Joel, Micah, and Habakkuk – these ancient prophets hold great relevance for the church and the world at the turn of the millennium. All three emphasize the vital importance of listening to what God has to say in times of disaster, disobedience, and destruction. Joel, facing the desolation of national disaster, anticipates a future outpouring of God’s Spirit. Micah declares that God’s punishment for wickedness is certain and complete, but that He will preserve a faithful remnant. Faced with the imminent destruction of the city, the land, and the people, Habakkuk is sure that God’s hidden purposes are being fulfilled.
The prophets presented themselves before the people, powerfully applying God's message. David Prior believes that, like them, the Church today must bring its values to all areas of society, and not the other way around. That is the only stance that will bring hope instead of despair to a society under God’s judgment.
