Although the urging of Haggai and Zechariah had brought the completion of the temple (516 B.C.), this had not produced the messianic age many expected. The warm response to Zechariah’s call to repentance had grown cold, because God apparently had not restored the covenant blessings. Malachi, writing a short time later, called the people to repentance with respect to: the priesthood, which had become corrupt; worship, which had become routine; divorce, which was widespread; social justice, which was being ignored; and tithing, which was neglected. “Will man rob God?” the Lord asked through Malachi (3:8), and he promised to “open the windows of heaven” (v. 10) for those who pay their full tithe. Malachi predicted the coming of both John the Baptist and Jesus, referring to each as a “messenger” of God (3:1). (Mal, Anon, 2001. The Holy Bible: English Standard Version, Wheaton: Standard Bible Society.)
Mal 1.1-5; Prophecy; The LORD reveals his love for Jacob by shattering Esau
Mal 1.6-14; Judgment; The Priests give despised offerings. The LORD will not accept them.
Mal 2.1-9; Judgment; The Priests do not keep the way of the LORD. They do not instruct the people.
Mal 2.10-16; Judgment-Exhortation; The people of Judah have been faithless to the wives of their youth.
Mal 2.17-3.5; Judgment; They have wearied the LORD. He will come and purify them and draw near to judge.
Mal 3.6-15; Judgment; The people have been robbing God. They have been arguing with his judgment.
Mal 3.16-18; Prophecy; The LORD will make his treasured possession. They will see a distinction in people.
Mal 4.1-6; Prophecy; Elijah the prophet will come before the great and awesome day of the LORD.