Joel 2:1-17

THE SCOURGE THE FORERUNNER OF THE DAY OF JEHOVAH; HIGH TIME TO REPENT, Joel 2:1-17.

Several expositors see in the locusts of Joel 2:1-11, a swarm different from that described in chapter 1. Credner thinks that the swarm of chapter 1 appeared in the fall, and on its departure left eggs which, in the following spring, were hatched out, and so formed an even more numerous host. It is more likely, however, that we have to do with only one swarm. The difference in the description is due to the fact that in chapter 1 the prophet is concerned primarily with the calamity already wrought; only briefly does he touch upon its deeper significance (Joel 2:15). In Joel 2:1-11, the same scourge of locusts is in his mind, but now he thinks of it chiefly as the immediate precursor of the terrible day of Jehovah. Joel 2:1-17, therefore, is an expansion of Joel 1:14-15. This apocalyptic significance of the locusts accounts for the highly poetic description of the swarms which, likened to a hostile army, are called the army of Jehovah coming to judgment (Joel 2:1-11). Although the command is already given there is still a possibility of mercy. If the people return to God with a contrite heart the calamity may yet be averted (Joel 2:12-14). The address closes with an earnest summons to the whole congregation to assemble for prayer and fasting in the house of God, and with instruction to the priests concerning the manner of their ministry (Joel 2:15-17).