MALACHI at a glance

PURPOSE: This prophet confronted the Jewish people of the southern kingdom regarding their sins and implored them all to restore their relationship with God.

AUTHOR: The prophet Malachi, whose name means “my messenger”. He served as a prophet to Judah around 430 BC. Malachi was the last of the OT prophets.

THE SETTING: Malachi, Haggai & Zechariah were postexilic prophets to Judah. Both Haggai & Zechariah took the people to task for their failure to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. Malachi took on the same people for their neglect of the Temple and their false and profane worship practices.

A KEY VERSE: “The day of judgment is coming, burning like a furnace...But for you who fear my name, the Sun of Righteousness will rise with healing in his wings. And you will go free, leaping with joy like calves let out to pasture.” _{[Malachi 4:1-2]}

SPECIAL LITERARY STYLE: “Malachi’s literary style employs a dramatic use of questions asked by God and his people.” _{[e.g. - Malachi 3:7-8]} 

 

THE BLUEPRINT:

 

1) The Sinful Priests _{(Malachi 1:1-2:9)}

2) The Sinful People _{(Malachi 2:10-3:15)}

3) The Faithful Few _{(Malachi 3:16-4:6)}

 

            “Malachi rebuked the people & the priests for neglecting the worship of God and failing to live according to God’s will. The priests were corrupt; therefore, how could they lead the people? They had become stumbling blocks instead of spiritual leaders. The men were divorcing their wives and marrying pagan women; how could they have godly children? Their relationship with God had become unimportant... we need to take stock of ourselves by setting aside our sinful habits, putting the Lord first & giving God our very best every day.” _{[TLPSB - P.1970]}            “Hypocrisy, neglecting God, and careless living have devastating consequences. Serving & worshiping God must be the primary focus of our life, both now and in eternity.” _{[TLPSB - P.1970]}

                  Don’t allow your relationship with the Lord to be severed due to your sin. Remain faithful to God regardless of your circumstances. God is there to love, lead, and guide you wherever you need to go in his name. 

 

Up next are the Mega-Themes found in this book. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.

 

In His name & for His glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.