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Malachi – Debating God

Malachi 3:16

Background

A. Malachi = “My Messenger” - Perhaps a priest, but little is known of him.

B. Prophesied to Judah circa 400 B.C.

C. The last of God’s prophets for nearly 400 years. The next would be John the Baptist.

(3:1)

Outline

  1. Debating with God (Seven “Wherein”s)

    1. Questioning God’s Love - 1:2

    2. Questioning God’s Assessment of Their Attitude - 1:6

    3. Questioning God’s Assessment of Their Offerings - 1:7

    4. Questioning God’s Assessment of Their Life View - 2:17

    5. Questioning God’s Assessment of Their Backsliding - 3:7

    6. Questioning God’s Assessment of Their Giving - 3:8

    7. Questioning God’s Assessment of Their Selfish Service - 3:13

  2. Affirmation of the LORD’s Love (1:2-5)

  3. Accusations made by the LORD (1:6-2:17)

    1. Corrupted Priesthood (1:6-2:9)

    2. Compromised People (2:10-17)

      1. God is the Father of all by virtue of creation only.

      2. The sin of mixed (various religions) marriages.

      3. The sin of divorce.

  4. Announcements from the LORD (3:1-4:6)

    1. The Messiah and His Predecessor (3:1-6)

    2. A Plea for Repentance (3:7-15)

    3. Characteristics of God-fearing people (3:16-18)

    4. Future Judgment and Glory (4:1-6)

Some Lessons

  1. There is no point in arguing with God. He is right.

  2. God cares about your family. (2:15-16)

  3. Man is prone to see himself as good. (2:17)

  4. Obedience in giving to God’s work results in God blessings. (3:10)

  5. Serving God is profitable (productive and good) whether we see results or not. (3:14)




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