Discussion Guide for Wednesday, April 1, 2020
JUSTICE FOR ALL
Unit Theme: God Requires Justice
Print Text: Malachi 2:1-9; 3:5, 6
Key Verse: Micah 2:2
Big Idea
Just as Nehemiah is the last of the historic writers, Malachi is the last of the prophetic writers. He is the last messenger of God until the coming of the Messiah. It is the connecting link between Old Testament prophecy and New Testament fulfillment. The book can be seen as a miniature summary of the entire Old Testament, covering the five key truths: 1) the selection of Israel by God, 2) the transgression of Israel against God, 3) the manifestation of the Messiah, 4) the tribulation upon the nations, and 5) the purification of Israel at last.
This section of Malachi discusses the priesthood and its sin. They were taking the high calling God had given to them for granted and consequently carried out their temple service with contempt. Malachi 2:8 summarizes: “you have turned aside from the way; you have caused many to stumble…you have corrupted the covenant of Levi”. The prophet calls for their repentance and warns them of a curse on their blessings. Another way of saying this is that God rewards our obedience with blessings, but there are consequences for our disobedience. These consequences are designed to correct our behavior. Malachi lists four distinguishing marks of those who are true to their calling: 1) a proper relationship with God (reverence), 2) a personal commitment to the truth of God’s Word, 3) a pursuit of godly character, and 4) the preservation of knowledge (Malachi 2:5-7).
The good news of the lesson is that an opportunity to correct their course was available to these erring priests. This is a day of grace and mercy, and God has allowed us an opportunity to repent and return to Him. God does not change because He cannot change, and His faithfulness to His Word is why His people have not been destroyed.
Discussion Questions
- Has ministry every seemed like a burden to you? What led to this feeling? How did you deal with it?
Prayer Focus
Father, keep us from handling sacred duties in such a way that we lose sight of You. Empower our church to remember our covenant with You. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
Next Steps
Malachi 3:6 introduces the doctrine of the immutability of God. This doctrine reminds us that God cannot change, for better or for worse. His attributes always remain consistent. This week, consider the attributes of God and how they have been made known to you. Take some to time to thank God for His consistency. Name each attribute (love, mercy, grace, faithfulness, etc.), and recall specific occurrences.
Want to Get Ahead?
Read and meditate on Isaiah 42:1-9 in your devotional time this week.
Greater Beulah Missionary Baptist Church 