Joel 2:32

“And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call.”

Context and Background:Joel was one of the minor prophets in the Old Testament. The book of Joel is primarily focused on God’s judgment upon the people of Judah due to their disobedience, but it also contains messages of hope and restoration. The specific verse, Joel 2:32, is part of a larger passage that discusses the Day of the Lord, a time of both judgment and deliverance.

Calling on the Name of the LORD:The central theme of Joel 2:32 is the act of “calling on the name of the LORD.” This phrase implies seeking God, acknowledging His authority, and placing trust in Him. It represents an intimate and personal relationship with God through prayer and supplication.

Deliverance:The verse assures that “whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered.” Here, deliverance refers to being saved or rescued from the judgment and wrath of God. It emphasizes God’s willingness to hear the cries of His people and His desire to save them when they turn to Him in repentance and faith.

Mount Zion and Jerusalem:The verse states that “in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance.” Mount Zion and Jerusalem were significant locations in ancient Israel. They were closely associated with God’s dwelling place and His presence among His people. Here, they symbolize the spiritual center where God’s deliverance will take place. It highlights the idea that deliverance will come from God Himself, from the place where He has chosen to reveal His power and salvation.

The Remnant:The verse also mentions “the remnant whom the LORD shall call.” The remnant refers to a small group or leftover portion of the people of Israel who remained faithful to God amidst the larger unfaithful population. They are the ones whom God will call and save. This concept is a recurring theme in the Bible, highlighting God’s faithfulness to preserve a faithful remnant even in times of judgment.

Overall, Joel 2:32 offers a message of hope and assurance to those who seek God. It emphasizes the power of calling upon the name of the LORD for deliverance and highlights the role of God’s chosen place (mount Zion and Jerusalem) and the faithful remnant in experiencing His salvation.