What is the significance of the 'former rain' and 'latter rain' in the Bible?

The terms 'former rain' and 'latter rain' found in Joel 2:23 represent God's timely provision of His word and the gospel. The 'former rain' refers to the early revelations pointing to Christ, while the 'latter rain' signifies the fullness of His revelation in the gospel after Christ's coming. This symbolism illustrates how God nurtures His garden, the Church, with His words throughout history. The ‘rain’ signifies God’s grace raining down upon His people, resulting in spiritual growth and harvest as believers come to know Christ and produce fruit for His kingdom.