The Basics: A Brief Overview of the Book of Joel

The Basics course is designed to help brothers and sisters in Christ, who have a desire for a brief study over each of the books of the Bible. While being more than just a timeline, it is designed to give a person a more realistic overview of the entire Bible. As well as pointing out different highlights along the way. Imagine riding in a car and seeing exit signs for a town. Each sign gives a brief glimpse of what is inside, while if you wanted to thoroughly investigate the town you would have to take the exit. This series is a collected work of the books of the Bible while continuing to drive past each of the exits. I would encourage you to take any exit and allow the Lord God to direct your path to where He would guide. 

The Bible is written into 66 different books. Each one unique on its own but designed to be with its other collected works. 

Cautionary Note: This work is not to argue for the authenticity of the Bible nor is it to argue over the mechanics of how God used man to write His Words. This is designed as an overview for someone to review the book in passing. Nevertheless, we here at Mill House Ministries believe that the Bible is without error and was written by God, through His divine attributes, through man. 

These overviews are sequenced in the below fashion. Each overview is designed to flow in unison. 

1.) Introduction

2.) Who wrote it

3.) When did they write it

4.) Key topics

5.) Key sections

6.) Books that interact with each other

7.) Analysis of the Book

As previously stated, if you find yourself drawn to one of these books, please take the time and see what God is wanting to show you in that book. 

BASICS COURSE: 

Joel

INTRODUCTION: 

Not much is known about Joel other than what is written in his book. But what we do know is, he probably knew or had heard of Elijah and Elisha. Like with the other 12 Minor Prophets, they are not so minor, and we encourage you to read our post on the why they are called Minor.

WHO WROTE IT: 

The book of Joel is named after its author Joel.  

WHEN DID THEY WRITE IT: 

The timing that this book is written is during Joel’s own ministry which Biblical scholars, historians, and archaeologists have identified roughly around 760- 720 B.C.  We have provided a quote here for references of a discussion regarding the date of the book of Joel.

“Dating the book relies solely on canonical position, historical allusions, and linguistic elements. Because of: 1) the lack of any mention of later world powers (Assyria, Babylon, or Persia); 2) the fact that Joel’s style is like that of Hosea and Amos rather than of the post-Exilic prophets; and 3) the verbal parallels with other early prophets (Joel 3:16/Amos 1:2; Joel 3:18/Amos 9:13), a late ninth century B.C. date, during the reign of Joash (ca. 835–796 B.C.), seems most convincing. Nevertheless, while the date of the book cannot be known with certainty, the impact on its interpretation is minimal. The message of Joel is timeless, forming doctrine which could be repeated and applied in any age.”[1]

KEY TOPICS:

The key topic of Joel is the day of the Lord. It is a detailed description of what God is planning on doing.    

KEY SECTIONS: 

The book has been divided up by many in different ways and under different scrutiny. In an attempt to review the material in writing of this post, I am still uncertain that it can be rightfully divided into sections. I believe depending on the study and what you are reviewing, the book of Joel is adaptable in its sectional review. I would argue that a good reader of God’s word should take into account sitting and reading the entire book and leaving no stone unturned to see where God might be leading you to understand and know.

BOOKS THAT INTERACT WITH EACH OTHER: 

Joel is directly connected to the book of Acts and Revelation. Joel’s Pentecostal and apocalyptic references relate directly to both books. If you find this strange, don’t. Both books document events when God is acting in a mighty way for all to see. Joel is the announcement of His actions.

ANALYSIS OF THE BOOK: 

While small, the book is powerful. Revealing God’s coming judgement on mankind but also what He plans to do with Israel and others. Here we see the promise of the Holy Spirit to those who are saved, but also the coming judgement for those who are not. Joel is a unique book that you can read for its prophetic context, but also its theological and societal relationship.

Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,

JL

[1] Bible Introductions - Joel by John MacArthur (blueletterbible.org)