Malachi

In this chapter Malachi shares a word from God that first expresses God’s love for Israel. Then it shares how Israel has failed to honor God. The word is shared almost as a conversation between God and His people

Principles: God is deserving of honor.

This chapter gives a warning to priests who have become unfaithful to God. He also calls out men who have married women who sacrificed to idols and men who were unfaithful to their wives.

Principles: God expects leaders to follow him.

This chapter contains some relatively well-known texts. The chapter starts out by noting a time of coming judgment with a call to repentance. One of the well-known texts is often used in supporting tithing to the church. The chapter ends by noting God’s mercy to those that fear Him.

Principles: have a heart attitude of giving because of by God’s great blessings towards you.

In this chapter Malachi talks about God’s coming judgment but says those that are following God will have joy as a result. He also notes that Elijah will be God’s prophet before the day of judgment comes.

Principles: despite judgment on others followers of God will walk in joy.