2:2 in the latter days. This reference to “the latter days” is indefinite and may include a lengthy process of fulfillment, including the reigns of Hezekiah and Josiah, the period of restoration after the Exile, the First Advent of our Lord, the present age, and the glorious consummation (Jer. 23:20; 30:24; Ezek. 38:8, 16; Hos. 3:5). The term designates a new epoch that for the prophet lies in the hidden future. The new epoch alters history in every dimension and is the goal toward which events are striving. The apostle Peter relates this time to the new age begun at Pentecost by using the phrase for an introduction to his citation of Joel 2:28–32 (Acts 2:17).

mountain. The prophet spoke of the temple mount as a metaphor for the Lord’s kingdom that will be exalted above all other kingdoms (cf. 11:9; 65:25; 66:20). Mount Zion and the temple on it were symbols of heaven and the heavenly sanctuary (Heb. 9:24). These earthly representations have passed away (Heb. 8:13); through the priesthood of the ascended Lord, the church comes directly to the heavenly reality (Heb. 12:22–24).

highest of the mountains. Pagans worshiped their gods at mountain shrines. Israel’s God, who is worshiped on Mount Zion, will establish Himself in the eyes of all races and nations as the only true and living God, even as He is worshiped today.