EGW WritingsJoel 2
Ellen G. White
Read Joel 2 in the BibleJoel 2:1-11
The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 35—God’s People Delivered
4SP 455.1
Said the prophets of old as they beheld in holy vision the day of God: “Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.” “And the Lord shall utter his voice before his army; for his camp is very great; for he is strong that executeth his word; for the day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?” [Joel 2:1, 11.] “Howl ye; for the day of the Lord is at hand; it shall come as a destruction from the Almighty.” [Isaiah 13:6.] “Enter into the rock, and hide thee in the dust, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty. The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be bowed down, and the Lord alone shall be exalted in that day. For the day of the Lord of hosts shall be upon every one that is proud and lofty, and upon every one that is lifted up; and he shall be brought low.” [Isaiah 2:10-12.] “In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made each one for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats; to go into the clefts of the rocks, and into the tops of the ragged rocks, for fear of the Lord, and for the glory of his majesty, when he ariseth to shake terribly the earth.” [Isaiah 2:20, 21.]Joel 2:1-14
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 360, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 360, 1905, par. 14
“Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in My holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.” “Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth Him of the evil. Who knoweth if He will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind Him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the Lord your God?” [Joel 2:1, 12-14.]Joel 2:1-17
From Here to Forever
The Call to Arouse
HF 193.2
“The day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.” “Sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children: ... Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar.” “Turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness.” Joel 2:1, 15-17, 12, 13.The Great Hope (Condensed)
The Call to Prepare
GrH_c 39.4
“The day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.” “Sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children:... Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar.” “Turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness.” Joel 2:1, 15-17, 12, 13.Joel 2:1-31
The Great Controversy
Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning
GC 308.1
May 19, 1780, stands in history as “The Dark Day.” Since the time of Moses no period of darkness of equal density, extent, and duration, has ever been recorded. The description of this event, as given by eyewitnesses, is but an echo of the words of the Lord, recorded by the prophet Joel, twenty-five hundred years previous to their fulfillment: “The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the Lord come.” Joel 2:31.GC 310.1
It was needful that men should be awakened to their danger; that they should be roused to prepare for the solemn events connected with the close of probation. The prophet of God declares: “The day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?” Who shall stand when He appeareth who is “of purer eyes than to behold evil,” and cannot “look on iniquity”? Joel 2:11; Habakkuk 1:13. To them that cry, “My God, we know Thee,” yet have transgressed His covenant, and hastened after another god, hiding iniquity in their hearts, and loving the paths of unrighteousness—to these the day of the Lord is “darkness, and not light, even very dark, and no brightness in it.” Hosea 8:2, 1; Psalm 16:4; Amos 5:20. “It shall come to pass at that time,” saith the Lord, “that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees: that say in their heart, The Lord will not do good, neither will He do evil.” Zephaniah 1:12. “I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.” Isaiah 13:11. “Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them;” “their goods shall become a booty, and their houses a desolation.” Zephaniah 1:18, 13.GC 311.1
In view of that great day the word of God, in the most solemn and impressive language, calls upon His people to arouse from their spiritual lethargy and to seek His face with repentance and humiliation: “Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in My holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.” “Sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children: ... let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar.” “Turn ye even to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness.” Joel 2:1, 15-17, 12, 13.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning
GC88 308.3
May 19, 1780, stands in history as “The Dark Day.” Since the time of Moses, no period of darkness of equal density, extent, and duration has ever been recorded. The description of this event, as given by the poet and the historian, is but an echo of the words of the Lord, recorded by the prophet Joel, twenty-five hundred years previous to their fulfillment: “The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come.” [Joel 2:31.]GC88 309.3
It was needful that men should be awakened to their danger; that they should be roused to prepare for the solemn events connected with the close of probation. The prophet of God declares: “The day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?” [Joel 2:11.] Who shall stand when He appeareth who is “of purer eyes than to behold evil, and cannot look on iniquity?” [Habakkuk 1:13.] To them that cry, “My God, we know thee,” yet have transgressed his covenant, and hastened after another god, [Hosea 8:2, 1; Psalm 16:4.] hiding iniquity in their hearts, and loving the paths of unrighteousness, to these, the day of the Lord is “darkness, and not light, even very dark, and no brightness in it.” [Amos 5:20.] “It shall come to pass at that time,” saith the Lord, “that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are settled on their lees; that say in their heart, The Lord will not do good, neither will he do evil.” [Zephaniah 1:12.] “I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.” [Isaiah 13:11.] “Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them;” “their goods shall become a booty, and their houses a desolation.” [Zephaniah 1:18, 13.]GC88 310.3
In view of that great day the Word of God, in the most solemn and impressive language, calls upon his people to arouse from their spiritual lethargy, and to seek his face with repentance and humiliation: “Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain. Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble; for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand.” “Sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly. Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children.... Let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar.” “Turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning. And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God; for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness.” [Joel 2:1, 15-18, 12, 13.]Joel 2:1-32
Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh-day Adventists
Persecution for Preaching the First Angel’s Message
HS 204.2
“When we were brought before the governor for examination, he demanded by what authority we were sent to preach. We referred him to Joel 2, and Revelation 14:6-8, and told him further that the Spirit of God came upon us with such power that we could not resist it. After a number of questions he angrily said, ‘I will cure you of your foolishness.’ He then lashed us till his strength failed, when he threw the scourge to his private secretary, and ordered him to continue the lashing. After being severely punished in this way, we were returned to our cell. The same treatment was repeated the next day. The governor ended by saying, ‘If you do not cease your preaching, I will shut you up where neither sun nor moon can ever shine upon you.’Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887
Indications of Reformation History
EGWE 107.4
When asked by the governor by what authority they were sent to preach, they replied, “Joel 2 and Revelation 14:6-8.” They testified simply, “The Spirit of God came upon us with such power that we could not resist it.” For almost a year they continued their proclamation of the Advent message.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 18, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 18, 1904, par. 16
The second chapter of Joel speaks of the judgments that will come upon the world for their iniquity:19LtMs, Ms 18, 1904, par. 18
“Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth Him of the evil. Who knoweth if He will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind Him, even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the Lord your God?” [Verses 12-14.]19LtMs, Ms 18, 1904, par. 22
“Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice: for the Lord will do great things. Be not afraid, ye beasts of the field: for the pastures of the wilderness do spring, for the tree beareth her fruit, the fig tree and the vine do yield their strength. Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month. And the floors shall be full of wheat, and the vats shall overflow with wine and oil. And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, My great army which I sent among you. And ye shall eat in plenty, and be satisfied, and praise the name of the Lord your God, that hath dealt wondrously with you: and My people shall never be ashamed.” [Verses 15-19, 21-26.]19LtMs, Ms 18, 1904, par. 24
“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out My Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens, and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the Lord come. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon 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.” [Verses 28-32.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 234, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 234, 1906, par. 20
“This I can say, that never, since I became fully acquainted with that system which we denominate ‘the present truth’ [2 Peter 1:12], so as to comprehend it in its sublime proportions, its divine harmony, and its inseparable connections, have I had the least shadow of misgiving as to its truthfulness in its fundamental principles, and its stability and final triumph, as the work of God. It is evident, also, that this work before its close must present the fulfilment of the prophecy of Joel and some prophecies of the book of Revelation. And to whatever degree I may have persuaded myself that this cause might have been so far developed without this feature which we call the gift of prophecy, it was only to look for something of the kind to appear in the future; for without this, it would lack one of the tests of being the work of the last generation.Joel 2:11-31
From Here to Forever
Moon as Blood
HF 192.1
May 19, 1780, stands in history as “The Dark Day.” Since the time of Moses no darkness of equal density, extent, and duration has ever been recorded. The description given by eyewitnesses is an echo of the words recorded by Joel 2500 years previous: “The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come.” Joel 2:31.HF 192.5
It was needful that men be roused to prepare for the solemn events connected with the close of probation. “The day of the Lord is great and very terrible; and who can abide it?” Who shall stand when He appeareth who is “of purer eyes than to behold evil,” and cannot “look on iniquity”? “I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.” “Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them;” “their goods shall become a booty, and their houses a desolation.” Joel 2:11; Habakkuk 1:13; Isaiah 13:11; Zephaniah 1:18, 13.Joel 2:12-13
Our Father Cares
The Preciousness of Secret Prayer, May 25
OFC 157.3
God has honored us by showing how greatly He values us. We are bought with a price, even the precious blood of the Son of God. When His heritage shall conscientiously follow the Word of the Lord, His blessing will rest upon them in answer to their prayers. “Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness” (Joel 2:12, 13).That I May Know Him
The Preciousness of Secret Prayer, September 23
TMK 272.3
God has honored us by showing how greatly He values us. We are bought with a price, even the precious blood of the Son of God. When His heritage shall conscientiously follow the Word of the Lord, His blessing will rest upon them in answer to their prayers. “Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness” (Joel 2:12, 13).28Ibid.Joel 2:12-17
Prophets and Kings
Chapter 51—A Spiritual Revival
PK 627.2
“Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children: ... let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach.” “Turn ye even to Me with all your hearts, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth Him of the evil. Who knoweth if He will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind Him?” Joel 2:15-17, 12-14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 66, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 66, 1897, par. 11
Please read the thirty-third chapter of Jeremiah, verses one to twenty. “Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God; for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the Lord your God? Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly; gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts; let the bridegroom go forth out of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them; wherefore would they say among the people, Where is now thy God?” [Joel 2:12-17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 90, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 90, 1897, par. 9
The world is fast becoming as it was before the flood. Satan has set up his throne in the earth, and the law of God is trampled under foot. His Sabbath, sanctified and blessed in Eden, is set aside and polluted, and a rival sabbath, the first day of the week, instituted by the man of sin, is exalted. The sins of the inhabitants of the cities and towns have reached to heaven, and it is time for men to pray in humility before God. “Therefore also now, saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God; for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil. Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him: even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the Lord your God. Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly; gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breast; let the bridegroom go forth out of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?” [Joel 2:12-17.]Joel 2:12-27
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Chapter 51—Preparation for the Final Crisis
6T 408.4
“Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children: ... let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet. Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach.” Joel 2:15-17.6T 409.1
“Turn ye even to Me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God: for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth Him of the evil. Who knoweth if He will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind Him?” Verses 12-14.6T 409.4
“And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the Lord your God, and none else: and My people shall never be ashamed.” Joel 2:27.Joel 2:13
Conflict and Courage
Caiaphas, November 13
CC 323.1
Rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God. Joel 2:13.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“When ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites.”—Matthew 6:16.
MB 87.2
The object of the fast which God calls upon us to keep is not to afflict the body for the sin of the soul, but to aid us in perceiving the grievous character of sin, in humbling the heart before God and receiving His pardoning grace. His command to Israel was, “Rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God.” Joel 2:13.The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1
Ms 1, 1854
There is no need of milk after souls are convinced of the truth. As soon as the conviction of truth is yielded to and the heart willing, the truth should have its effect; the truth will work like leaven, and purify and purge away the passions of the natural heart. It is a disgrace for those who have been in the truth for years to talk of feeding souls who have been months in the truth, upon milk. It shows they know little of the leadings of the Spirit of the Lord, and realize not the time we are living in. Those who embrace the truth now will have to step fast. There will have to be a breaking up of heart before the Lord, a rending of heart, and not the garment.11
A reference to the Jewish custom of rending one’s garments as a sign of great grief (e.g., Joel 2:13).
The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1
Ms 3, 1854
It is a disgrace for those who have been in the truth for years to talk of feeding souls who have been months in the truth, upon milk. It shows that they know but little of the leadings of the Spirit of God and realize not the time that we are living in. Those who embrace the truth now will have to step fast. And there will have to be a breaking of heart before the Lord, a rending of the heart and not the garments.12
A reference to the Jewish custom of rending one’s garments as a sign of great grief (e.g., Joel 2:13).
