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Prophet Malachi prophesized God’s Word correctly,

Many called have presented God’s message incorrectly,

Faith is preaching God’s truth in love and directly,

Leading people to God, allowing His Word to work immensely.

Prophet Malachi urged people to repent their transgressions,

He told them to repent of all their actions, words and evil intentions,

God delights in mercy and forgives, listening to your confessions,

We are assured of forgiveness; Christ is making for us intercessions.

Malachi rebuked all forms of corruption and idolatry,

He believed in God alone, shunned iconolatry and hagiolatry,

God’s abundant love and grace sets our spirits free,

Like Malachi, in God’s embrace, we find serenity.

Malachi emphasized God’s love and faithfulness,

He preached on tithing, keeping away from all unfaithfulness,

He told the Israelites to turn away from sin and be free from all shamefulness,

Malachi prophesied faithfully; thus, to God, he showed gratefulness.

Hebrews 11:32-35 (KJV) – “³² And what shall I more say? For the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: ³³ Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions. ³⁴ Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. ³⁵ Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection.”

The name “Malachi” means “My messenger” in Hebrew, reflecting his role as a messenger of God. Malachi wrote the Book of Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament in the Bible.

Malachi likely prophesied around the late 5th century BC, when the Jewish people had returned from the Babylonian exile and were rebuilding the city of Jerusalem and the Second Temple. This period was a time of political and social upheaval as the Jewish community sought to reestablish itself in the Promised Land. Despite these circumstances, there was a moral and religious decline among the people.

The historical context of Malachi’s prophecies is characterized by spiritual apathy and religious corruption. The people had begun to compromise their faith and religious practices, offering blemished sacrifices and withholding tithes. There were issues with the priesthood and a general indifference toward God’s commandments.

Malachi’s role as a prophet during this time was to convey God’s messages, often involving rebuke and correction. He challenged the religious leaders and the people to return to genuine worship, faithfulness, and obedience to God’s covenant.

In addition to addressing the issues of his time, Malachi also provided Messianic prophecies. He foretold the coming of a messenger who would prepare the way for the Lord (Malachi 3:1). This Messianic prophecy laid the foundation for the expectation of the arrival of the Messiah, which is later fulfilled in the New Testament with the ministry of John the Baptist and the coming of Jesus Christ.

Despite the stern messages of rebuke, the Book of Malachi also contains messages of hope and restoration. God’s love and faithfulness are emphasized, and the people are encouraged to return to Him sincerely. Malachi assures them that God will bless them if they return to obedient worship.

Much is not mentioned about Prophet Malachi in the Bible. However, he did various actions that showed he had faith in God.

These are some faithful actions that Prophet Malachi did, which are recorded in the Bible:

Prophesying God’s Word

Malachi 3:1 (KJV) – “Behold, I will send My messenger, and he shall prepare the way before Me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to His temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts.”

Prophet Malachi was faithful in prophesying God’s Word. God has sent messengers who have rejected His call. God has sent messengers who have twisted His Word and did not prophesy precisely what God had sent them. Malachi prophesied exactly what God had sent him, and that is why the book of Malachi is a blessing to us to this day.

Malachi 1:4-5 (KJV) – “⁴ Whereas Edom saith, We are impoverished, but we will return and build the desolate places; thus saith the Lord of hosts, They shall build, but I will throw down; and they shall call them, The border of wickedness, and, The people against whom the Lord hath indignation forever. ⁵ And your eyes shall see, and ye shall say, The Lord will be magnified from the border of Israel.”

When we read the text in Malachi 3:1, we see that he prophesied about the coming of Jesus, which is good news because Jesus came to save us from sin. Malachi not only prophesied good news which people wanted to hear, but he also prophesied what people would refer to as bad news.

He prophesied about the curse that had befallen Edom and the destruction that would face it. He did that fearlessly. It is a difficult task to tell people what they do not want to hear; that is why Jonah fled when God sent him to warn the people of Nineveh.

Preaching truth comes with the risk of losing one’s life. Malachi esteemed the gospel higher than his life. When God sends a prophet to tell you of the negative things that you are going to encounter, He does not want you to lose hope. He tells you that as a warning so that you can repent your transgressions.

Malachi 3:16-18 (KJV) – “¹⁶ Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name. ¹⁷ And they shall be Mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. ¹⁸ Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth Him not.”

Malachi not only prophesied about the first coming of Jesus, but also prophesied about the second coming of Jesus. The first coming of Jesus was meant to save humanity, and whoever heeded His call and believed in Him would inherit eternal life (John 3:16). The second coming of Jesus will mark the judgement day. Those who failed to believe in Jesus and hard-heartedly continued sinning would be doomed for eternity.

Malachi 4:1-4 (KJV) – “¹ For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. ² But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in His wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall. ³ And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet in the day that I shall do this, saith the Lord of hosts. ⁴ Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all Israel, with the statutes and judgments.”

Malachi 4:1-4 offers a powerful message about the future, where a day of reckoning is described, and it contrasts the fate of the wicked with the destiny of those who revere the Lord’s name. It also emphasizes the importance of remembering and adhering to the law of Moses.

The passage begins with a vivid portrayal of a day to come, described as a day that “shall burn as an oven.” This metaphorical language paints a picture of a day of intense heat and burning. It signifies a day of reckoning when the deeds of humanity will be laid bare.

