Spiritual Days

Introduction: Joel’s prophecy that starts ominously is now transitioning to great optimism. The hope for Israel is not found in war-time strategy but will be established in revival. This looks past their time, past our time and onto the Tribulation period.

I. Pouring of the Spirit (2:28-29)

Sovereign Act (2:28a) - “After this, I will pour out My Spirit on all humanity;”

“Neither will I hide my face any more from them: for I have poured out my spirit upon the house of Israel, saith the Lord God.” - Ezekiel 39:29

“And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.” - Luke 3:6

44 While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came down on all those who heard the message. 45 The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astounded because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. 46 For they heard them speaking in [other] languages and declaring the greatness ofGod. Then Peter responded, 47 "Can anyone withhold water and prevent these from being baptized, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?" - Acts 10:44-47 (HCSB)

Sweeping Act (2:28b-29) - “then your sons and your daughters will prophesy, your old men will have dreams, and your young men will see visions. 29 I will even pour out My Spirit on the male and female slaves in those days.”

“Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcision and uncircumcision, barbarian, Scythian, slave and free; but Christ is all and in all.” - Colossians 3:11 (HCSB)

II. Powerful Signs (2:30-31)

Warning Signs (2:30) - “ I will display wonders in the heavens and on the earth: blood, fire, and columns of smoke.”

“29 "Immediately after the tribulation of those days: The sun will be darkened, and the moon will not shed its light; the stars will fall from the sky, and the celestial powers will be shaken.” - Matthew 24:29

Wonderous Signs (2:31) - “ The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the great and awe-inspiring Day of the Lord comes.”

III. People’s Salvation (2:32)

Appeal to Salvation (2:32a) - “Then everyone who calls on the name of Yahweh will be saved,”

Assignment of Salvation (2:32b) - “ for there will be an escape for those on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem, as the Lord promised, among the survivors the Lord calls.”

“But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:” - 2 Thessalonians 2:13