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 21, 1882
3LtMs, Lt 21, 1882, par. 28
“Rend your heart, and not your garments,” (Joel 2:13) saith God. Commence the work with your own individual selves and then, when imbued with the Spirit of God, go to work for your poor children. Work for time. Work for eternity. Leave nothing at loose ends to ravel out.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 41, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 41, 1892, par. 6
The Word of God reveals His character. He Himself has declared His infinite love and pity. When Moses prayed, “Show me thy glory,” the Lord answered, “I will make all my goodness pass before thee!” [Exodus 33:18, 19.] This is His glory. The Lord passed before Moses and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin.” [Exodus 34:6, 7.] He is “slow to anger, and of great kindness,” “because He delighteth in mercy.” [Joel 2:13; Micah 7:18.]Joel 2:15-17
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1
Chapter 32—The Shaking
1T 179.3
November 20, 1857, I was shown the people of God, and saw them mightily shaken. Some, with strong faith and agonizing cries, were pleading with God. Their countenances were pale, and marked with deep anxiety, expressive of their internal struggle. Firmness and great earnestness were expressed in their countenances, while large drops of perspiration fell from their foreheads. Now and then their faces would light up with the marks of God’s approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look would settle upon them. [“Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders.... Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?” Joel 2:15-17.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
The Shaking
1TT 59.1
November 20, 1857, I was shown the people of God, and saw them mightily shaken. Some, with strong faith and agonizing cries, were pleading with God. Their countenances were pale, and marked with deep anxiety, expressive of their internal struggle. Firmness and great earnestness were expressed in their countenances, while large drops of perspiration fell from their foreheads. Now and then their faces would light up with the marks of God’s approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look would settle upon them.*“Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders. ... Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?” Joel 2:15-17.“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up.” James 4:7-10.
“Gather yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation not desired; before the decree bring forth, before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord come upon you, before the day of the Lord’s anger come upon you. Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought His judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” Zephaniah 2:1-3.
From Splendor to Shadow
We Are Entering the Last Battle of the Controversy
SS 324.1
“Blow the trumpet in Zion ... . Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep and say, ‘Spare Thy people, O Lord, and make not Thy heritage a reproach.’” Joel 2:15-17, RSV.Testimony for the Church — No. 4
Vision of the Future
T04 33.1
Nov. 20th, I was shown the people of God, and saw them mightily shaken. I saw some with strong faith and agonizing cries, pleading with God. Their countenances were pale, and marked with deep anxiety which expressed their internal struggle. There was firmness and great earnestness expressed in their countenances, while large drops of perspiration rose upon their foreheads, and fell. Now and then their faces would light up with the marks of God’s approbation, and again the same solemn, earnest, anxious look settled upon them. *“Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly: gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders. . . . Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?” Joel 2:15-17.“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the Devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners, and purify your hearts, ye double-minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” James 4:7-10.
“Gather yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation not desired. Before the decree bring forth, before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord come upon you, before the day of the Lord’s anger come upon you. Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” Zephaniah 2:1-3.
Joel 2:16
The Ministry of Healing
Learning by Imparting
MH 404.5
“Gather the children.” “Make them know the statutes of God, and His laws.” Joel 2:16; Exodus 18:16.Joel 2:17
In Heavenly Places
A Moment of Respite, December 10
HP 351.4
Now is the time to lay hold of the arm of our strength. The prayer of David should be the prayer of pastors and laymen: “It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law” (Psalm 119:126). Let the servants of God weep between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach” (Joel 2:17).Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
A Work to Be Done
2TT 152.2
Those who have access to God through Christ have important work before them. Now is the time to lay hold of the arm of our strength. The prayer of David should be the prayer of pastors and laymen: “It is time for Thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void Thy law.” Psalm 119:126. Let the servants of the Lord weep between the porch and the altar, crying: “Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach.” Joel 2:17. God has always wrought for His people in their greatest extremity, when there seemed the least hope that ruin could be averted. The designs of wicked men, the enemies of the church, are subject to His power and overruling providence. He can move upon the hearts of statesmen; the wrath of the turbulent and disaffected, the haters of God, His truth, and His people can be turned aside, even as the rivers of water are turned, if He orders it thus. Prayer moves the arm of Omnipotence. He who marshals the stars in order in the heavens, whose word controls the waves of the great deep, the same infinite Creator will work in behalf of His people if they call upon Him in faith. He will restrain the forces of darkness until the warning is given to the world and all who will heed it are prepared for the conflict.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
An Unappreciated Blessing
1TT 34.2
I saw that some of the servants of God, even ministers, are so easily discouraged, self is so quickly hurt, that they imagine themselves slighted and injured when it is not so. They think their lot hard. Such realize not how they would feel should the sustaining hand of God be withdrawn, and they pass through anguish of soul. They would then find their lot tenfold harder than it was before, while they were employed in the work of God, suffering trials and privations, yet withal having the Lord’s approbation. Some that are laboring in the cause of God know not when they do have an easy time. They have had so few privations and know so little of want or wearing labor or burden of soul that when they have an easy time, when they are favored of God and almost entirely free from anguish of spirit, they know it not and think their trials great. I saw that unless such have a spirit of self-sacrifice, and are ready to labor cheerfully, not sparing themselves, God will release them. He will not acknowledge them as His self-sacrificing servants, but will raise up those who will labor, not slothfully, but in earnest, and will know when they have an easy time. God’s servants must feel the burden of souls and weep between the porch and the altar, crying: “Spare Thy people, O Lord.” Joel 2:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Ms 11, 1862
1LtMs, Ms 11, 1862, par. 5
Where is the burden for souls? Where is the weeping between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare Thy people Lord, Spare Thy people Lord”? [Joel 2:17.] Chosen men were anciently appointed to take the care and burden of the temporal necessities or business matters of the church. What for? “But we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the Word.” [Acts 6:4.] The result was the Word of God increased and the number of disciples multiplied. If the ministers were more faithful and godly, God could work for them in great power. Ministers are not to laugh and joke with the young but to be ensamples to them, that they may follow Christ as they themselves who preach to them the way of salvation follow Him. Ministers are not to be led by their wives but are to lead and instruct them, and the wife should, if she has one spark of the love for souls, ever set aside her will, her desires, and her way, and let that will and pleasure of hers be ever governed by the will of God. Hers should be a life of continual submission.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 29, 1872