The text suggests that day would be a time of divine judgment, where all the proud and wicked would be like “stubble.” Stubble is the residue left after a field has been harvested, and it is highly flammable, thus emphasizing the idea of utter destruction. The passage asserts that on this day, the Lord of hosts will burn up the wicked completely, leaving them “neither root nor branch.”

Amidst the fiery imagery of judgment, Malachi 4:2 provides a glimmer of hope for those who fear the name of the Lord. It speaks of the “Sun of righteousness” rising with healing in His wings. This phrase is a powerful symbol of spiritual renewal and restoration. The Sun of righteousness represents God’s justice and mercy. The idea of “healing in His wings” suggests that God’s righteousness will bring about restoration and renewal for those who revere Him.

The metaphor of people growing “as calves of the stall” indicates a sense of nourishment and growth. It implies that those who fear the Lord will thrive and flourish in the presence of divine righteousness. This verse contrasts sharply with the fate of the wicked, who will be reduced to ashes.

Malachi 4:3 further reinforces the theme of divine justice and the ultimate triumph of the righteous. It states that the righteous will “tread down the wicked,” and the wicked will be “ashes under the soles of your feet.” This imagery portrays a day when the righteous will be exalted, and the wicked will be humbled, illustrating the biblical principle of retribution, where the wicked reap what they sow.

Malachi 4:4 gives a reminder to “remember ye the law of Moses.” This instruction emphasizes the enduring significance of God’s commandments, as given to Moses at Horeb for all of Israel. The Law includes the statutes and judgments that governed the lives of the Israelites and guided their relationship with God.

By stressing the importance of remembering and adhering to this Law, the passage underscores the idea that faithfulness to God’s commandments is a crucial aspect of honouring the Lord’s name and finding favour in His sight.

Calling for Repentance

Malachi 2:2-3 (KJV) – “² If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto My name, saith the Lord of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings: yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart. ³ Behold, I will corrupt your seed, and spread dung upon your faces, even the dung of your solemn feasts; and one shall take you away with it.”

God does not delight in those who disobey Him. A sure curse will be sent to those who deliberately fail to glorify God’s name. In Acts 12, an angel of the Lord killed Herod after Herod didn’t glorify God’s name when he gave a powerful speech in that the people said he spoke like a god. Deuteronomy 28:15-68 mentions the various curses encountered by the people who disobey God. In Malachi 2:3, God rebukes their evil and tells them He will corrupt their seed. When one does something evil, they bring curses on their children and every aspect of their lives.

Malachi 3:7 (KJV) – “⁷ Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from Mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto MMe, and I will return unto you, saith the Lord of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return?”

All hope is not lost for the disobedient and rebellious people. God tells them to return to Him, and He will return to them. He is telling them that they have a chance to change their ways and do what is right.

As long as one is alive, they can change their practices and follow the right way, which is Jesus. It does not matter the magnitude of sin that one has done. If they confess it, God is faithful and just to forgive them (1 John 1:9).

God reminds them of how they have been indulging in sin for a long time by telling them that even from the days of their fathers, they have been going away from His ordinances. Some of them might have thought that because they had been indulging in sin for a long time, they stood no chance to be forgiven. They might have lost hope in God. God never loses hope in us. He gives them a simple solution, “return to Me, and I will return to you.”

“Oh, how precious was this promise, as it was shown to me in vision! “I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” Oh, the love, the wondrous love of God! After all our lukewarmness and sins He says, “Return unto me, and I will return unto thee, and will heal all thy backslidings.” … Some, I saw, would gladly return. Others will not let this message to the Laodicean church have its weight upon them. They will glide along, much after the same manner as before, and will be spewed out of the mouth of the Lord. Those only who zealously repent will have favor with God…. Jesus died to make a way of escape for us, that we might overcome every evil temper, every sin, every temptation, and sit down at last with Him.” – With God at Dawn, Page 91, Ellen G. White.

Jeremiah 15:19-21 (KJV) – “¹⁹ Therefore thus saith the Lord, If thou return, then will I bring thee again, and thou shalt stand before Me: and if thou take forth the precious from the vile, thou shalt be as My mouth: let them return unto thee; but return not thou unto them. ²⁰ And I will make thee unto this people a fenced brasen wall: and they shall fight against thee, but they shall not prevail against thee: for I am with thee to save thee and to deliver thee, saith the Lord. ²¹ And I will deliver thee out of the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem thee out of the hand of the terrible.”

Jeremiah 15:19 begins with the words, “Therefore thus saith the Lord, If thou return, then will I bring thee again, and thou shalt stand before Me.” This verse underscores the pivotal concept of repentance and turning back to God. It reveals the essential condition for experiencing the restoration of one’s divine relationship. God’s desire for Jeremiah is straightforward: return to Him, and He will restore their communion.

Furthermore, the verse encourages a separation of the precious from the vile. This separation represents the moral and spiritual discernment that God expects from Jeremiah. To be “as My mouth” implies that Jeremiah should speak the words of God faithfully and without compromise. In essence, God urges Jeremiah to remain untainted by the world’s impurities and to represent Him with unwavering fidelity.

Jeremiah 15:20 introduces the metaphor of a “fenced brasen wall.” This metaphor paints a vivid picture of God’s divine protection surrounding Jeremiah. It signifies strength, fortification, and security. The verse acknowledges that Jeremiah’s mission will not be without challenges; he will face opposition and resistance, symbolized by the people fighting against him. However, the promise remains that they “shall not prevail against thee,” for God is with Jeremiah to save and deliver him.

