Malachi 3:16-4:6

V.      Those who fear the LORD are encouraged, 3:16-4:6.

The question and answer session is finished.  The prophet has spoken.  And now we see that some, there is always a remnant, feared the LORD.  They listened and heard the burden of the word of the LORD.  The imagery is marvelous.  God certainly needs no help in remembering these who responded with true hearts.  But the book of remembrance is for their encouragement.  Remember Psalm 56:8: put my tears in your bottle.  Are they not in your book?  The difficult days had caused many to rob God.  But those who feared God knew He had not forgotten.  They did not have harsh words, blaming God.

Those who fear God have the assurance that they are His and will be so treated in the future day of judgment (v17-18).  What a blessed day that will be for those who fear Him: it is the day that I make them My jewels says the LORD.  God will not forget.  You will see the distinction in that day of the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who don’t.

And yes, that day is coming (4:1).  It will be the Day of the LORD which will be a day of burning like an oven for the proud.  But for those who fear God The Sun of Righteousness shall arise bringing healing and blessing.  What a magnificent title for the Messiah.  The same one Whose coming is burning, like heat from the Sun, will for the righteous be the Sun that brings blessing.  His coming, as the prophets have repeatedly said, and as Rev. 19 makes clear, will result in the trampling of those who refuse to bow in worship.

Malachi’s preaching ends with two words of encouragement.

·        First, Remember the Law of Moses, 3:4.  This is essential and specific for Israel.  This is their foundation as a nation.  The Law given through Moses at Mt. Sinai is the basis for Israel blessings and curses.

·        Second, I will send you Elijah the prophet.  Elijah’s coming will prepare the way for the Messiah.  This is why the question was raised concerning John the Baptist as to whether or not he was Elijah.  Jesus said about John, If you are willing to receive it, he is Elijah who is to come (Mt. 11:14).  They did not receive John.  But Elijah will still come in the future.  Both Malachi and Jesus were encouraging those who fear God: the promise of the Messiah will be fulfilled.  Don’t become impatient or discouraged or unbelieving!  He will come and hearts will be changed, a promise of the New Covenant.

What encouraging words these are.  We know that this same impatience will characterize the last days of this present age (2 Peter 3:1-9).  Peter said in 3:9 (the Lord is not slack concerning His promise) what Malachi is saying here.  He who is coming will come and will not tarry.  Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back My soul has no pleasure in him (Heb. 10:37-38).