(800 B.C.?) [A prophecy from God to Joel.] Joel, son of Pethuel, speaks to all Judah giving instructions for his message to be passed from present to future generations. Laments over the condition of the land and people of Judah caused by God's judgment upon their sin. He calls for their repentance and a fast by their religious leaders. A graphic description given of the current unprecedented pestilence of locusts. Famine, crop failure, withered grazing grass, scarce water, vine failure, even the cattle are confused. All cry to the Lord, even the beasts.

God announces His terrible day of judgment in Zion, preparing them for what is to come upon them: fire, darkness, desolation, locusts, an undefeatable army, earthquakes, and celestial occurrences. "Who shall abide it?" A call to repentance with fasting, weeping, mourning, and a heart rending turn to Him. His promise of mercy, kindness, and provision of blessing, if obedient. Instructions for a national solemn assembly for prayer for deliverance. Then God will respond and cut off Judah's enemies. Encourages all, including the beasts of the field, not to fear, but rejoice for His coming blessings and restoration. Predicts a future outpouring of His Spirit upon all flesh for prophecy, dreams, and visions. Many wonders will be shown before the great and terrible day of the Lord, with the sun darkened and moon turned to blood. Whosoever calls upon Him will be saved, even the remnant of Judah whom He shall call.

In the latter days, the captivity of Judah and Jerusalem will be gathered home. All nations brought down into the Valley of Jehoshaphat (the Kidron, east side of Jerusalem) for judgment because of their mistreatment of His people. Temple belongings to be returned from the nations who took them. Vengeance taken upon all the nations who treated Israel unkindly. To be proclaimed to the Gentiles and warned to prepare for war and assemble. A sickle then to be thrust in for reaping. God will make Himself known and Zion will be His dwelling place. His land and people He will bless abundantly, with new wine, milk, and water. Egypt and Edom will be desolate, and Judah will dwell forever, with a thorough cleansing of their blood.