Connection with the Pentecost experience
The best known passage from Joel is 2:28-29 where, it is said, all people – including sons and daughters, old men and young men, even slaves – will be able to prophesy. God will pour out the spirit on all people. The New Testament author of Acts uses this passage in Peter’s speech to interpret the experience of people speaking and understanding many different languages. It links the Hebrew Bible with the experience of those first Christians.
Sistine Chapel
Joel is one of seven prophets (also DanielAn interpreter of dreams who was delivered from the lions’ den. More, EzekielEzekiel was a priest and prophet who was raised in Jerusalem and exiled to Babylon in 597 BCE. More, IsaiahIsaiah, son of Amoz, who prophesied in Jerusalem, is included among the prophets of the eighth century BCE (along with Amos, Hosea, and Micah)–preachers who boldly proclaimed God’s word of judgment against the economic, social, and religious disorders of their time. More, JeremiahProphet who condemned Judah’s infidelity to God, warned of Babylonian conquest, and promised a new covenant. More, JonahJonah son of Amittai was a rebellious prophet who fled from the Lord’s command, only to be delivered by a big and fish and bring about the repentance of Nineveh. More, Zechariah) painted in the chapel. Michelangelo paints Joel in a sitting position looking at an opened scroll and wearing a robe and red band. The balding prophet does not appear happy about the content of the scroll. Perhaps he is reading his own words of disaster and judgment.
Your Daughters Shall Prophesy
The phrase “your daughters shall prophecy” from Joel 2:28 has been quoted in the Christian tradition to support women’s leadership in the Church. In the 20th century and today, for example, Pentecostals and Baptists use Joel to argue for women preachers who are ordained by the Spirit.