Whedon's Commentary on the Bible - Joel 2:28-32
Spiritual gifts to be bestowed in a more distant future, Joel 2:28-32 (Hebrew chap. 3). This section takes us to a more distant future; how far is not stated. In addition to the temporal blessings promised for the immediate future (Joel 2:19-27), higher spiritual blessings are awaiting the people. The Spirit will be poured out upon them, so that the spiritual perception of all will be clarified and intensified (28, 29); and being in a new fellowship with Jehovah they have nothing more to fear.... read more
Whedon's Commentary on the Bible - Joel 2:28
28. Afterward After the realization of the temporal prosperity. Not the expression used by other prophets (Isaiah 2:2; Micah 4:1). Joel seems to point to a date nearer than that suggested by the other expression, but he also leaves the exact time indefinite. I will pour out “Shaphakh does not mean merely to give in drops, but to pour out in great abundance” (Calvin). My spirit The spirit is the life principle in man, the invisible power to which all external actions must be traced.... read more