It
will happen that whoever will call on Yahweh’s name shall be saved; for in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be those who escape, as Yahweh has said, and among the remnant, those whom Yahweh calls.
Joel 2:32
Joel 2 [30.] I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth:
blood, fire, and pillars of smoke.
The sun will be turned into darkness,
and the moon into blood,
before the great and terrible day of Yahweh comes.
It will happen that whoever will call on Yahweh’s name shall be saved;
for in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be those who escape,
as Yahweh has said,
and among the remnant, those whom Yahweh calls.
Joel 3 [1.] “For, behold, in those days,
and in that time,
when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem...
Meaning:
- Key Themes:
The Universality of Salvation: The opening declaration, "whoever will call on Yahweh’s name shall be saved," emphasizes the inclusivity of God's salvation. It transcends boundaries and is extended to all who turn to Yahweh in genuine repentance and faith.
The Place of Escape - Mount Zion and Jerusalem: The specific mention of Mount Zion and Jerusalem holds symbolic and prophetic significance. These locations were central to the identity of Israel, and the escape to Zion symbolizes divine deliverance and restoration.
The Concept of the Remnant: The term "remnant" denotes a surviving, faithful group chosen by God. In the context of Joel, it signifies those who remain steadfast in their allegiance to Yahweh amidst challenges and upheavals.
Divine Calling: The verse concludes with the notion that salvation is not only a response to human initiative but is also a result of God's calling. It emphasizes the divine agency in the process of redemption.
- Significance of the Verse:
Accessible Salvation: Joel 2:32 echoes the universal accessibility of salvation. It assures that anyone, regardless of background or status, can find deliverance and refuge by calling on the name of Yahweh.
Hope Amidst Adversity: In the broader context of Joel's prophecies, this verse offers hope amidst the imagery of locust plagues and divine judgments. It assures the faithful that a remnant will be preserved through divine intervention.
Relevance Today:
Inclusivity of God's Grace: In a world marked by diversity and complexity, Joel 2:32 remains relevant by affirming the inclusivity of God's grace. It stands as a timeless invitation for individuals from all walks of life to find salvation in the name of Yahweh.
Assurance in Turbulent Times: Just as Joel's words provided assurance to the Israelites facing crises, Joel 2:32 continues to offer comfort to those navigating challenging circumstances. It assures believers that God's promise of salvation holds steadfast.
Divine Calling in Salvation: The concept of divine calling underscores the sovereignty of God in the process of salvation. It reminds us that our journey toward God is not solely our initiative but a response to the divine invitation.
Cross-References:
Romans 10:13: "For, 'Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.'" Paul, in Romans, echoes Joel's proclamation, emphasizing the universal principle of salvation through calling on the name of the Lord.
Acts 2:21: "It will be that whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved." Peter, in his sermon on the day of Pentecost, references Joel's prophecy, affirming its fulfillment in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
In Conclusion: Joel 2:32 stands as a resounding declaration of hope, proclaiming the accessibility of salvation to all who call on the name of Yahweh. It speaks across the ages, resonating with the universality of God's grace and the enduring promise of deliverance for those who turn to Him.