This verse encapsulates a broader message that extends beyond Jeremiah’s personal experience. It illustrates God’s commitment to His servants, assuring them of His presence amid adversity. The metaphor of the “fenced brazen wall” teaches us that God’s protection and strength are unwavering, providing a shield against the storms of life.

Jeremiah 15:21 culminates in the promise of deliverance from the hand of the wicked and redemption from the hand of the terrible. This verse highlights God’s role as the ultimate protector and redeemer. It serves as a reminder that no force, no matter how wicked or formidable, can thwart God’s plans for His chosen ones.

The theme of deliverance runs throughout the Bible, and Jeremiah 15:21 reaffirms this timeless truth. It reassures us that, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges, God is the ultimate source of rescue and redemption.

Jeremiah 15:19-21 is a poignant expression of God’s unwavering commitment to His chosen servant and, by extension, to all those who faithfully serve Him. It conveys the importance of repentance, moral discernment, divine protection, and ultimate deliverance.

This passage from the book of Jeremiah is not confined to its historical context but carries timeless lessons for all believers. It reminds us of the need to return to God, to remain untainted by the impurities of the world, and to trust in His unyielding protection and redeeming power. Jeremiah 15:19-21 serves as a testament to the enduring nature of God’s promises and His unfailing presence in the lives of those who stand as His faithful servants.

Luke 15:20 (KJV) – ^“And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.”

When the prodigal son returned home, and his father saw him from a distance, he was over-excited to see him. His father did not wait for him to reach where he was. He ran to meet the son where he was. The Bible says, “When he was yet a great way off.” This means that the father went a longer distance to meet the son than the son did. God does the greater work for us than we do.

God acts the same way. He does not wait for us to reach where He is. He is willing to come where we are when He sees that we have intentionally chosen to go where He is.

Luke 15:21-23 (KJV) – “²¹ And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. ²² But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: ²³ And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry.”

“Repentance includes sorrow for sin and a turning away from it. We shall not renounce sin unless we see its sinfulness; until we turn away from it in heart, there will be no real change in the life.” – Steps to Christ, Page 23.2, Ellen G. White.

“There are many who fail to understand the true nature of repentance. Multitudes sorrow that they have sinned and even make an outward reformation because they fear that their wrongdoing will bring suffering upon themselves. But this is not repentance in the Bible sense. They lament the suffering rather than the sin. Such was the grief of Esau when he saw that the birthright was lost to him forever. Balaam, terrified by the angel standing in his pathway with drawn sword, acknowledged his guilt lest he should lose his life; but there was no genuine repentance for sin, no conversion of purpose, no abhorrence of evil. Judas Iscariot, after betraying his Lord, exclaimed, “I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood.” Matthew 27:4” – Steps to Christ, Page 23.3, Ellen G. White.

“The confession was forced from his guilty soul by an awful sense of condemnation and a fearful looking for of judgment. The consequences that were to result to him filled him with terror, but there was no deep, heartbreaking grief in his soul, that he had betrayed the spotless Son of God and denied the Holy One of Israel. Pharaoh, when suffering under the judgments of God, acknowledged his sin in order to escape further punishment, but returned to his defiance of Heaven as soon as the plagues were stayed. These all lamented the results of sin, but did not sorrow for the sin itself.” – Steps to Christ, Page 24.1, Ellen G. White.

“But when the heart yields to the influence of the Spirit of God, the conscience will be quickened, and the sinner will discern something of the depth and sacredness of God’s holy Law, the foundation of His government in heaven and on earth. The “Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world,” illumines the secret chambers of the soul, and the hidden things of darkness are made manifest. John 1:9. Conviction takes hold upon the mind and heart. The sinner has a sense of the righteousness of Jehovah and feels the terror of appearing, in his own guilt and uncleanness, before the Searcher of hearts. He sees the love of God, the beauty of holiness, the joy of purity; he longs to be cleansed and to be restored to communion with Heaven.” – Steps to Christ, Page 24.2, Ellen G. White.

The prodigal son’s dad did not torment him when the son returned to him. He ordered the servants to bring the best robe and put a ring on his hand and shoes on his feet.

When we return to God and completely abandon our old ways of sin, God returns to us, giving us the best that He has in store for us. He does not torture us for the sins that we had committed before. Instead, He gives us the best that we are unworthy to have. This is true love. This is God’s love.

Rebuking Corruption and Idolatry

Malachi 1:6-8 (KJV) – “⁶ A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master: if then I be a father, where is Mine honour? And if I be a master, where is My fear? Saith the Lord of hosts unto you, O priests, that despise My name. And ye say, Wherein have we despised Thy name? ⁷ Ye offer polluted bread upon Mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the Lord is contemptible. ⁸ And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, is it not evil? And if ye offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? Offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? Saith the Lord of hosts.”

Malachi 1:6-8 delivers a stern rebuke from the Lord of hosts to the priests of the time. In these verses, God, speaking through the prophet Malachi, draws a poignant analogy between the reverence and honor given to earthly fathers and masters and the respect that should be offered to Him, the divine Father and Master of all creation.

