:12-14, where he urges the people to “rend their hearts” and repent of their sin. This prophetic call to repent has been echoed throughout the centuries, from the Christian church to modern-day believers.
Symbolism & Meaning
Joel’s prophetic words carry a great deal of symbolism that speaks to the state of mankind, both then and now. His words are a reminder to all of humanity that sin has consequences, and that repentance and turning to God is the only way of finding true healing and restoration. Joel’s words are also a reminder that even in times of darkness, God is still in control, and will ultimately bring about his perfect and glorious purpose for his people.
Influence On Christianity
Joel’s prophetic words have had an immense influence on Christianity, particularly on the concept of the Second Coming of Christ. As mentioned earlier, some theologians have seen Joel’s prophecies as prophetic of the coming of Jesus, which makes Joel’s words particularly important for understanding and interpreting the Second Coming. Joel’s writing also emphasised the importance of repentance and the need to turn back to God, which is a key theme of the Christian faith.
Modern Application
The message of Joel is as relevant today as it was in ancient times. His call to repentance and his descriptions of the “day of the Lord” have immense implications for all of humanity and should encourage us to turn back to God. His words should also remind us that God is still in control, and no matter how dark and difficult life may seem, God will ultimately bring about his perfect and glorious purpose for us.
