Joel 2:10-13 - Even now, return to Me

2:10,11

Cosmic language is now used. Remember that this was being used to describe a locust swarm, and a military invasion. The vast numbers of locusts did indeed block out the sun and moon. So when we read similar imagery in apocalyptic passages (eg Matthew 24, Revelation) we need to be careful in over literal interpretations. At the same time we need to beware of under literal interpretations. The locust swarm was very real, and utterly devastating. The military invasion would be even more terrible. And it was all talking about God’s judgement. So when we encounter this sort of imagery we need to take it very realistically.

Then this section closes with a clear statement that it is the Lord that is leading this judgement, it s the day of the Lord, not some random or unfortunate event.

2:12,13

We now get one of the most dramatic changes of tone in the Bible, yet one that sums up the gospel. We have had a chapter and a half of vivid descriptions of judgment. One slightly unusual feature, when compared with other prophets such as Amos, is that there is no catalogue of sins given. It is just assumed that they are sinners, and the it is the consequences that are focused on, the fact that God will judge. This is a message that our world needs to hear. God will judge. But the purpose is not to relish the judgement, but to bring the people to their senses. “Yet even now ...” The people are called upon to repent and return to the Lord. And they are to do so with intent of purpose, with fasting, weeping and mourning. “Rend your hearts ...” The repentance is to be genuine. Both the cultural norms and religious practice had lots of outward actions, outward religious rituals, but God wanted a change of heart. And heart in the Bible encompasses the mind, emotions and the will, not just the emotions. If they did this then they would find a merciful God, a gracious God, and disaster would not occur.

The gospel, as in the gospel found in the Bible, not the make believe nonsense that often passes for the gospel, is the same. There is a clear delineation of our sin and sinfulness, followed by the unlimited offer of forgiveness and eternal life.