Joel 2: Group Study Handout

Overview

Yahweh commands to blow the trumpet in Zion and warn the people about the coming day of Yahweh (vv. 1-2). An army comes, bringing destruction like a fire, devouring everything in their path (vv. 3-5). The presence of this army causes fear and anguish among the people (vv. 6-11). Yahweh calls for repentance, urging the people to turn to Him with their hearts, not just outward signs (vv. 12-14). He calls the people to gather for mourning and to sanctify a fast (vv. 15-17). Yahweh expresses His jealousy for His land and promises to restore what was lost. He will bring plenty again (vv. 18-27). Finally, Yahweh declares He will pour out His Spirit on all flesh, leading to prophecy and visions before the great day of Yahweh (vv. 28-32).

Key verse

“It will happen afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; and your sons and your daughters will prophesy. Your old men will dream dreams. Your young men will see visions.”

Joel 2:28 (WEB)

Outline

1. Joel 2:1–2 Sounding the Alarm
2. Joel 2:3–5 Destructive Imagery of the Army
3. Joel 2:6–11 Fear and Anguish
4. Joel 2:12–14 Call to Repentance
5. Joel 2:15–17 Gathering for Mourning
6. Joel 2:18–27 Promise of Restoration
7. Joel 2:28–32 Outpouring of the Spirit

Discussion questions

1. In v1, what does the trumpet in Zion signify regarding the day of Yahweh?
2. What imagery is used in v3 to describe the devastation caused by the army?
3. In vv. 12-13, why does Yahweh call for the people to turn to Him with 'fasting' and 'mourning'?
4. In v28, what does the phrase 'pour out my Spirit' suggest about the nature of prophecy in the future?
5. When have you felt a need to 'turn to Yahweh' in a time of distress?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Joel 2: Isaiah 44, Acts 2, Jeremiah 29.

Before next time: read Joel 3.