2LtMs, Lt 29, 1872, par. 20
Some of our ministers carry too light responsibilities and shun individual care and burdens. For this reason they do not feel the need of help from God as [they would] if they lifted the burdens [that] the work of God, and our faith, requires them to lift. When burdens in this cause have to be lifted, when brought into strait places, they will feel the need of living near to God that they may have confidence to commit their way to Him and in faith claim that help which God alone can give. They will then be obtaining an experience every day in faith and trust which is of the highest value to a gospel minister. The work of a gospel minister is more solemn and sacred than they generally realize. They should carry a sanctified influence with them. God requires that those who minister in sacred things should be men who feel jealous for His cause. The burden of their work should be the salvation of souls. You have not felt as the prophet describes, “Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach.” Joel 2:17. “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:5, 6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 14, 1874
2LtMs, Lt 14, 1874, par. 7
The important work for this time calls for unselfish men; men who will toil; men who feel the burden of the truth upon their souls, who will not lay off the burden and take it on as they would a garment; men who would not shun toil, weariness, privation, and hardships; men who will “weep between the porch and the altar,” and cry “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach.” Joel 2:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 29a, 1872
2LtMs, Lt 29a, 1872, par. 23
Some of our ministers carry too light responsibilities and shun individual care and burdens, and for this reason they do not feel the need of help from God as if they lifted the burdens the work of God and our faith requires them to lift. When burdens in this cause have to be lifted, when brought into strait places, they will feel the need of living near to God, that they may have confidence to commit their way to Him and in faith claim that help which God alone can give. They will then be obtaining an experience every day in faith and trust which is of the highest value to a gospel minister. His work is more solemn and sacred than ministers generally realize. They should carry a sanctified influence with them. God requires that those who minister in sacred things should be men who feel jealous for His cause. The burden of their work should be the salvation of souls. Brother [Cornell], you have not felt as the prophet describes, “Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach.” Joel 2:17. “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:5, 6.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 1, 1875
2LtMs, Lt 1, 1875, par. 39
We cannot drive men into the truth, but we can work earnestly as though the souls for whom Christ died were of some value. Now is the time to work for Christ as though we could visibly behold Him, for He is at our right hand to help us. Many who are thought to be discouraging cases might be reached. A man who was breaking stone was obliged to work on his knees in order to attain success, and this is the way we must work. We must weep between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare thy people O God, and give not thine heritage to reproach. Let not the heathen say, Where is their God?” [Joel 2:17.] We must not think of such a thing as discouragement, but hold fast to souls by the grasp of faith. Do not give up those for whom you are working.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 9, 1883
4LtMs, Ms 9, 1883, par. 3
It is because self is not dead that we see so much caviling, dissension, disunion, and continual doubting. If those who show this disposition had the truth in the heart, they would not notice matters of so little consequence. They would forget self and selfish interest; they would work disinterestedly for the salvation of souls. When I think how strong we might be if we would take hold of the strength of the Mighty One, and then see how weak we are because we do not claim the promises of God, my soul cries out in anguish, “Give not thine heritage to reproach, and let not the heathen say, Where is thy God?” [Joel 2:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 5, 1883
4LtMs, Ms 5, 1883, par. 8
What is the matter? The truth we advocate is not popular; it is unpopular and ever will be, because the Sabbath truth ever involves a cross. There are enough men who are willing to preach, but they are unwilling to be laborers: they shun the working part. They are not willing to visit by the fireside, to take the Bible and try to teach its sacred doctrines in the family, to carry the burden of souls upon them, to weep between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach.” Joel 2:17. They are not willing to feel an interest for those who listen to their discourses, to become acquainted with the individual member of families, to put forth personal efforts for them, to pray for them and with them, to show the youth that they have a deep love for their souls, to lead them kindly, tenderly, lovingly, to the fold of Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 6a, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 6a, 1886, par. 4
It is our privilege to understand the great responsibilities that God has placed upon us, so that we shall not be in darkness as to what is coming upon our world. We cannot afford to meet that day without a preparation. But when we think of this great and solemn event of Christ’s coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory, we should live in great humiliation before God lest we fail of the grace of God and prove ourselves unworthy of eternal life. When we see that the world is given up to the seeking of pleasure and the indulgence of appetite, we should weep between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach.” [Joel 2:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 18, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 18, 1888, par. 29
It is now too late in the day for men to please and glorify themselves. Ministers of God, it is too late to be contending for the supremacy. The solemn time has come when ministers should be weeping between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach.” [Joel 2:17.] It is a day when, instead of lifting up their souls in self-sufficiency, ministers and people should be confessing their sins before God and one another. The law of God is made void, and even among those who advocate its binding claims are some who break its sacred precepts.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 2, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 2, 1889, par. 7
Now, here are the people of God, and God wants you to be getting ready for the great day of salvation, that you may be getting others ready. He wants you to have a fitting up, that you may have a message for the people that will cut its way through the fleshy heart and that you may go crying through the porch and the altar, “Spare the people, Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach.” [Joel 2:17.] Now open your ears to the truth you have had, and put away your doubts, unbelief, and Christless surmisings.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 27, 1889
6LtMs, Ms 27, 1889, par. 29
Let the many ministers of Christ sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly, and seek God while He is to be found. Call upon Him while you are now lying at the foot of the cross of Calvary. Divest yourselves of all pride, and, as representative guardians of the churches, weep between the porch and the altar, and cry “Spare Thy people, Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach. Take from us what Thou wilt, but withhold not Thy Holy Spirit from us, Thy people.” [Joel 2:17.] Pray, oh, pray for the outpouring of the Spirit of God!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 8, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 8, 1892, par. 23
What is to be done? Shall the president of the General Conference carry the burden of the neglects of presidents and ministers, and weep between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach”? [Joel 2:17.] Shall he feel that he is responsible for the deep sleep, the paralysis, that is upon the people of God? If he works as he has done to arouse the careless and set in order the things that others have neglected, he will become unable to labor, and will go down to an untimely grave.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 47, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 47, 1893, par. 10