God questions the lack of honor and fear shown by the priests tasked with serving as intermediaries between the people and the Divine. The tone of these verses conveys a sense of disappointment and incredulity at the priests’ failure to give the proper respect and reverence to God.

The specific charges against the priests are twofold: First, they are accused of offering polluted or defiled sacrifices on God’s altar. These offerings were tainted and unworthy of the divine. The priests, however, respond with a sense of indifference and ask, “Wherein have we despised Thy name?” Their apparent lack of awareness or acknowledgment of their wrongdoing adds to the severity of their neglect.

Second, the priests are accused of offering blemished and unacceptable animals for sacrifice. God questions the morality of such offerings, stating that if they were to present such sacrifices to a human governor, the governor would not be pleased or accept their offerings. In essence, God emphasizes that the same standards of respect and honor that apply to human authorities should apply to Him as the ultimate authority.

Malachi 1:6-8 is a powerful reminder of the importance of genuine reverence, honor, and purity in one’s worship and service to God. They highlight the principle that God deserves the best and most sincere offerings from His people and that half-hearted or defiled sacrifices are unacceptable in His sight. The message here encourages us to approach our relationship with God with humility, respect, and a genuine desire to honor Him in all we do.

Malachi rebuked corruption from upwards going downwards. He did not spare the priests because they were high in rank. In our justice systems today, particularly in third-world countries, petty offenders are punished severely while individuals of high status, like top corrupt government officials, are spared. The reason is that people of high status are feared.

Romans 2:11 (KJV) – “For there is no respect of persons with God.” God’s wrath spares no one. He is the king of kings, and no one is above Him. God wants the servants He has called to preach truth to spare no one and no sin.

By faith, Malachi rebuked the profane things that the priests did. He told them God was angry with them for offering Him polluted bread and unworthy sacrifices. We should not fear to speak the truth because we fear someone’s high position in society. This is because that may be the truth that they need most. John the Baptist was killed for telling Herod the truth (Matthew 14:1-12).

Stephen was martyred for speaking the truth (Acts 7:54-60). Daniel was exalted by King Nebuchadnezzar for speaking the truth (Daniel 2:48). We do not know of the blessings that God has in store for us for telling the truth. Therefore, let us not be hesitant to preach it.

Malachi 2:8-9 (KJV) – “⁸ But ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at the Law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith the Lord of hosts. ⁹ Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept My ways, but have been partial in the Law.”

Malachi 2:8-9 delivers a solemn message regarding the conduct of the priests of that time. In these verses, God, speaking through the prophet Malachi, condemns the priests for departing from the path of righteousness and causing many to stumble in their adherence to God’s Law. The gravity of their actions is emphasized when God declares that they have corrupted the covenant of Levi, which represents a breach of the sacred trust placed upon them.

The priests had gone astray from God’s commandments. Thus, they caused many who were under their influence to stumble. As a leader, you should be careful about your impact on people, especially if you are a spiritual leader. You should keep in mind that most of your followers don’t read the Bible. Therefore, some are depending on you to tell them what to do and to show them the best example.

I have heard various people justify their actions because the pastors do the same thing. Some cook and buy food on the Sabbath because they have seen their church pastor and elders doing so. Some sin because of being given misleading advice by their spiritual leaders.

God lowered the priests because they treated His Word with contempt for their sinful actions and influence. If you exalt God’s Word by doing what It says, God will exalt you. God did not want the priests to be confused because God is not an author of confusion (1 Corinthians 14:33). Therefore, He sent Malachi to tell them what was wrong with them and how they could correct it.

Malachi 2:8-9 underscores the vital importance of leaders, especially spiritual leaders, upholding the highest standards of moral conduct and fidelity to God’s commandments. Their actions and influence have a profound impact on those who follow them.

God’s response to the priests’ transgressions is a cautionary tale, highlighting the need for leaders to exemplify their commitment to God’s ways. It is a reminder that our actions as leaders have a far-reaching impact, and we should strive to exalt God’s Word by living in accordance with its principles and guiding others to do the same.

Malachi 2:10-12 (KJV) – “¹⁰ Have we not all one Father? Hath not one God created us? Why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of our fathers? ¹¹ Judah hath dealt treacherously, and an abomination is committed in Israel and in Jerusalem; for Judah hath profaned the holiness of the Lord which He loved, and hath married the daughter of a strange god. ¹² The Lord will cut off the man that doeth this, the master and the scholar, out of the tabernacles of Jacob, and him that offereth an offering unto the Lord of hosts.”

Deuteronomy 6:4-5 (KJV) – “⁴ Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord: ⁵ And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.”

There is only one God, and we are all members of one body, the body of Christ. As members of Christ’s body, we should work together, conducting our various functions in unison. The Israelites believed in one God but dealt treacherously against their fellow men. They went ahead to be unequally tied in marriage with unbelievers who worshipped strange gods.

2 Corinthians 6:14-17 (KJV) – “¹⁴ Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? ¹⁵ And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? ¹⁶ And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. ¹⁷ Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.”

Being unequally yoked with a person with whom you don’t share the same beliefs is like taking someone else’s foot or hand and putting it on your body. It may function, but it won’t work correctly like your own hand. You will be feeling that something is missing. God told Malachi the root cause that caused many of their problems, and that was being unequally yoked.

