Malachi

 + Nature of the Book:
.Malachi is the last book of the Old Testament and one of the Minor Prophets. It is written as a prophetic message to the people of Israel after their return from exile. The book is structured as a series of dialogues between God and His people, addressing their doubts, complaints, and unfaithfulness. It serves as both a rebuke and a promise, preparing the way for the coming of the Messiah.

 + Main Themes:

. Faithfulness to God: The people are rebuked for neglecting true worship, offering blemished sacrifices, and showing indifference to God.

. Covenant loyalty: God calls His people to honor Him as Father and keep the covenant sincerely.

. Justice and righteousness: Condemnation of corrupt priests, unfaithfulness in marriage, and social injustice.

. The coming of the Lord: A prophecy of judgment but also of hope, with the promise of a messenger who will prepare the way (seen as John the Baptist in the New Testament).

. Day of the Lord: A final warning that God will purify His people and judge the wicked.

 + Interpretations:

. Historical view: A call to post-exilic Israel to return to wholehearted worship and obedience.

. Messianic view: A prophecy pointing forward to Christ, the Messenger of the covenant, and John the Baptist who prepares His way.

 + Structure:
.The book alternates between God’s charges against the people, their skeptical questions, and God’s responses. It closes with both a warning of judgment and a promise of restoration.

Key Verse:
“Behold, I send My messenger, and he will prepare the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple.” (Malachi 3:1)