Malachi

 

Background Name & Author:

 Malachi. The name Malachi means “my messenger,” leading some to believe that it was not written by someone with the name Malachi, but is actually authored anonymously.

 Date: 4th century BCE, approximately 100 years after the return of the exiles from Babylon.

  Audience: The Jews in Palestine who have returned from exile. The people were no longer involved in idolatry. However, having suffered from feminine, the people began to doubt Yawheh’s love and justice. Malachi is structured around six disputes. Each dispute follows a consistent pattern: • The issue is raised by Yahweh (e.g. "The Lord said, 'I love you.'") • The people asked Jehovah (e.g. But you say, “‘How have You loved us,’”) • Yahweh responds by showing examples. These six disputes are divided into two primary sections. The first three deal with Israel’s second-rate sacrifices. The last three deal with Israel’s doubts about God’s justice. 

Theme

 Malachi called for Israel to return to the LORD (3:7). Specifically, he called on them to give the whole tithe to the LORD (3:10), and to remember the Law of Moses (4:4). If they tested God in the tithe, he promised to bring them such blessings from heaven that the nations would call them blessed (3:10-12). After returning to Him, they would see the God of justice they had been missing (2:17, 3:18). The LORD rejects Israel’s sacrifices (1:6-2:16). First Dispute: Yahweh’s Love Second Dispute: Temple Worship: The Israelites are offering blemished animals (1:6-14). Third Dispute: Marriage 2:10-16: The LORD assures Israel of His justice (2:17-4:3). Fourth Dispute: Israel doubts God’s justice (2:14-3:6) Fifth Dispute: God asks Israel to test His justice (3:7-12) Sixth Dispute: Israel doubts the profit in serving God (3:13-4:3). 

Body

The Prophet's Message:

At the heart of the Book of Malachi lies the powerful voice of the prophet, delivering a message from God to a people lost in spiritual apathy and moral decline. Explore the stern rebukes and passionate pleas of Malachi as he calls the people back to their covenant with the Almighty. Discover how the prophet's words transcend time and remain relevant in our own lives today.

Covenant and Faithfulness:

Uncover the significance of the covenant between God and His chosen people, and how it defines their relationship throughout history. Dive deep into the notion of faithfulness and commitment, drawing valuable lessons on how we can stay true to our own promises and convictions in an ever-changing world.

Social Justice and Compassion:

Join us as we explore the Book of Malachi's powerful call for social justice and compassion. Witness the prophet's concern for the marginalized, the widows, orphans, and foreigners, and learn how these lessons continue to inspire us to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

The Hope of the Messiah:

Discover the prophetic vision of the coming messenger who will pave the way for the Lord, bringing hope and salvation to humanity. Unravel the messianic promises of Malachi and their profound significance for both Jewish and Christian traditions.

Reconciliation and Restoration:

As we approach the closing verses of Malachi, we encounter a glimmer of hope in the promise of reconciliation. Explore the transformative power of forgiveness and restoration, and how these themes continue to resonate in our modern world, guiding us toward a path of healing and unity.

Conclusion (4:4-6) 

Malachi concludes the book with a short appendix calling upon the people to remember two of God’s greatest servants in the history of Israel: Moses and Elijah. Israel is first to remember the Law given by God to Moses (4:4). Then they are to remember Elijah. For Elijah will come before the Day of the LORD (4:5) and restore harmony in the family (4:6). When that takes place, the famine and suffering the people are facing will finally be taken away.