Joel Chapters 3 – 4
Chapter 3 is a very short chapter. In Christian Bibles, it is part of Chapter 2. Why do you think it is set apart as its own chapter in the Hebrew Bible?
Verses 3:1-2 have been mentioned as an indication that the nature of prophecy was changing in Joels time and that he prophesied at a time when the role of prophets was diminishing. Do you agree? How might these verses shed light on the nature of prophecy in his time? (If you have time, compare a different take on the future of prophecy in Zechariah 13:2-6.)
Chapter 3:5 talks about a remnant. How is this similar to or different from the remnant described in Zephaniah 3:12-13?
Chapter 4 describes the judgment against the nations. How does it differ from Zephaniah 2?
What is the meaning of the Valley of Jehoshafat (4:2, 4:12)? Do you think this is the same place as the Emek HaHarutz – Valley of Decision (4:14)?
How does the metaphor found in Chapter 4:13 compare with the metaphor used in Zephaniah 1:7. What is the meaning of קציר בשל the crop is ripe?
Zechariah 13:1 describes a fountain (makor) coming forth from the Temple mount, and this imagery is also found in Ezekiel 47:1-12. How do these images compare to Joel 4:18?
Joel 4:17 provides a counterpoint to Zechariah 14:16. What might be the impetus behind Joels statement? Behind Zechariahs statement? How are these conflicting views still with us today?
Compare Joel 4:21 to Exodus 34:7. Why do you think the book of Joel concludes the way it does?
How do you see chapters 1-2 of Joel connected to these last two chapters? Does the book hold together for you and if so, how?
What message does the Book of Joel offer us for our time?
Video Conclusions