Joel 2:32

Commentary on Joel 2:32 (KJV)

Joel 2:32 is a profound prophetic statement, offering a beacon of hope amidst warnings of judgment. It encapsulates God's enduring promise of salvation and deliverance to those who seek Him.

Context

The Book of Joel opens with a vivid description of a devastating locust plague, which serves as a powerful metaphor for an impending "Day of the LORD"—a time of divine judgment and purification. Following this dire warning and a call to repentance, the prophet Joel shifts to a message of restoration and blessing. Chapter 2 promises the outpouring of God's Spirit (Joel 2:28-29), leading directly into the great promise of deliverance in verse 32. This verse stands as a climactic assurance that even in the face of judgment, God provides a way of escape and salvation.

Key Themes

• Universal Offer of Salvation: The phrase "whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD" highlights the inclusive nature of God's mercy. It extends beyond a specific nation or group to anyone who genuinely seeks Him. This universality is later affirmed in the New Testament, notably when Peter quotes this verse on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:21) and by Paul in his explanation of salvation (Romans 10:13).
• The Act of "Calling on the Name": This is more than a mere utterance; it implies an act of sincere faith, trust, and reliance upon God. To "call on the name of the LORD" (Hebrew: qara' b'shem YHWH) signifies acknowledging His identity, authority, and power, and appealing to Him for help and salvation.
• Mount Zion and Jerusalem as Places of Deliverance: Historically, Mount Zion and Jerusalem were central to Israel's identity as the place where God's temple resided and where His presence dwelt. Prophetically, they symbolize the spiritual dwelling place of God and the ultimate source of salvation. Deliverance originates from God Himself, who is associated with these holy places.
• The Remnant: The mention of "the remnant whom the LORD shall call" points to God's sovereign choice and preservation of a faithful few. Even when the majority may stray, God always keeps a group of people who remain true to Him and respond to His call for salvation. This concept of a remnant is common throughout Old Testament prophecy (Isaiah 10:21, Romans 11:5).

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "delivered" is malat (מָלַט), which means "to escape," "to save oneself," or "to be rescued." It conveys a sense of urgent flight from danger and being brought to safety. This emphasizes that salvation is an active rescue by God from impending peril.

Practical Application

Joel 2:32 offers profound comfort and challenge for believers today:

• Hope in Crisis: Regardless of the challenges, judgments, or difficulties faced—whether personal, societal, or global—this verse assures that deliverance is available through God.
• Simplicity of Salvation: The pathway to salvation is straightforward: "call on the name of the LORD." This is a call to repentance and faith, accessible to all.
• God's Faithfulness: The verse reminds us that God is true to His word. What He has promised, He will surely bring to pass, both in terms of individual salvation and His ultimate redemptive plan for humanity.
• Embrace the Call: For those who have not yet called upon the Lord, this verse serves as an invitation. For those who have, it is a reminder of the precious truth upon which their hope rests.

This powerful verse bridges Old Testament prophecy with New Testament fulfillment, demonstrating God's consistent plan to save all who turn to Him in faith.