“In seeking to strengthen his relations with the powerful kingdom lying to the southward of Israel, Solomon ventured upon forbidden ground. Satan knew the results that would attend obedience; and during the earlier years of Solomon’s reign—years glorious because of the wisdom, the beneficence, and the uprightness of the king—he sought to bring in influences that would insidiously undermine Solomon’s loyalty to principle and cause him to separate from God. That the enemy was successful in this effort, we know from the record: “Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh’s daughter, and brought her into the City of David.” 1 Kings 3:1.” – Prophets and Kings, Page 53.1, Ellen G. White.

“From a human point of view, this marriage, though contrary to the teachings of God’s Law, seemed to prove a blessing; for Solomon’s heathen wife was converted and united with him in the worship of the true God. Furthermore, Pharaoh rendered signal service to Israel by taking Gezer, slaying “the Canaanites that dwelt in the city,” and giving it “for a present unto his daughter, Solomon’s wife.” 1 Kings 9:16. This city Solomon rebuilt and thus apparently greatly strengthened his kingdom along the Mediterranean seacoast. But in forming an alliance with a heathen nation, and sealing the compact by marriage with an idolatrous princess, Solomon rashly disregarded the wise provision that God had made for maintaining the purity of His people. The hope that his Egyptian wife might be converted was but a feeble excuse for the sin.” – Prophets and Kings, Page 53.2, Ellen G. White.

“For a time God in His compassionate mercy overruled this terrible mistake; and the king, by a wise course, could have checked at least in a large measure the evil forces that his imprudence had set in operation. But Solomon had begun to lose sight of the Source of his power and glory. As inclination gained the ascendancy over reason, self-confidence increased, and he sought to carry out the Lord’s purpose in his own way. He reasoned that political and commercial alliances with the surrounding nations would bring these nations to a knowledge of the true God; and he entered into unholy alliance with nation after nation. Often these alliances were sealed by marriages with heathen princesses. The commands of Jehovah were set aside for the customs of surrounding peoples.” – Prophets and Kings, Page 53.3, Ellen G. White.

“Solomon flattered himself that his wisdom and the power of his example would lead his wives from idolatry to the worship of the true God, and also that the alliances thus formed would draw the nations round about into close touch with Israel. Vain hope! Solomon’s mistake in regarding himself as strong enough to resist the influence of heathen associates was fatal. And fatal, too, the deception that led him to hope that notwithstanding a disregard of God’s Law on his part, others might be led to revere and obey its sacred precepts.” – Prophets and Kings, Page 54.1, Ellen G. White.

Solomon’s story serves as a cautionary tale. It underscores the dangers of self-assuredness, overconfidence, and deception, especially in matters of faith and leadership. It illustrates that even the wisest among us can be led astray when we underestimate the influence of those around us and the power of our own decisions.

Solomon’s narrative serves as a warning about the potential consequences of such errors in judgment, mainly concerning matters of spiritual leadership and faith.

Malachi 2:13 (KJV) – “And this have ye done again, covering the altar of the Lord with tears, with weeping, and with crying out, insomuch that He regardeth not the offering any more, or receiveth it with good will at your hand.”

The people constantly went to God while crying, but their cry was not genuine. God is not moved so much by the expressions we show on our faces or the sadness we pretend to have. Eloquent words do not drive him. He is moved by an earnest heart.

In times of distress, individuals may cry out to God, hoping to find solace and relief. They may attend religious services, recite scripted prayers, and make grand gestures that appear to express their desperation. Yet, too often, these actions become mere rituals performed out of obligation or social pressure. The external display may be moving, but it may not genuinely reflect the state of the heart.

The Bible tells the story of a people who cried out to God, not out of genuine need, but as a pretence. In the book of Isaiah, the Lord confronts this issue: “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Isaiah 29:13, NIV). It is a powerful reminder that outward appearances or empty words do not deceive God. He sees the heart and knows the true nature of our intentions.

In contrast to empty cries, sincere prayer is a genuine outpouring of the heart. It is an intimate conversation with the Divine, rooted in authenticity and vulnerability. Such prayer is not bound by a specific religious tradition or elaborate language; it transcends barriers and cultural differences.

Sincere prayer is about opening one’s heart to God, sharing joys and sorrows, and seeking guidance and comfort. It is not about impressing others with eloquent speeches or public displays of religiosity. Instead, it is a deeply personal and honest expression of one’s innermost thoughts and feelings.

The beauty of sincere prayer lies in its ability to connect the human spirit with the Divine. God, as portrayed in various religious and spiritual traditions, is not swayed by the superficiality of our external expressions but is deeply moved by the authenticity and earnestness of the heart.

In various Psalms, David lays bare his soul before God, expressing his joys and struggles, his triumphs and defeats. David’s relationship with God was not built on empty rituals or grandiose displays but on the sincerity of his heart.

God responds to earnest hearts by offering comfort, guidance, and peace. This response is not necessarily a miraculous intervention in every situation but may come in the form of inner strength, clarity of thought, or a deep sense of assurance.

As we seek solace and guidance in times of need, let us strive to make our prayers authentic and earnest, bearing in mind that God sees beyond the facade and recognizes the sincerity of our hearts. In doing so, we can tap into the transformative power of genuine prayer, finding comfort, strength, and divine guidance on our life’s journey.

Malachi 3:13-15 (KJV) – “¹³ Your words have been stout against me, saith the Lord. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against Thee? ¹⁴ Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept His ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts? ¹⁵ And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.”