In the conflict with satanic agencies there are decisive moments that determine the victory either on the side of God or on the side of the prince of this world. If those engaged in the warfare are not wide awake, earnest, vigilant, praying for wisdom, watching unto prayer, weeping between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach.” [Joel 2:17.] Satan comes off victor, when he might have been vanquished by the armies of the Lord, wearing Christ’s badge.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 25, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 25, 1894, par. 5
How can those who profess to believe the truth, practice oppression, when they know that every work will be brought into judgment? O, the hardness of the human heart! How it grieves me, and causes me to weep between the porch and the altar, and to cry, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach.” [Joel 2:17.] Selfishness and stubbornness of heart, avarice and covetousness prevail to an alarming extent. Robbery is found even in the courts of the Lord’s house. Those who are engaged in the most sacred work pollute the temple, so that the courts are in need of cleansing.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 207, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 207, 1899, par. 3
My brethren, there is need of encouraging elevated principles. Those who cherish and advocate fanciful ideas need to be taught what is truth before they attempt to teach others. Man-made theories and suppositions are not to be allowed to enter the work. But do not give the impression that there are many who are going to foolish extremes. There are a few ill-balanced minds that are ready to catch at anything of a sensational character. But I tell you that there are many in America who are as true as steel to principle, and these will be helped and blessed; for they are weeping between the porch and the altar, saying, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach.” [Joel 2:17.] We must let the great principles of the third angel’s message stand out clear and distinct. The great pillars of our faith will hold all the weight that can be placed upon them.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 352, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 352, 1905, par. 8
This gives me pain of heart. For days I have been in such heart pain that I feared I should not live until morning. We will, I said to my soul, live or die. I will bear these messages as God’s chosen messenger. I am sorely tried, but I am going to do my God-given work for souls that are hanging in the balance. And some who have need to weep between the porch and the altar and cry “Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach” are not awake. [Joel 2:17.] They are asleep. Eyes have they, but they see not; ears have they, but they hear not; and the Lord is put to open shame by their crooked, perverted, sinful ways. Oh that this influence that has been growing in resisting the messages of warning could change! Oh let us not mourn for the lack of means, but for the lack of the Holy Spirit of God!Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Lt 172, 1908
23LtMs, Lt 172, 1908, par. 11
There are some of our ministers who are true burden-bearers, whose hearts go out in prayer to God, and who weep between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach.” [Joel 2:17.] There are a few who are in earnest. But there are many who have but little sense of their great need of divine blessing.Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 895—Minneapolis General Conference and its Aftermath
11MR 239.2
Now here are the people of God and God wants you to be getting ready for the great day of salvation, that you may be getting others ready. He wants you to have a fitting-up, that you may have a message for the people that will cut its way through the fleshy heart, and that you may go crying through the porch and the altar, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach” (Joel 2:17). Now open your ears to the truth you have had and put away your doubts, unbelief, and Christless surmisings.Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
MR No. 1091—Preach God’s Word, Not Fanciful, Imaginary Doctrines
14MR 55.3
My brethren, there is need of encouraging elevated principles. Those who cherish and advocate fanciful ideas need to be taught what is truth before they attempt to teach others. Man-made theories and suppositions are not to be allowed to enter the work. But do not give the impression that there are many who are going to foolish extremes. There are a few ill-balanced minds that are ready to catch at anything of a sensational character. But I tell you that there are many in America who are as true as steel to principle, and these will be helped and blessed, for they are weeping between the porch and the altar, saying, “Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not Thine heritage to reproach” [Joel 2:17]. We must let the great principles of the third angel’s message stand out clear and distinct. The great pillars of our faith will hold all the weight that can be placed upon them.Selected Messages Book 3
An Early View of Sabbath Importance
3SM 390.2
The solemn time has come when ministers should be weeping between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach” (Joel 2:17). It is a day when, instead of lifting up their souls in self-sufficiency, ministers and people should be confessing their sins before God and one another.Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
Preparation for the Judgment (Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White June 27, 1886, Orebro, Sweden.)
1SAT 26.1
It is our privilege to understand the great responsibilities that God has placed upon us, so that we shall not be in darkness as to what is coming upon our world. We cannot afford to meet that day without a preparation. But when we think of this great and solemn event of Christ’s coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory, we should live in great humiliation before God lest we fail of the grace of God and prove ourselves unworthy of eternal life. When we see that the world is given up to the seeking of pleasure and the indulgence of appetite, we should weep between the porch and the altar, crying “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach” [Joel 2:17].Sermons and Talks, vol. 1
Picking Flaws Morning Talk by Mrs. E. G. White Ottawa, Kansas, May 12, 1889
1SAT 96.1
Now here are the people of God and God wants you to be getting ready for the great day of salvation, that you may be getting others ready. He wants you to have a fitting-up, that you may have a message for the people that will cut its way through the fleshy heart, and that you may go crying through the porch and the altar, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach” (Joel 2:17). Now open your ears to the truth you have had and put away your doubts, unbelief, and Christless surmisings.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Picking Flaws
1888 305.1
Now here are the people of God and God wants you to be getting ready for the great day of salvation, that you may be getting others ready. He wants you to have a fitting-up, that you may have a message for the people that will cut its way through the fleshy heart, and that you may go crying through the porch and the altar, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach” (Joel 2:17). Now open your ears to the truth you have had and put away your doubts, unbelief, and Christless surmisings.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 5, 1883
2SAT 11.3
What is the matter? The truth we advocate is not popular; it is unpopular and ever will be, because the Sabbath truth ever involves a cross. There are enough men who are willing to preach, but they are unwilling to be laborers; they shun the working part. They are not willing to visit by the fireside, to take the Bible and try to teach its sacred doctrines in the family, to carry the burden of souls upon them, to weep between the porch and the altar, crying, “Spare thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach” (Joel 2:17). They are not willing to feel an interest for those who listen to their discourses, to become acquainted with the individual member of families, to put forth personal efforts for them, to pray for them and with them, to show the youth that they have a deep love for their souls, to lead them kindly, tenderly, lovingly, to the fold of Christ.Joel 2:17-19
Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1312—Miscellaneous Writings on Christ’s Ministry, Health Reform, and the Christian Life
18MR 86.5
“Spare Thy People”—“Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord, and given not Thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?” [Joel 2:17]. This is the prospect threatening us now.18MR 87.1
