Joel / week 2

Christians long for that great and final day when the Lord will return. But the day of the Lord will not be the same for everyone. For some it will be a day of indescribable joy and blessing. For others it will be a day of judgment and terror. In this final section of his book, Joel looks at both aspects of the day of the Lord.

Read Joel 2:28-3:21

Discovering the Word

• According to 2:28-31, what signs will precede the "coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD"?

• What have the nations done to provoke the Lord's judgment (3:1-8)?

• The Lord commands the nations to prepare for war (3:9). How does their battle relate to the Lord's judgment (3:9-16)?

• Joel describes the Lord as a lion, a thunderstorm, a refuge and a stronghold (3:16). What do these images reveal about the God we serve?

• What blessings does the Lord promise his people (3:16-21)?

Applying the Word

• Peter claimed Joel's prophecy was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:17-21, 38-40). How then does Joel's promise of the Spirit and salvation apply to us (2:28-32)?

• What has Joel taught you about preparing for the day of the Lord?

• What steps do you need to take to be prepared?

Responding in Prayer

Ask God to make you always ready for his return.