The people’s words are described as “stout against me, saith the Lord,” meaning they had spoken harshly or critically of God. However, the people seem oblivious to their words as they respond, “What have we spoken so much against thee?” In other words, they appear to deny their complaints, suggesting a lack of self-awareness or a tendency to downplay their grievances against God.

Malachi 3:14, the people express their frustration by questioning the value of serving God. They say, “It is vain to serve God,” and wonder, “What profit is it that we have kept His ordinance and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts?” This reflects a disillusionment, as they feel that their faithfulness and obedience to God’s commandments have not resulted in tangible benefits or blessings. They might have believed their devotion to God should have shielded them from difficulties or suffering.

Most human beings can only do something if something is in store for them. We always want something in exchange. Many people do not obey God because they do not see profit in doing so. Many do not serve in the church because they do not see the value.

The Israelites did not know the importance of serving God and obeying Him. What we fail to understand is that God has already given us so much for free. The air we breathe, the proper functioning of our bodies, and the various gifts we possess have been given to us for free. The best way to thank God for giving us all these is by obeying and serving Him.

Malachi 3:15 delves into the people’s perception of injustice in the world. They observe that the proud and those who engage in wickedness appear to prosper and are “set up,” while even those who “tempt God” by challenging His ways seem to escape unharmed. This perspective suggests a sense of moral frustration, where people see those who act contrary to God’s will succeeding in life while they struggle.

God’s response to these concerns is found in the subsequent verses, where He emphasizes the importance of faith, obedience, and trust in His plan. He calls for patience and highlights that a day of judgment will come when the righteous will be rewarded, and the wicked will face consequences for their actions.

Emphasizing God’s Love and Faithfulness

Malachi 1:2 (KJV) – “I have loved you, saith the Lord.”

When God began speaking to the Israelites through Prophet Malachi, He started by telling them what He had done for them and His attitude toward them. He started by telling them that He had loved them. He wanted them to see how unjust they were to Him and how unfairly they treated Him despite Him showing them love. God has shown us love, but we keep on mistreating Him.

As long as a person is alive, they do not have a good enough reason to disobey God. Some can say that they are disobedient to God because God has not blessed them. Such people forget that the gift of life, among other privileges they enjoy, is a blessing. We need to know that if we want God to take us to the next level, we should be faithful at the current level He has placed us in.

1 John 4:8 (KJV) – “He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.”

Proof of not knowing God is by hating each other. Proof of not knowing God is by disobeying God’s commands. To know God is to love. Love is not shown best by the emotions we have in our hearts but through the actions we do. When we genuinely go out of our way to help the poor, we prove that we know God.

When we genuinely respect our subordinates, we demonstrate that we know God. When we keep time, we prove that we know God. When we talk to each other instead of about each other, we show that we know God.

When we keep the seventh day Sabbath, we prove that we know God. The Bible does not say that God has love; it says that God is love. God and love are the same. They are inseparable. We who are created in the image of God should always be loving.

1 John 4:16-18 (KJV) – “¹⁶ And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. ¹⁷ Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is, so are we in this world. ¹⁸ There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.”

Malachi 3:6 (KJV) – “For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”

The opening phrase, “For I am the Lord, I change not,” conveys the profound concept of God’s immutability, which means that God does not change in His essence, character, or nature.

Unlike humans and the world around us, God remains constant and consistent. This unchanging aspect of God’s character is a source of great comfort and assurance for believers. It means His love, mercy, righteousness, and faithfulness are unwavering and reliable.

This verse is part of a dialogue between God and the people of Israel. The book highlights a period when the people had strayed from God, become spiritually apathetic, and were engaging in unfaithful practices. Despite their waywardness, God’s unchanging nature is a reassurance that His covenant promises to the sons of Jacob (the descendants of Israel) remain intact.

The latter part of the verse, “therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed,” underscores the idea that it is solely because of God’s unchanging nature that the Israelites have not been utterly destroyed or consumed due to disobedience. God’s enduring faithfulness and covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob have preserved the nation even when they deserved judgment. His mercy, rather than His wrath, has been extended to them.

Malachi 3:6 serves as a reminder that God’s faithfulness extends to us as well. In a world marked by change and uncertainty, God’s unchanging character provides a firm foundation for our faith. We can trust in His promises, knowing that His love and grace are always available to us, regardless of our circumstances.

While God’s unchanging nature brings comfort, it also encourages repentance. The context of the verse in Malachi is a call for the people to return to God, honour Him, and be faithful to their covenant relationship with Him. It reminds us that, though God does not change, we can change our ways and align ourselves with His unchanging truth.

God is always faithful. He is more faithful than a compass needle pointing north, more faithful than a coin that always lands on heads and more faithful than a mountain that never moves. Hebrews 13:8 (KJV) – “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.”

God never changes. The miracles that He did in time past, He can do them now. I have heard various people saying that the miracles in the Bible can’t happen in this present age. God can still raise the dead the way He raised Lazarus. Some people say that in this current time, God cannot punish people the way He used to punish them in the Bible. God still has the same powers to do that but does not delight in punishment. He delights in mercy.

Foretelling the Coming of the Messiah

Malachi 3:1 (KJV) – “Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before Me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to His temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts.”

