The references to wonders in heaven and signs on earth are reminders of the time when God delivered Israel from Egypt. Joel’s reference to these signs and Peter’s quotation of them are an announcement of God’s great deliverance of all people through Christ’s saving work. At the same time Joel’s prophecy speaks of Christ’s second coming, his coming in judgment. Jesus spoke of it in similar language: “When you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be frightened. These things must happen first, but the