MALACHI 1

GOD LOVES THE ISRAELITES DESPITE THEIR REBELLION 

Through the prophet Malachi, God reassures the Israelites of His love for them. In response, the Israelites question God’s love, asking for the ways God has expressed His love. Because they have not seen God’s provision in the ways they have desired, they question God’s goodness and love for them.

God reminds the Israelites that He chose them as His people, referencing the rivalry between two brothers, Jacob and Esau (see Genesis 25–27). Jacob’s ancestors became the Israelites, God’s adopted people, but the descendants of Esau became the Edomites, one of Israel's greatest enemies. God declares that He loves His chosen people and hates those who oppose them.

God accuses the Israelite priests of disdain towards Him and He rebukes their defective, meaningless sacrifices. Instead of offering spotless animals, as required in Leviticus 22, they present blemished and worthless offerings. This law, and the Israelites failure to obey, points to the need for a savior—Jesus, a sinless, perfect lamb.