Similar to Hosea, a main theme of Joel is that the house of Israel had become full of wickedness and would receive terrible judgements. This message is similar to that of some other prophets like Isaiah, Jonah and Amos. Wickedness brings about destruction and righteous and repentance will bring about joy and happiness. Joel was one of many prophets whose prophecies were dual prophesies. They had immediate relevance and they would have relevance at a later date, in many instances this later date is the latter days, or last days.
If you read Joseph Smith-History 1:41 you'll see that the angel Moroni quoted from Joel the night he visited Joseph in his room. He said that the prophecies would shortly be fulfilled. Many have already begun to be fulfilled.
The Book of Joel also gives some great insights into the Battle of Armageddon. The book is literally packed with all sorts of good stuff.
It is widely believed that Joel's ministry took place during the reign of King Joash in Judah. Unlike Hosea, Joel was sending a warning voice to the people of Judah in the Southern Kingdom.
Along with the wickedness condemned and judgements foretold, Joel also preached about repentance and salvation. Like all prophets, Joel called upon everyone to repent and come unto the Lord.
We also see that Joel does not refer to the Northern Kingdom at all. It's possible that at this time it technically does not exist anymore, meaning they've been invaded and taken captive.
At this time it also appears that Jerusalem still had walls and that temple worship was still being carried out, so it seems to have taken place either before the siege or after it has been restored.
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