Wednesday, October 15, 2014

Malachi 4 and Conclusion

Malachi concludes the book with a message of the Messiah's Coming.  On the Day of the LORD, wickedness will be burnt up, destroyed, and overcome.

In light of His Coming, the People are reminded to keep the covenant and live in obedience.  There is a promise of reconciliation for those who fear Him, but destruction to those who do not.  

The reference to Elijah may refer to John the Baptist for Christ's First Coming; but, possibly to one of the Witnesses in Revelation for His Second Coming.  This is because Elijah was an OT prophet during a time of crisis and right before judgment.

16-Oct:  To summarize the whole study series in Malachi, when we as God's People listen for His message of:
  • LOVE - we can remember His Love and Goodness to us no matter our circumstances, we would respond in love by giving Him our best and honor His Name that we may be a witness to the world, and we would offer pure sacrifices (e.g. our lives)
  • REBUKE - we would seek to keep the covenant and be His People in obedience; and we are to know HIM, remembering that He does not change and not to deny His goodness and justice
  • JUDGMENT - we would be prepared and ready for the coming judgment, endure fire and purification in our lives, give God what He is due, and to fear Him and walk in His ways
  • HIS COMING - would would look forward to His Return, and live according to that perspective

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