Introduction to the Book of Joel

The Book of Joel is the second book of the Book of the Twelve Prophets. Its writing date is uncertain. The author is the Southern Kingdom prophet Joel, whose name means “The LORD is God.” His name appears only once in the Old Testament. In Acts chapter 2, the Apostle Peter quotes his prophecy about “God’s Spirit being poured out on all people.” Joel lived sometime between the 9th and 5th centuries BC. Beyond that, little is known about his life.

Both Joel and Amos mention “the Day of the LORD” (Joel 1:15; Amos 5:18), looking ahead to the ultimate glory that day signifies. The locust plague recorded in this book not only occurred historically but will also be re-enacted during the great tribulation of the last days (Joel 1:6; 2:4-5; Revelation 9:7-10). The plan revealed by God through Joel will continue until the new heavens and new earth. God not only declared the great and awesome judgment of “the Day of the LORD” (Isaiah 13:6; Ezekiel 30:3; Amos 5:18; Zephaniah 1:7; Zechariah 14:1; Malachi 4:5) but also revealed the glorious salvation of that day: He will “be jealous for his land and pity his people.”

God not only declared His proactive salvation but also revealed the way for people to receive it: “Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days” (Joel 2:29; Acts 2:18), so that “everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved” (Joel 2:32; Acts 2:21; Romans 10:13). God not only declared His redemptive will but also revealed His plan to dwell with humanity forever: “God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God” (Revelation 21:3).