Chapter Summary

Joel's warnings of desolation upon Israel, and call to repentance. The plague of insects.

Discussion Questions for Joel, Chapter 1

1. The Bible is full of metaphors or similies. How do the ones in this chapter help us to understand or gain a new perspective on this passage? Which of these is the most significant to you?
2. In this passage the people of Judah are being called to repentance by Joel. How does this speak to the power of God?
3. This chapter seems to have a dark and lamenting tone. How does this speak to the importance of repentance in our own lives?
4. What are some of the consequences listed at the end of the chapter if the people do not repent? What is the significance of that today?
5. In verse five Joel calls the people of Judah drunkards and tells them to awake. What are some ways you might see yourself or society acting as drunkards that need to be awakened?
6. In the first 12 verses Joel depicts a drought that destroys their crops and live stock. The second half of the passage is outlined as a call to repentance. How can a drought in our spiritual life awaken us and lead us to repentance?
7. The first part of this chapter is outlined as "An Invasion of Locusts." How does this speak to the nature of sin if we allow it to run rampant in our lives without repentance? What are some ways we can avoid this?
8. Joel speaks about many different people types; some examples being elders, children, fathers, and priests. Was this done intentionally? If so what is the significnace of this?
9. What is so bad about the unwillingness to repent? How does this passage speak against this?
10. What other stories in the Bible speak about repentance and the dangers of living in sin? What are some similarities to this passage?

Key Words/Phrase

Destruction, v. 15.

Characters

God, Joel.

Strong Verse(s)

15