Joel 2:28 And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy… I. THE ANIMATING PREDICTION. Note the object promised, it was the Spirit. The term Spirit is used to denote His miraculous and gracious influences. The Spirit is a person. The influences of the Spirit may be considered as miraculous and as common. The former were peculiar to the apostolic age, the latter must be regarded as the privilege of believers in every period of time. Observe the persons who shall receive the Spirit. It will be "poured out upon all flesh." This embraces the whole human race. Observe the season when this prediction will be verified. The "last days," i.e., this entire present dispensation, the final economy of mercy to the world. II. THE GLORIOUS EFFECTS CONNECTED WITH THE DISPENSATION OF THE SPIRIT. Notice the blessings of the Spirit, as seen in the apostles — they were qualified by it for their work. And as it respects the revival of religion, the Gospel is attended with extraordinary success. III. THE MEANS BY WHICH THIS DIVINE INFLUENCE MAY BE MORE EMINENTLY ENJOYED BY US IN THE PRESENT DAY. 1. By a more decided and elevated tone of piety in the members of our churches. 2. By consecrating much time to devotion. 3. By a distinguished zeal in the promotion of those institutions which advance Immanuel's cause. 4. By increasing harmony and affection among the disciples of Christ. Love to the brethren is the peculiar excellence of Christianity, the badge of discipleship, and the glory of religion. (W. Yates.) Parallel Verses KJV: 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: |
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