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Reading Joel
Reading Joel
We don’t know when it was written nor anything much about its author. We do see a typical prophet in that he warns the people of coming judgment and instructs them to repent. He promises God’s blessings to those who heed this call and turn back to God in faithfulness, but also promises judgment on all that rebel against God.
Notice the great promise Joel makes in chapter 2:28-32. Peter quoted these verses but prefaced his quote saying: “This is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel…” The coming of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost IS THAT which was promised! There were several aspects to this promise:
· A New Revelation – as seen by God providing prophets. – Acts 2:17-18
· Confirmation of such revelation with great wonders and signs – Acts 2:19-20
· Salvation – Acts 2:21
The new message: Jesus is the Son of God who was rejected and crucified, but whom God raised to life and sat Him upon the promised throne of David as King and LORD.
The confirmation specifically here was the coming of the Spirit and the apostles speaking in languages.
The salvation message was simple and direct:
· 36 "Therefore let all the house of Israel know for certain that God has made Him both Lord and Christ—this Jesus whom you crucified."
· 37 Now when they heard this, they were pierced to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, "Brethren, what shall we do?"
· 38 Peter said to them, "Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. 39 "For the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call to Himself." Acts 2:36-39
So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls. Acts 2:41
Jesus is STILL King of kings and Lord of lords. Jesus still offers forgiveness to those who trust in Him, repent of their sins, and turn to him being baptized in His name. Have you received this word?
This was the BEGINNING for them, for then “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread, and to prayer.” (vs. 42).
Are you continuing steadfast?
Hugh DeLong
