The Book of Joel

Introduction to Studies 1-4

There are 12 “minor prophets” in the Bible and, if we are honest, we find them difficult to read and understand, perhaps with the exception of Jonah. Knowing something of the historical background to any of the books is a great help toward profitable reading. Have a look in a Bible dictionary, if you have one, or search the web (but be careful and check out a few articles, for there are some odd ideas out there!).

Exactly when Joel prophesied is not known. Unlike many of the other prophetical books we get statements or clues as to when the prophet spoke, but not with Joel. There are a number of ideas as to when he may have prophesied. Was it in the days of the young king Joash in the early 9th century BC  when, after the death of the High Priest, the people started worshipping wooden images and idols (2 Chron 24.18)? Or, was it in the latter days of Judah, before the conquest and exile by Babylon in the 6th century BC? We do not know and, as John Calvin rightly commented, “…this is of no great importance…for the import of his doctrine is evident, though his time be obscure and uncertain.”[1]

The book may be usefully divided at 2.17. The first 37 verses are the words of Joel. Then, from 2.18 to the end, 36 verses, the Lord speaks (v19ff). Although all is indeed “the word of the Lord” (v1). There is a pivotal change in 2.18 with the word “Then”. There is a turning from the Lord’s punishment of his people to the punishment of their enemies.

Look out for “day” in the book. The Day of the Lord is mentioned five times. This is the prophetic anticipation of judgment and salvation. Other references to day or days occur seven times. They occur evenly across the two sections of the book.

One further note. There is much that could and should be said about the book of Joel. However, the following notes are only intended to promote a thoughtful reading of the text with due consideration to one’s personal Christian life and to the times in which we live.

Michael S Bostock, June 2020.

[1] Calvin’s Commentaries, Baker Book House, 1998, vol. XIV, p.xv.