Malachi is the final book of the Old Testament and addresses the spiritual decline of the Israelites and God’s disappointment with them.
Key Verse In Malachi 1:2, God says, “I have loved you,” says the Lord. “But you ask, ‘How have you loved us?’” Through this question, God highlights the ingratitude of the Israelites.
Main Message Malachi also criticizes the priesthood for their lack of reverence in offerings. Malachi 1:7 states, “By offering defiled food on my altar. But you ask, ‘How have we defiled you?’ By saying that the Lord’s table is contemptible.”
Despite this, the book of Malachi contains a message of hope. Malachi 3:1 prophesies the coming of a messenger who will prepare the way for the Lord, later identified as John the Baptist. This is a message of hope that God has not forgotten His people and has a plan for their redemption.
Malachi’s book teaches us about God’s holiness and zeal. It also reminds us that God’s promises will be fulfilled, and He will one day restore His people.
