Malachi chapter 3

vs 1

So there are in fact two people coming - a messenger to prepare the way, and then the Lord, and him suddenly. Reading this from Christian eyes, it looks a lot like John the Baptist and then Jesus. But is it really that clear and obvious a prophecy? I guess it could be calling back on Isaiah's voice of one calling in the desert.

More likely, I think Malachi is talking about the messenger who comes to prepare the way (possibly even himself!) and then it will be the Lord who comes and fills his temple.

vs 2

That is, he comes to perform cleansing. And what with everyone walking around with poo on their faces, they shouldn't think they'll get out of it lightly.

vs 3

Him who comes will purify for God a priesthood to offer righteous and acceptable sacrifices. Starting from the top and working his way down.

vs 4

God doesn't just want a priesthood for himself, though. He wants the whole nation to be back in good relationship with him. This means that, for now, the sacrificial system needs to be cleansed. That then allows all the people of Judah to come back into fellowship with God through proper sacrifice.

vs 5

What a great verse. Notice that amongst all the typical oppressive and evil attitudes that are spoken against, depriving foreigners of justice is among them. This was a strong point back in the Torah. But it took a back seat about 50 years later, and the Jews became a very exclusive people. They were not to intermarry, but foreigners were allowed to live amongst them with strict rules, including orderly worship.

And yet, God lists these transgressions for which they will be judged, some of which he's already accused them of - but he says "Don't fear me" :P

vs 6

When God says he doesn't change in this sense, it seems he means he won't break the covenant he had with their forefathers. It is Jacob and the promise to him that prevents their destruction.

vs 7

It's true! There had never really been a time where Israel was truly faithful. And yet, God still calls them to return to him. And now for the next question - so how do they do it?

vs 8

Now God accuses them of robbing him through insufficient tithes and offerings. He's really going to town on these Jews about the insufficiencies of their religious system. No wonder he ended up ditching it!

vs 9

God takes this stuff seriously. Remember, the religious covenant wasn't just designed as something to keep them busy - it is the mark of God's faithfulness to them, and it is meant to keep them faithful to God. He takes it seriously, so should they.