“Then will the Lord be jealous for His land, and pity His people. Yea, the Lord will answer and say unto His people. Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen” [verses 18, 19].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 60, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 60, 1902, par. 20
“Let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare Thy people, O Lord, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?” [Joel 2:17.] This is the prospect threatening us now.17LtMs, Ms 60, 1902, par. 21
“Then will the Lord be jealous for His land, and pity His people. Yea, the Lord will answer and say unto His people, Behold, I will send you corn, and wine, and oil, and ye shall be satisfied therewith: and I will no more make you a reproach among the heathen.” [Verses 18, 19.]Joel 2:23
Ye Shall Receive Power
A Special Bestowal of Spiritual Grace, November 4
YRP 317.3
But near the close of earth’s harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest “in the time of the latter rain.” In response, “the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain” (Zechariah 10:1). “He will cause to come down ... the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain” (Joel 2:23).From Trials to Triumph
The Early Rain and the Latter Rain
TT 30.4
But near the close of earth’s harvest a special bestowal is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring is the latter rain, and for this added power Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest “in the time of the latter rain.” In response, “the Lord shall ... give them showers of rain.” “He will cause to come down ... the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” Zechariah 10:1; Joel 2:23. But only those who constantly receive fresh supplies of grace will have ability to use that power. Daily they are improving the opportunities for service that lie within their reach, witnessing wherever they may be, in the home or in a public field of usefulness.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 86—“Go ... Teach All Nations”
HLv 551.1
So it may be now. Let the Word of God be preached. Let Christians put away their dissensions, give themselves to God for saving the lost. Let them in faith ask for the blessing, and it will come. The outpouring in apostolic days was the “former rain,” and glorious was the result, but the “latter rain” will be more abundant. See Joel 2:23.From Here to Forever
The Latter Rain and the Loud Cry
HF 372.1
The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. The “former rain” was given at the opening of the gospel to cause the upspringing of the precious seed; so the “latter rain” will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest. Hosea 6:3; Joel 2:23. The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are “the times of refreshing” to which the apostle Peter looked forward. Acts 3:19, 20.Homeward Bound
The Power of the Latter Rain, November 19
HB 352.4
But near the close of earth’s harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest “in the time of the latter rain.” In response, “the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain.” “He will cause to come down . . . the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain,” (Zechariah 10:1; Joel 2:23.)Radiant Religion
God Will Send the Latter Rain, July 5
RRe 188.1
Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month. Joel 2:23.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Source of All Spiritual Growth, November 3
JNN 324.4
But near the close of earth’s harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest “in the time of the latter rain.” In response, “the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain.” “He will cause to come down ... the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain” (Zechariah 10:1; Joel 2:23).The Three Angels’ Messages
Historical setting
3AM 134.2
The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the “former rain” was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the “latter rain” will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3. “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” Joel 2:23. “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:17, 21.Maranatha
Intolerance and Persecution, January 23
Mar 31.4
“Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God....” Joel 2:23. “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:17, 21.Maranatha
The Early and the Latter Rain, July 30
Mar 219.1
Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month. Joel 2:23.The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 5—The Gift of the Spirit
AA 55.1
But near the close of earth’s harvest, a special bestowal of spiritual grace is promised to prepare the church for the coming of the Son of man. This outpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling of the latter rain; and it is for this added power that Christians are to send their petitions to the Lord of the harvest “in the time of the latter rain.” In response, “the Lord shall make bright clouds, and give them showers of rain.” “He will cause to come down ... the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain,” Zechariah 10:1; Joel 2:23.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 86—Go Teach All Nations
DA 827.2
So it may be now. Instead of man’s speculations, let the word of God be preached. Let Christians put away their dissensions, and give themselves to God for the saving of the lost. Let them in faith ask for the blessing, and it will come. The outpouring of the Spirit in apostolic days was the “former rain,” and glorious was the result. But the “latter rain” will be more abundant. Joel 2:23.The Faith I Live By
The Early Rain of God’s Spirit, November 23
FLB 333.1
Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month. Joel 2:23.The Great Controversy
Chapter 38—The Final Warning
GC 611.2
The work will be similar to that of the Day of Pentecost. As the “former rain” was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the “latter rain” will be given at its close for the ripening of the harvest. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning; and He shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” Hosea 6:3. “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for He hath given you the former rain moderately, and He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” Joel 2:23. “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:17, 21.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 38—The Final Warning
GC88 611.1
The work will be similar to that of the day of Pentecost. As the “former rain” was given, in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the opening of the gospel, to cause the upspringing of the precious seed, so the “latter rain” will be given at its close, for the ripening of the harvest. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord; his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” [Hosea 6:3.] “Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God; for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” [Joel 2:23.] “In the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh.” “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” [Acts 2:17, 21.] The great work of the gospel is not to close with less manifestation of the power of God than marked its opening. The prophecies which were fulfilled in the outpouring of the former rain at the opening of the gospel, are again to be fulfilled in the latter rain at its close. Here are “the times of refreshing” to which the apostle Peter looked forward when he said, “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out [in the investigative Judgment], when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; and he shall send Jesus.” [Acts 3:19, 20.]The Upward Look
Get Ready for the Latter Rain, September 30
UL 287.1
Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the Lord your God: for he hath given you the former rain moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain in the first month. Joel 2:23.Joel 2:23-28
Last Day Events
Chapter 13—The Latter Rain
LDE 183.1
“He will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and the latter rain.” In the East the former rain falls at the sowing time. It is necessary in order that the seed may germinate. Under the influence of the fertilizing showers the tender shoot springs up. The latter rain, falling near the close of the season, ripens the grain and prepares it for the sickle. The Lord employs these operations of nature to represent the work of the Holy Spirit. [See Zechariah 10:1; Hosea 6:3; Joel 2:23, 28.]Joel 2:26
The Great Controversy
Chapter 19—Light Through Darkness
GC 350.1
