Preview: We continue our study of the twelve minor prophets with the book of Malachi, the final prophetic book in the Old Testament. Malachi addresses a community that has grown indifferent in their worship and relationship with God. His prophecy serves as a wake-up call, challenging the people to return to God with sincerity and devotion. As we study Malachi's message, we will uncover its historical importance and draw connections to its relevance in our lives today.
Scripture Reading: Malachi 3:1-18.
Memory Verse: II Corinthians 9:7.
1. How does Malachi begin his prophecy, and what is the significance of God's declaration of love for Israel? Malachi 1:2-3.
2. What is the indictment against the priests, and how does it reflect on the people's attitude towards worship? Malachi 1:6.
3. What role and responsibility does Malachi attribute to the priests, and how does this relate to their failure in serving God? Malachi 2:7-10.
4. How do the people express their skepticism towards God's justice, and what is the underlying issue addressed by Malachi? Malachi 2:17.
Note: Malachi highlighting God's love for Israel, setting the tone for a message that addresses the people's indifference and neglect. He then confronts the people's skepticism and highlights their failure to recognize the justice and righteousness of God.
5. Who is the messenger mentioned by Malachi, and how does this prophecy find fulfillment in the New Testament? Malachi 3:1.
6. In what way does Malachi describe the refining and purifying work of the messenger, and what does it signify for the people? Malachi 3:2-3.
Note: Malachi prophesies the coming of a messenger who will bring a refining and purifying work, pointing towards the redemptive work of Christ.
7. What unchanging attribute of God does Malachi emphasize, and how does it offer assurance to the people? Malachi 3:6.
8. What accusation does Malachi make against the people, and how does it relate to their neglect in honoring God with tithes and offerings? Malachi 3:8-9.
Note: Malachi addresses the people's disregard for God's financial principles, linking their neglect to their spiritual condition.
9. How does Malachi challenge the people to test God, and what blessings and consequences are associated with obedience or disobedience? Malachi 3:10.
10. What specific promises does God make regarding the blessings tied to bringing tithes into the storehouse? Malachi 3:11.
Note: Malachi highlights the specific blessings tied to obedience in giving, emphasizing God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.
11. How do the people express their discontent with serving God, and how does Malachi respond to their complaints? Malachi 3:13-15.
12. How does Malachi conclude his prophecy, and what does he prophesy about the coming of Elijah before the great and dreadful day of the LORD? Malachi 4:5-6.
Conclusion: Malachi's prophecy delivers a powerful message about God's unchanging love, the coming of a refining messenger (fulfilled in John the Baptist and Christ), and the importance of sincere worship and obedience. The call to bring tithes and offerings is not just about finances; it symbolizes the people's commitment to God. As we reflect on Malachi's words, we are challenged to examine our hearts, prioritize genuine worship, and honor God with all aspects of our lives. The promise of blessings and the anticipation of Elijah's coming point to a future fulfillment in Christ and His redemptive work. Malachi's prophecy continues to resonate, urging us to return to God with sincerity, trust in His promises, and live in readiness for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.