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JoelOld TestamentPastor Joe DuCharme

Judgement is Coming, But Mercy is Closer

Pastor Joe DuCharme teaches on Joel 2:1-14. This passage warns of coming judgment as a merciful wake-up call, revealing that God’s ultimate purpose is not destruction but repentance, restoration, and the invitation to return to His gracious and steadfast love.

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February 22, 2026
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A church sermon graphic featuring a man in a black shirt speaking at a wooden podium on the right side. Large text on the left reads, “Judgement Is Coming But Mercy Is Closer – Joel 2:1–14.” A silhouette of a person praying appears in the background, along with the logo and name “Calvary Chapel The Rock” at the bottom.

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Sermon Notes

Joel 2:1-14

The Sounding of The Alarm (Joel 2:1–2)

God had been warning His people. God always warns before He judges, His warnings are acts of mercy.

The Coming Army and Coming Reckoning (Joel 2:3–11)

Joel describes an unstoppable army sweeping across the land. This passage points to a near fulfillment and a future fulfillment.

The Purpose of Judgment

God’s warnings are not meant to destroy but to awaken. Like the locust plague in chapter 1, hardship is sometimes allowed to bring repentance. Instead of asking only “Why is this happening?” The better question is, “What is God teaching me?”

The Unexpected Invitation (Joel 2:12–13a)

“Yet even now… return to Me with all your heart.” External religion is insufficient. God desires inward transformation.

The Revelation of God’s Character (Joel 2:13b–14)

Joel reminds the people they can return to God because:

  • He is gracious
  • He is merciful
  • He is slow to anger
  • He is abounding in steadfast love

Practical Takeaways

God holds back judgment with one hand while extending mercy with the other. The cross proves both His justice and His love. No one is too far gone. However far you have wandered, when you turn, you will find the Father running toward you. Judgment may be coming, but mercy is closer.

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