Saith the Lord: “My people shall never be ashamed.” Joel 2:26. “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Psalm 30:5. When on His resurrection day these disciples met the Saviour, and their hearts burned within them as they listened to His words; when they looked upon the head and hands and feet that had been bruised for them; when, before His ascension, Jesus led them out as far as Bethany, and lifting up His hands in blessing, bade them, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel,” adding, “Lo, I am with you alway” (Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:20); when on the Day of Pentecost the promised Comforter descended and the power from on high was given and the souls of the believers thrilled with the conscious presence of their ascended Lord—then, even though, like His, their pathway led through sacrifice and martyrdom, would they have exchanged the ministry of the gospel of His grace, with the “crown of righteousness” to be received at His coming, for the glory of an earthly throne, which had been the hope of their earlier discipleship? He who is “able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think,” had granted them, with the fellowship of His sufferings, the communion of His joy—the joy of “bringing many sons unto glory,” joy unspeakable, an “eternal weight of glory,” to which, says Paul, “our light affliction, which is but for a moment,” is “not worthy to be compared.”The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 19—Light Through Darkness
GC88 350.1
Saith the Lord: “My people shall never be ashamed.” [Joel 2:26.] “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” [Psalm 30:5.] When on his resurrection day these disciples met the Saviour, and their hearts burned within them as they listened to his words; when they looked upon the head and hands and feet that had been bruised for them; when, before his ascension, Jesus led them out as far as Bethany, and, lifting up his hands in blessing, bade them, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel,” adding, “Lo, I am with you alway;” [Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:20.] when on the day of Pentecost the promised Comforter descended, and the power from on high was given, and the souls of the believers thrilled with the conscious presence of their ascended Lord,—then, even though, like his, their pathway led through sacrifice and martyrdom, would they have exchanged the ministry of the gospel of his grace, with the “crown of righteousness” to be received at his coming, for the glory of an earthly throne, which had been the hope of their earlier discipleship? He who is “able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think,” had granted them, with the fellowship of His sufferings, the communion of his joy,—the joy of “bringing many sons unto glory,” joy unspeakable, “an eternal weight of glory,” to which, says Paul, “our light affliction, which is but for a moment,” is “not worthy to be compared.”From Here to Forever
Despair to Assurance
HF 217.4
Saith the Lord: “My people shall never be ashamed.” “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Joel 2:26; Psalm 30:5. On His resurrection day these disciples met the Saviour, and their hearts burned within them as they listened to His words. Before His ascension, Jesus bade them, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel,” adding, “Lo, I am with you alway.” Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:20. On the Day of Pentecost the promised Comforter descended, and the souls of the believers thrilled with the conscious presence of their ascended Lord.Joel 2:28
A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White
Preface
ExV 2.4
“And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams, &C.” Acts 2:17; Joel 2:28.The Retirement Years
Helpful Bible Texts for Seniors
RY 188.5
And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.—Joel 2:28.From Here to Forever
Lifting the Veil on the Future
HF 11.3
In immediate connection with the scenes of the great day of God, the Lord by the prophet Joel has promised a special manifestation of His Spirit. Joel 2:28. This prophecy received a partial fulfillment in the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost; but it will reach its full accomplishment in the manifestation of divine grace which will attend the closing work of the gospel.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 85, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 85, 1886, par. 27
One intelligent-looking gentleman, a Dane, arose and made remarks like this: he said he had not found much good in Copenhagen. He had not visited Copenhagen for nine years, but he praised the Lord that he was permitted to be in this meeting. He had never heard such wonderful things before. He thought the time had come that is spoken of by the prophet, “I will pour out of My spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.” [Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 124, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 124, 1897, par. 26
In every age of the world the gift of the Holy Spirit is the great promise for the church. “Ask and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.] There are supplies for all. “I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh.” [Joel 2:28.] The promise of the Holy Spirit to accomplish the work is repeated in every soul that is converted to the truth. Every one newly added to the church is to be educated in regard to the work he is to do for the Master in winning souls to Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 49, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 49, 1908, par. 7
If this prophecy of Joel met a partial fulfilment in the days of the apostles, we are living in a time when it is to be even more evidently manifest to the people of God. He will so bestow His Spirit upon His people that they will become a light amid the moral darkness; and great light will be reflected in all parts of the world. O that our faith might be increased, that the Lord might work mightily with His people.Early Writings
Preface to First Edition of “Experience and Views”
EW vi.3
“And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: And your sons and daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams.” Acts 2:17 (CF. Joel 2:28.)The Faith I Live By
The Gifts of the Spirit, October 13
FLB 292.5
In immediate connection with the scenes of the great day of God, the Lord by the prophet Joel has promised a special manifestation of His Spirit. Joel 2:28. This prophecy received a partial fulfillment in the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost; but it will reach its full accomplishment in the manifestation of divine grace which will attend the closing work of the gospel....The Faith I Live By
A Prophet’s Voice in Our Time, October 14
FLB 293.1
And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. Joel 2:28.The Great Controversy
Introduction
GC ix.3
In immediate connection with the scenes of the great day of God, the Lord by the prophet Joel has promised a special manifestation of His Spirit. Joel 2:28. This prophecy received a partial fulfillment in the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost; but it will reach its full accomplishment in the manifestation of divine grace which will attend the closing work of the gospel.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Author’s Preface
GC88 f.3
In immediate connection with the scenes of the great day of God, the Lord by the prophet Joel has promised a special manifestation of his Spirit. Joel 2:28. This prophecy received a partial fulfillment in the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost; but it will reach its full accomplishment in the manifestation of divine grace which will attend the closing work of the gospel.Joel 2:28-29
Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White
Restored in the Last Days
CET 242.2
But the scriptures, while foretelling this dreadful apostasy, also plainly teach that just before the second coming of Christ, many will be rescued from the darkness of error and superstition. Once more the earth is to be lightened by the glory of God. The pure truths of the Bible are to shine forth. And in this time of heavenly illumination marking the approaching end of the age, the gifts of the Spirit are again to be manifest in the true church. “It shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: and on My servants and on My handmaidens I will pour out in those days of My Spirit; and they shall prophesy.” Acts 2:17, 18; Joel 2:28, 29.My Life Today
I Want That Power, February 27
ML 62.1
And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions. Joel 2:28, 29.From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 4—Pentecost: The Apostles Begin Their Work
TT 24.1
