God’s Spirit Poured Out

Joel 2:28–32
» View this passage in NIV (Bible Gateway)

In this passage it seems that Joel has compressed together in prophetic fashion events separated by hundreds of years. Some of these special events of history are:

1. The locust plague in Joel’s day.
2. The day of Pentecost on which the Holy Spirit was made available to all mankind.
3. The Great Tribulation.
4. The establishment of the Millennium following the events of the Tribulation.

The “Day of the Lord” so vividly portrayed by those in Joel’s day will come in full force against the enemies of God’s people one day yet future (v. 31). The promises contained here will find their ultimate and absolute fulfillment as the Lord intervenes on Israel’s behalf (v. 28-32), judges the nation’s enemies (3:1-16), and then establishes His people in their land (3:17-21).

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit predicted by Joel occurred on Pentecost. While in the past God’s Spirit seemed available to kings, prophets and judges. Joel envisioned a time when the Holy Spirit would be available to every believer. Ezekiel also spoke of an outpouring of the Spirit (Ezek. 39:28-29). God’s Spirit is available now to anyone who calls on the Lord. On the day of Pentecost the Apostle Peter quoted Joel 2:28-32 in conjunction with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:17-21). Peter is saying that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost is the fulfillment of that which was prophesied by the prophet Joel. Judgment and mercy go hand in hand. God’s intention is not to destroy but to heal and to save. However, we must accept His salvation or we will certainly perish with the unrepentant.

Application

The rapture of the Church is the next event on God’s prophetic timetable. When will it happen? No one knows but it could be at any time. I want to be ready with all of my accounts settled with the Lord. I should be ready, just as if I were expecting the President to visit my house tomorrow.