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We have just started preaching through the Book of Malachi. It is a prophetic book, but contrary to many people's expectations it does not contain much about the future. Most of the work of prophets consisted of forthtelling rather than fore-telling. So, they were mostly concerned about bringing God's words to the present situation.

Malachi is the book that contains the most direct speech by God - about 85% of the book consists of words from God to His people, Israel. And, these are not words of comfort! God is unhappy with Israel's lack of devotion and respect. He brings charges/accusations against His people by way of the prophet. They, in turn, deny the accusations and put God to the proof thereof. God then obliges and gives specifics that support His accusations.

In the end, Israel has to choose. If they return to faithful devotion they will be remembered by God on the Day of the LORD, but if they do not repent they will be destroyed on that day. It is a sobering message, both for Israel then, and for us today.