Malachi prophesized the coming of Jesus Christ. He prophesied about John the Baptist, who would prepare the way for Jesus (Matthew 11:10, Mark 1:2, Luke 7:27).

“In an ancient royal procession, the messenger went before the king to announce his arrival, to indicate the route, and to remove any obstacles in the road. John the Baptist fulfilled the exact ministry for Jesus.” – Enduring Word Bible Commentary, David Guzik.

Malachi prophesized this so that the people would be prepared for the coming of Jesus. The Bible tells us that God does not do anything before revealing it to His servants, the prophets (Amos 3:7).

God does not want to catch us by surprise. Therefore, He gives us a clue of what He will do. He may not always give us the full details on how He will do it and when He will do it, but He will surely tell us of the coming events, especially if they are significant.

Malachi 3:2-5 (KJV) – “² But who may abide the day of His coming? And who shall stand when He appeareth? For He is like a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap: ³ And He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and He shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness. ⁴ Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the Lord, as in the days of old, and as in former years. ⁵ And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not Me, saith the Lord of hosts.”

The passage begins by asking a rhetorical question, “But who may abide the day of His coming?” This refers to a future event when God’s presence and judgment will be made manifest. It is a day of reckoning when people will have to account for their actions and their faith.

The description of God as a “refiner’s fire” and “fullers’ soap” emphasizes the purifying and cleansing nature of God’s presence. Just as a refiner purifies precious metals like silver and gold by melting away impurities, God’s presence refines and purifies the hearts and lives of people. The “fuller’s soap” refers to the cleaning agent used to launder clothes, emphasizing the thorough cleansing and renewal that God brings.

Malachi 3:3 mentions explicitly that God will purify the sons of Levi. In the Bible, the Levites were a tribe chosen for priestly duties. This purification signifies the need for religious leaders and servants of God to be morally and spiritually clean, setting an example for others.

The purpose of this purification is so that the people, including the sons of Levi (the priests), can offer sacrifices and worship to the Lord in righteousness. It highlights the importance of sincere and pure worship, where offerings are given with genuine devotion and adherence to God’s commandments.

Malachi promises that when this purification occurs, the offerings from Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasant to the Lord, as they were in the old days. This suggests a time of restoration and renewed favour from God. It implies that when people turn their hearts back to God and live in righteousness, they will experience blessings and a return to the close relationship with God that characterized earlier times.

In Malachi 3:5, God declares His intent to come near to pass judgment. He will act as a swift witness against various wrongdoings, including sorcery, adultery, false oaths, and oppression of vulnerable members of society (hirelings, widows, orphans, and strangers). This signifies that there will be consequences for those who engage in such sinful behaviour.

Malachi 3:2-5 speaks of a day of reckoning when God will purify and refine His people, including the religious leaders, to bring about genuine and righteous worship.

The passage also emphasizes the importance of moral conduct and social justice, warning of consequences for those who engage in wicked practices. It is a call to return to a close and righteous relationship with God and to live according to His commandments.

Encouraging Tithing and Offerings

Malachi 3:8-12 (KJV) – “⁸ Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed Me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed Thee? In tithes and offerings. ⁹ Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed Me, even this whole nation. ¹⁰ Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. ¹¹ And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. ¹² And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts.”

In this Bible text, the phrase, “Saith the Lord of hosts” is repeated three times. Malachi wants to assure us that God is speaking these words. Often, when preaching to God’s people, preachers give their own opinions instead of giving a plain, “Thus saith the Lord.” Every word that proceeds from our mouth when preaching, teaching or speaking to others should be according to God’s Word.

Secondly, Malachi may have emphasized the phrase. “saith the Lord of hosts.” Because the words he wrote might have seemed impossible for people to believe. For example, it might have been difficult for people to think that God can open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing that the individual lacks room to receive.

It is difficult for someone to believe that it is possible to plant and do your business and profit without Satan causing harm to it. It is also hard for someone to believe all nations calling them blessed.

These astonishing blessings are promised to us when we refrain from robbing God. Failure to return tithes and offerings is likened to robbing God, and those who steal from God are cursed. God is so good that He allows us to get abundant blessings. What he tells us to do is quite effortless. He tells us to return a tithe, which is ten per cent of all our increase. In addition to the tithe, we should return offerings.

God has commanded us to return a tenth to Him as tithe. He has not commanded the percentage of offerings that we are required to return. He leaves it open for us to choose. We can give an additional 0.005% as an offering or an extra 50% as an offering. That is for us to decide. However, we should take note that nothing given to God is lost.  

Many facing financial challenges would be relieved of those challenges if they faithfully returned tithes and offerings. Refrain from returning tithe opens up the door of the devourer. It creates a loophole by removing the hedge of protection covering your finances and your life in general.

Tithing results to blessings. However, tithing alone is not enough. It should be accompanied by obeying all commandments of God. Tithing is one act of love, and each commandment of God is an act of love.

“The Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy emphasize the importance of returning the tithe to God on a timely and systematic basis: “Honor the Lord with thy substance and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.” Proverbs 3:9 “Of all our income we should make the first appropriation to God.” – Testimonies for the Church, Volume 4, Page 474, Ellen G. White.

“We are not to consecrate to Him what remains of our income after all our real or imaginary wants are satisfied; but before any portion is consumed we should set apart that which God has specified as His.” – Counsels on Stewardship, Page 71, Ellen G. White.

