In the eschatological day when the LORD restores Judah and Jerusalem, He will gather all nations to the Valley of Jehoshaphat for judgment concerning their treatment of Israel—scattering His people, dividing His land, and selling Jewish children for prostitutes and wine. The nations are summoned to prepare war, beat plowshares into swords, and gather for the final harvest when the LORD roars from Zion and the heavens and earth shake. Yet Zion will be holy, Egypt and Edom will be desolate for violence against Judah, a fountain will flow from the LORD's house, and the LORD will dwell in Zion forever—the kingdom shall be the LORD's.
Read Joel Chapter 3 Summary
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Egypt
View on MapEgypt plays a significant role throughout the Bible, from the time of Abraham to the flight of the Holy Family. Joseph was sold into slavery there and rose to become second to Pharaoh, saving his family during famine. The Israelites were enslaved in Egypt for 400 years before God delivered them through Moses in the Exodus. Jesus' family fled to Egypt to escape King Herod, fulfilling the prophecy "Out of Egypt I called my son."
Edom
View on MapEdom was the mountainous region south of the Dead Sea, inhabited by the descendants of Esau (also called Edom). The Edomites were relatives of Israel but often hostile. The prophet Obadiah pronounced judgment against Edom for their treatment of Judah during Jerusalem's fall.
The Wilderness
View on MapThe wilderness refers to the desert regions of Sinai and Judea. Israel wandered here for 40 years after the Exodus. John the Baptist preached in the wilderness of Judea, and Jesus was tempted by Satan in the wilderness for 40 days. It represents testing, preparation, and encounter with God.
Position in Book
The Locust PlagueChapters 1
The Day of the LordChapters 2:1-17
Warning of judgment, call to repentance, promise of mercy.
Restoration and SpiritChapters 2:18-3:21
Promise of restoration, outpouring of the Spirit, final judgment of nations.