In answer to the accusation, Peter showed that this was in fulfillment of the prophecy of Joel. He said, “These are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: and on My servants and on My handmaidens I will pour out in those days of My Spirit; and they shall prophesy.” See Joel 2:28, 29.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 58, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 58, 1886, par. 12
In one of our meetings after I had spoken to the people in regard to the light that is shining in our world, a stranger arose to speak. He said he had not been to Copenhagen for years. He could not see anything good in Copenhagen, but he thanked the Lord he had come. He never listened to such things as he had heard in this meeting; it was wonderful. He believed that the time had come spoken of by Joel the prophet: “I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out My Spirit.” Joel 2:28, 29. He seemed to be deeply moved and expressed a desire to go with this people. He attended the Sabbath school and bore another testimony. It was something he had never seen anything like before; he must go home and tell his Baptist brethren all about the things he had seen and heard in these meetings.Joel 2:28-31
Patriarchs and Prophets
Introduction
PP 21.2
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit which was to attend the preaching of the gospel by the followers of Christ was announced by the prophet in these words: “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out My Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turnedinto darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come.” Joel 2:28-31.Joel 2:28-32
Early Writings
Introduction
EW 141.2
In this epistle the apostle introduces the subject of the second coming of the Lord. He then describes the state of the unbelieving world at that time, who are saying, “Peace and safety,” when the day of the Lord is about to burst upon them, and sudden destruction come upon them as a thief in the night. He then exhorts the church, in view of these things, to keep awake, to watch and be sober. Among the exhortations that follow are the words we have quoted, “Quench not the Spirit,” etc. Some may think that these three verses are completely detached from one another in sense; but they have a natural connection in the order in which they stand. The person who quenches the Spirit will be left to despise prophesyings, which are the legitimate fruit of the Spirit. “I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shallprophesy.” Joel 2:28. The expression, “Prove all things,” is limited to the subject of discourse, prophesyings, and we are to try the spirits by the tests which God has given us in His Word. Spiritual deceptions and false prophesyings abound at the present time; and doubtless this text has a special application here. But mark, the apostle does not say, Reject all things; but, Prove all things; Hold fast that which is good.EW 142.1
“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out My Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come. 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.” Joel 2:28-32.Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1
Spiritual Gifts
1SG 14.2
In this epistle the apostle introduces the subject of the second coming of the Lord. He then describes the state of the unbelieving world at that time---saying, “peace and safety”, when the day of the Lord is about to burst upon them, and sudden destruction come upon them as a thief in the night. He then exhorts the church, in view of these things, to keep awake, watch and be sober. Among the exhortations that follow are the words we have quoted, “quench not the Spirit,” &C. Some may think that these three verses are completely detached from each other in sense; but they have a natural connection in the order in which they stand. The person who quenches the Spirit will be left to despise prophesyings, which are the legitimate fruit of the Spirit, “I will pour out My Spirit, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy.” Joel 2:28. The expression, “prove all things,” is limited to the subject of discourse---prophesyings---and we are to try the spirits by the tests which he has given us in his word. Spiritual deceptions and false prophesyings abound at the present time; and doubtless this text has a special application here. But, mark, the apostle does not say, reject all things; but, prove all things; hold fast that which is good.1SG 14.3
Joel 2:28-32. “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids inthose days will I pour out My Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come. 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.”Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3
Spiritual Gifts
3SG 23.1
Joel 2:28-32, next claims our attention. “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions; and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the Lord come. 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.”3SG 25.1
We object to that stupid blindness which has the entire prophecy fulfilled on the day of Pentecost, and hence, the “last days” were past more than eighteen hundred years ago. We find in the record only the exercise of the gift of tongues. There is no account of dreams or visions on that day. Certainly the outsiders might well have been amazed on beholding old men asleep, dreaming in the midst of the excitement and uproar of the occasion. And well might they have supposed such to be stone drunk. Again, was the sun turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, on the day of Pentecost? And was that the great and terrible day of the Lord? No! No! The “last days” must embrace the last day. Should we say that the leaves of the New Testament were the last leaves of our Bible, we should speak correctly; yet they would embrace the last leaf. It would be equally correct to call the book of Revelation, or the two last leaves of the Bible, the last leaves. But in each case, the last leaves embrace the very last leaf. So with the last days. If we call the whole Christian age, or the last century, or the last thirty years, the last days, in each case the last days must embrace thevery last day. With this view of the subject we read with delight the prophetic description, Joel 2:28-32, of the termination of the present age with gracious blessings upon the people of God. The Christian age will terminate with glory to the righteous; yet a severe conflict with the dragon host is just ahead.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 144, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 144, 1897, par. 10
God declares through His prophet Joel, “It shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions; and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my Spirit. And I will show wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness and the moon into blood, before the great and terrible day of the Lord comes. 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.” [Joel 2:28-32.]Joel 2:31
Maranatha
Signs in the Heavens, May 22
Mar 150.1
The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the Lord come. Joel 2:31.The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1
Ms 5, 1851
I will now write you1
The last paragraph of the letter identifies “you” as “Bro. Rhodes.”
EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
Joel 2:1
In Heavenly Places
Crisis of the Ages, December 1
HP 342.1
Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand. Joel 2:1.Maranatha
Sound an Alarm! April 8
Mar 106.1
Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the Lord cometh, for it is nigh at hand. Joel 2:1.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 181, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 181, 1897, par. 9
There is a great need of setting things in order. Ministers are becoming discouraged, but their piety has not been of the right quality. A great work needs to be done that has been left undone in both the publishing centers. In the place of talking about hard times, dearth of means, and large expenses, let the watchmen on the walls of Zion, the editors of our periodicals, sound an alarm in all “My holy mountain.” [Joel 2:1.] Let them deny themselves and take up the cross and follow Jesus. Let there be no more complaints of hard times when families and individuals indulge themselves in dress, in eating, in drinking, in obtaining all the enjoyable things that they desire. Let self-denial come in. If times are hard, bring the living expenses to the situation, and do not think they can make the times better by having fewer ministers to support, and using the means the Lord has consecrated for a special purpose to defray common expenses which do not mean souls. The tithe money is God’s. A system of robbery has been going on for years, and men are spiritually blind and do not discern that they are drying up the resources to keep ministers in the field. And what else can the young men do but to unite with the medical missionary workers?