Author: Malachi (1:1), meaning “my messenger.” No other details are given.
Date: Approximately 450 BC.
In Ten Words or Less: The Jews have become careless in their attitude toward God.
Details: Prophesying a century after the return from exile, Malachi chastises the Jews for offering “lame and sick” sacrifices (1:8); for divorcing their wives to marry pagan women (2:11, 14); and for failing to pay tithes for the temple (3:8). The Lord was angry with the attitude “It is vain to serve God” (3:14), but He promised to bless the obedient: “Unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings” (4:2).
From Know Your Bible, published by Barbour Publishing, Inc. Used by permission.
