Book Introduction - Joel

Writer: Joel

Joel, a prophet of Judah, probably exercised his ministry during the reign of Joash (2Chr 22. to 24.). In his youth he may have known Elijah, and he certainly was a contemporary of Elisha. The plagues of insects, which were the token of the divine chastening, give occasion for the unveiling of the coming "day of the Lord" (Isaiah 2:12, refs.), in its two aspects of judgment on the Gentiles and blessing for Israel.

Joel is in three chief parts:

1. The plague of insects, 1:1-20.
2. The day of the Lord, 2:1-3:8.
3. Retrospect of the day of the Lord, and full kingdom blessing, 3:9-21.