“Even if a member does “set apart” the tithe as his income is received but does not bring it to the “storehouse” at regular intervals, he goes counter to inspired instruction and exposes himself to the temptation to borrow the tithe for personal use. “The Lord calls for His tithe to be given in to His treasury, strictly, honestly and faithfully, let this portion be returned to Him.” – Counsels on Stewardship, Page 82, Ellen G. White.

“That which has been set apart according to the Scriptures as belonging to the Lord, constitutes the revenue of the gospel, and is no longer ours. It is no better than sacrilege for a man to take from God’s treasury in order to serve himself or to serve others.” – Tithing Principles and Guidelines, Page 19.2, Ellen G. White.

“Some may have good intentions of eventually returning the tithe, but choose to do so at a more convenient time—perhaps at the end of the year. Such persons are not only putting their own needs ahead of the claims of God but run the risk of getting so far behind in their obligations to God that it may be very difficult for them to ever catch up.” – Tithing Principles and Guidelines, Page 19.3, Ellen G. White.

One of the most fundamental reasons why postponing tithing is discouraged is that it reflects a neglect of one’s spiritual commitment. Tithing is not merely a financial transaction; it is an expression of faith and loyalty to one’s religious beliefs. When individuals continually delay their tithing, they risk placing their financial needs above their spiritual duties. This can lead to a growing detachment from Godly principles that guide their lives.

Another critical concern related to postponing tithing is the accumulation of unpaid obligations. When individuals consistently defer their tithing contributions, they create a backlog of unfulfilled financial commitments to their faith community. This accumulation can become burdensome and overwhelming over time, making it increasingly difficult to catch up on unpaid tithes. Consequently, it may lead to a cycle of postponed payments, leading to long-term financial strain and a sense of indebtedness to the church.

Churches often rely on tithing to fund their activities, services, and community support initiatives. Postponing tithing disrupts the financial stability of these institutions. It can impede their ability to provide essential services, support charitable activities, and maintain the physical infrastructure, such as places of worship and educational facilities. The cumulative effect of delayed tithing can undermine the community individuals aim to support through their contributions.

God blesses us when we return tithe. Postponing tithing may result in missed opportunities to experience the spiritual and personal benefits that are believed to accompany faithful giving. When tithing is delayed, individuals may be deprived of the fulfillment and well-being that comes from aligning their actions with their faith.

Tithing should be regarded as a timely and consistent practice that not only benefits churches but also nurtures the individual’s spiritual well-being. By fulfilling this financial obligation promptly, individuals can align their actions with their faith, strengthen their religious communities, and experience the manifold blessings associated with faithful giving.

“There are men whom God has blessed, whom He is testing to see what response they will make to His benefits. They have withheld their tithes and offerings until their debt to the Lord God of Hosts has become so great that they grow pale at the thought of rendering to the Lord His own,—a just tithe. Make haste, brethren, you have now the opportunity to be honest with God; delay not.” – Counsels on Stewardship, Page 97, Ellen G. White.

Prophet Malachi showed faith by preaching the truth as God had told him to. The Book of Malachi is a profound testament to a crucial period in the history of the Jewish people and their relationship with God. Through its historical context and prophetic messages, it sheds light on the challenges and moral decline the Israelites faced upon their return from exile.

Malachi, as the messenger of God, fearlessly rebuked corruption and indifference, calling for a return to genuine faith and obedience. Notably, his prophecies of a coming Messiah offered a glimmer of hope in a time of spiritual desolation, laying the groundwork for fulfilling these prophecies in the New Testament.

The Book of Malachi, while delivering messages of rebuke, ultimately leaves us with the promise of restoration, encouraging us to embrace God’s love and faithfulness as we journey in faith.

GOD BLESS YOU!

Prayer

Heavenly Father,

As I reflect on the Book of Malachi and its messages of rebuke and hope, I come before You with a grateful heart. Lord, just as Malachi called for a return to genuine faith and obedience, may I, too, be inspired to deepen my relationship with You, to honour Your commandments, and to seek sincerity in my worship. In moments of moral decline, help me to stand firm in faith and to share my love and truth with others.

We are thankful for the hope and restoration in the promises of a coming Messiah, fulfilled through Jesus Christ. May I continue to find hope and encouragement in Your enduring love and faithfulness.

As I journey in faith, may Your presence guide me and may Your grace sustain me. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Activity

• Find a peaceful place to reflect and meditate on the lessons from the Book of Malachi, particularly the importance of faith, obedience, and recognizing God’s presence.
• Take a few moments to read a passage from the Book of Malachi.
• Reflect on your life and consider areas where you may have strayed from sincere faith or obedience to God’s commandments.
• In your journal, write down your reflections, acknowledging any specific areas in your life where you can improve your faith and obedience.
• Set personal goals for nurturing your faith and obedience in the coming days or weeks. These can be simple acts of kindness, volunteering, prayer, or studying scripture.
• List some of the things that you do in church or during your personal worship that you cannot do in the presence of an earthly judge or king and commit to refrain from doing them.
• Make a commitment to always return tithes and offerings. Return ten percent as a tithe to God, and Prayerfully set the percentage of offerings that you are willing to return to God.
• Commit to being more aware of God’s presence in your daily life, recognizing His guidance and blessings even in small moments.

Author: Mark Alex   

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