Why study the Prophets? What have you personally learned in your studies? Why study Joel? BTE 601-1-1

1. Why study the Prophets?
Prophecy is history written in advance. Fulfillment of prophecy is proof positive that the Bible is the inspired Word of God. There are many works of literature labeled as holy books plus books of prophecy, however, any prophecies have either remained unfulfilled or in the case of Nostradamus are so vague they could be interpreted several ways. The apostle Peter walked in the dust of the Rabbi for three years and cited prophecy as being a better witness. He wrote in 2 Peter 1:19-21, “We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.”
2. What have you personally learned in your studies?
For so many years I've had a problem with the fact that Jesus had to die on the cross for our sins. It just astounded me how cruel and effective the Roman soldiers were in torturing Jesus, but keeping Him alive enough to die on the cross. Through my studies, I finally am able to be at peace with the knowledge that his sacrifice was necessary for His gift of salvation to be available and for the fulfillment of scripture.
3. Why study Joel?
According to Dr. Stolebarger the Book of Joel “records Israel's place in God's program.” It’s often been said that Israel is like a canary in the mine. She is a harbinger of things to come. The Jews have survived attempts to totally annihilate them, being dispersed throughout the world, being blamed for nearly every evil in the world and more. I've heard Hal Lindsey state when asked for proof of the validity of the Bible, "the Jewish race."
I’m still trying to comprehend the book of Joel; however, to quote Dr. Stolebarger, “Joel also has a lot to say about the Gentile nations and their collision course to Armageddon.” It would seem, given our present administration. We in the United States are rushing headlong into judgment.
Then there is Two State Peace Plan that is being forced upon Israel today. Our country has been trying for years to facilitate the establishment of two states with Israel and the Palestinians living next to each other in peace. It is been said that if the Muslims would lay down their arms there would be peace. However, if Israelis would lay down their arms, there would no longer be an Israel. It is very foolish to try to force Israel to give up land promised to Abraham, then Isaac, then Jacob by God!