week of 2/22

Unit 18  Session 4

THE DAY FORETOLD

MALACHI 3:1-6 ; 4:1-6

 

Key Concept:

A day is coming when God will purify His people and destroy evil.

The prophet Malachi ministered to the returned people of Israel around the same time as Ezra and Nehemiah (somewhere between 460 and 425 B.C.). Malachi's main message, made up of six disputations (arguments) from God, was directed at the spiritual apathy of the people. He warned that though God would destroy their enemies, He would also purify His people. Though the Jews weren't guilty of blatant idolatry like their ancestors, their faith had become joyless and mechanical. Through Malachi, the Lord called them to return truly to Him.

As you examine Malachi 3:1-6 ; 4:1-6:

 

✞   Recognize that God's unchanging qualities include His

    faithfulness to His promises and covenants.

✞   Consider how the fire of purification for God's people

    will also bring the destruction of the wicked.