Malachi 1:1-4:6

After preaching the first lesson introducing his sermon series on “The Sins of the Saints,” a sister chastised the preacher as she left the building.

When he asked her why she was upset about the sermon, she replied, “The sins of Christians are different from other people.”

“Yes,” replied the preacher, “they’re worse.”

Warren Wiersbe suggested the sins of God’s people are worse because they not only “break the law of God, but they break the heart of God.”

In our passage today, which is the short little book of Malachi, the prophet is called by God to rebuke His people for their sins. These 4 chapters can be outlined by 6 major areas where God’s people needed correction. Unfortunately these sins continue to plague God’s people today, just as they did in 430 B.C.

As you read these 55 verses, note the style of the writer. An assertion is made. An objection is anticipated. And a response is given.

#1 They Disputed God’s Love (1:1-5)

“‘I have loved you,’ says the Lord.” But the people questioned God, rhetorically asked, “In what way have you loved us?”

Just a cursory knowledge of God’s dealing with Israel demonstrates His grace, mercy and love toward a people who were often disobedient and ungrateful. Deliverance from Egyptian bondage. Physical sustenance during the wilderness wanderings. Protection from their enemies. And their inheritance of Canaan. All of these were concrete demonstrations of God’s love. Yet, they doubted it.

Sadly, we may find ourselves in a similar situation, by complaining when our circumstances are less than ideal. When we suffer some set back. Or experience adversity. “Where’s God?” someone cynically questions. “Why doesn’t he do something?” If God was a God of love, he wouldn’t allow _________” Be careful.

God loves you. Unconditionally. Don’t doubt it.

#2 They Disgraced God’s Name (1:6-2:9)

8 times in this text Malachi used the phrase “My name” speaking of God’s character and reputation. They failed to honor God’s name. To respect it. Revere it. And reverence it. Their sacrifices and worship displayed a shocking indifference, disrespect, and even contempt for Jehovah,

However, we may be just as guilty when we rush through a worship service with little thought to why we are there and to whom we’re worshiping. When God’s name is uttered without respect. Or worse yet, used as a by word or exclamation when we say or text OMG.

#3 They Desecrated God’s Covenant (2:10-16)

Malachi further condemns their marital infidelity. Their casual atttitude toward divorce. And intermarrying with heathens. They had profaned and desecrated God’s marriage covenant.

Today with societal acceptance and the ease of divorce, defiling the marriage bond is more common than ever. A failure to be faithful to our marriage vows breaks the covenant we made with each other and with God. The prophet said “God hates divorce.” He still does.

#4 They Distrusted God’s Justice (2:17-3:6)

Although Jehovah history was one of judgment and justice, the people were skeptical. “Where is the God is justice?” they questioned.

Just as God did not defer judgment at the time, place and manner of His choosing, He will do the same today. God’s delays are not His denials. The wicked may prosper for a while, but one day there will be a price to pay. The Bible teaches that we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.

#5 They Defrauded God’s Storehouse (3:7-12)

“Will a man rob God? asks the prophet. Of course, the people would deny it saying, “How have we robbed you?”

The answer is found in their failure to meet their financial obligations as required by Moses’ Law. By withholding their offering they had defrauded God.

If we’re not careful, we can lavishly spend our money on acquiring possessions and enjoying pleasure, and neglect to “give as we are prospered” to support the Lord’s work.

#6 They Disdained God’s Service (3:13-4:6).

“You have said harsh things against Me,” God charged. The complainers and evil doers showed contempt and scorn, as they spurned their spiritual service. A faithful few, however, were believers whom God claimed as His own. Malachi, of course, was a faithful messenger. And one would come in the future who, too, would embrace his ministry and mission to pave the way for the Messiah.

The message of Malachi rings true today. Don’t fall prey to indifference, indolence, ingratitude, inattention, or irreverence. Don’t break God’s heart.

God will judge the sins of the saints.

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman