Malachi 3:17
Verse
Context
The Book of Remembrance
16At that time those who feared the LORD spoke with one another, and the LORD listened and heard them. So a scroll of remembrance was written before Him regarding those who feared the LORD and honored His name.17“They will be Mine,” says the LORD of Hosts, “on the day when I prepare My treasured possession. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him.18So you will again distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.”
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
jewels-- (Isa 62:3). Literally, "My peculiar treasure" (Exo 19:5; Deu 7:6; Deu 14:2; Deu 26:18; Psa 135:4; Tit 2:14; Pe1 2:9; compare Ecc 2:8). CALVIN translates more in accordance with Hebrew idiom, "They shall be My peculiar treasure in the day in which I will do it" (that is, fulfil My promise of gathering My completed Church; or, "make" those things come to pass foretold in Mal 3:5 above [GROTIUS]); so in Mal 4:3 "do" is used absolutely, "in the day that I shall do this." MAURER, not so well, translates, "in the day which I shall make," that is, appoint as in Psa 118:24. as . . . man spareth . . . son-- (Psa 103:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts,.... That is, such as fear the Lord, and think of him, hereby they are known to be his; and hereafter, in the time referred to, it will be manifest that they are his: they are Christ's already by his Father's gift of them to him; by his own purchase; by the conquests of his grace; and by the voluntary surrender of themselves: but, in the last day, they will be claimed and owned by Christ before his Father and his holy angels; and they will be known to be his, by themselves and others; and there will be no doubt about it, or questioning of it: in that day when I make up my jewels; Christ has some, who are his jewels, or peculiar treasure, as the word (x) here used signifies; who are loved with an everlasting love; chosen in him; redeemed by him; justified by his righteousness; have the graces of his Spirit in them: and will be glorified: they are a peculiar people, separate from all others, and preferred unto them; for whom Christ has the strongest affection, and takes special care of: and there is a time when he will make them up; the number of them is already complete in eternal election; and there was a gathering of them together in Christ at his death; at every conversion there is an addition to them, as his regenerated and sanctified ones; and at death they are received into heaven, into his presence and bosom; and at the last day there will be a collection of them all together. The words may be rendered, even "my jewels in the day that I shall make" (y); or "the day I shall make peculiar": distinct from all others; meaning either the famous Gospel day, made by him the sun of righteousness, in which so many of his jewels are picked up, and brought in; or the day of Jerusalem's destruction, when Christ took care of his jewels, and by the preservation of them showed that they were his, even all that believed in him; so that not one perished that believed in him, when he took vengeance on his enemies, that disbelieved and rejected him. Kimchi refers this to the day of judgment. And I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him; this is a favour not granted to the apostate angels; nor to the old world; nor to the Jewish nation; nor even to the Son of God; but is vouchsafed to his special people: the lives of these are spared, until they are called by grace; and though they are sometimes afflicted and chastised, it is very gently, and in love; their services are accepted, and the imperfections in them overlooked; their sins are pardoned, and they will find mercy at the great day of account; they are used in the most tender manner, not only as a son, an own son, but as an obedient one, for whom the greatest regard is had, and affection shown. (x) "peculium", Munster, Pagninus, Vatablus, Tigurine version, Calvin, Drusius, Junius & Tremellius. (y) "illa die quam facio", so some in Vatablus; "in diem quem ego facio peculium", Cocceius, Burkius.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:17 special treasure: Israel had a privileged status as God’s people; they were his private property.
Malachi 3:17
The Book of Remembrance
16At that time those who feared the LORD spoke with one another, and the LORD listened and heard them. So a scroll of remembrance was written before Him regarding those who feared the LORD and honored His name.17“They will be Mine,” says the LORD of Hosts, “on the day when I prepare My treasured possession. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him.18So you will again distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Five Rules for Holy Living
By A.W. Tozer4.3K23:06Holy LivingGEN 1:27PSA 103:20ISA 43:4MAL 3:17MAT 5:441PE 2:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of praising and blessing the Lord. He highlights various elements of creation such as water, sun, moon, stars, wind, heat, fire, winter, summer, frost, dew, ice, and snow, all of which sing and reflect God's glory. The preacher also mentions that although we cannot physically see God, we can hear Him sing through His creation and feel His presence in our lives. He encourages believers to have a reverent esteem for all things, viewing them as celestial and recognizing the face of Jesus Christ shining through the fallen world. Additionally, the preacher emphasizes the importance of love within the brotherhood of redeemed souls, both on the natural and spiritual planes.
(Through the Bible) Malachi
By Chuck Smith2.0K1:30:14NEH 13:10MAL 3:10MAL 3:13MAL 3:17MAL 4:1MAL 4:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of giving and receiving in accordance with a divine spiritual law. He compares it to the natural laws that govern our universe, such as gravity, which we may not fully understand but still abide by. The preacher emphasizes that giving to God is a spiritual law, and the more we give, the more we will receive from Him. He challenges the listeners to prove God by giving and experiencing the blessings that overflow.
God's Special Treasure
By Chuck Smith1.3K28:40NUM 6:24PSA 36:1MAL 3:17MAT 13:44ROM 1:18ROM 3:13ROM 8:172CO 4:17EPH 1:4EPH 1:7This sermon emphasizes the concept of believers being treasured by God, likened to jewels in His sight. It explores the idea of God valuing His children so much that He considers them His treasure, as seen in Ephesians 1 and Malachi 3. The message highlights the importance of fearing God with reverential awe, engaging in conversations about Him, and understanding the depth of His love and grace towards us through Jesus Christ. It concludes with an invitation to surrender to God and become part of His glorious treasure.
Our Great Hight Priest
By Don McClure1.1K51:48EXO 19:5EXO 28:36ISA 49:15MAL 3:17MAT 5:17HEB 1:1In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the imperfections and struggles of our lives, comparing them to a car that is broken and failing. Despite our flaws, the preacher emphasizes that God sees value in us because He created us. The sermon also highlights the contrast between the people who were worshiping idols outside the tabernacle and the precious stones inside the Holy of Holies. The preacher encourages the audience to recognize their worth and accept God's love and acceptance. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners that one day, they will awaken in the likeness of Christ and share in His eternal life.
Evangelism 02 We Do Not Well
By Welcome Detweiler72638:22MAL 3:17JHN 3:16ACT 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sharing the message of salvation with others. He encourages the audience to take seriously the responsibility of witnessing to others and not neglecting this duty. The speaker shares a personal experience of feeling weary but still making the effort to visit someone and share the gospel, resulting in a positive outcome. He references the command given by Jesus to go into the world and proclaim the gospel, and highlights the early believers' obedience in spreading the message everywhere. The sermon also includes a story from the Bible about a famine in Samaria and how Elisha prophesied that it would end, demonstrating the power of God to provide for His people.
05 the Beauty of the Bride (Song 1:15; 4:7)
By Mike Bickle2453:08The Beauty of GodIdentity in ChristPSA 149:4SNG 1:15SNG 4:7ISA 61:3MAL 3:17MAT 10:42JHN 3:2EPH 1:4PHP 3:211PE 3:4Mike Bickle emphasizes the profound beauty of the bride, representing the people of God, as depicted in the Song of Solomon. He explains that God sees His people as beautiful and beloved, regardless of their flaws, and that this beauty is rooted in His grace and love. Bickle encourages believers to embrace their identity as beautiful in God's eyes and to reject the lies of the enemy that suggest otherwise. He highlights the transformative power of recognizing one's beauty in Christ, which leads to a deeper relationship with God and a more fulfilling life. Ultimately, he reassures that this beauty is eternal and will be fully realized in the resurrection.
You Are Mine!
By Thomas Brooks0God's LoveIdentity in ChristEXO 19:5DEU 32:9ISA 4:5ISA 43:1ISA 43:4JER 12:10MAL 3:17Thomas Brooks emphasizes the profound truth that believers are cherished by God, who created, redeemed, and called them by name. He highlights that each individual is precious in God's sight, valued as His peculiar treasure and honored above all else. Brooks reassures the congregation that God's love and ownership extend to the weakest and lowest among them, affirming their worth and identity in Christ. The sermon draws from Isaiah 43:1, reminding listeners of their unique relationship with God and His unwavering commitment to them.
The Lord's People His Portion
By Charles Finney0God's LoveValue of BelieversDEU 32:9ISA 49:14JER 31:3MAL 3:17Charles Finney emphasizes that God's people are His treasured possession, highlighting the profound love and regard God has for them as expressed in Scripture. He explains that God's love is not capricious but based on good reasons, such as their faith, sincerity, and the sacrifices He has made for them. Finney illustrates that God's people are valuable to Him, not only for their steadfastness in trials but also for their potential for growth and holiness. He encourages believers to recognize their worth in God's eyes, which can help combat feelings of guilt and unworthiness. Ultimately, Finney calls for a deeper understanding of God's love, urging both the faithful and the wayward to return to Him, knowing they are cherished as His own.
Jehovah's Jewels
By Octavius Winslow0God's LoveSpiritual RefinementMAL 3:17EPH 3:18Octavius Winslow's sermon 'Jehovah's Jewels' emphasizes the profound love God has for His saints, whom He refers to as His precious jewels. He reflects on the rarity and value of true believers, highlighting that genuine faith and spiritual experience are not common. Winslow illustrates how believers are polished and refined through trials, becoming more beautiful and precious in God's sight. He reassures that these jewels are carefully guarded by God, destined for glory in His kingdom. The sermon calls for self-examination to ensure one is truly among God's cherished jewels.
Seek to Be a Vessel, Sanctified and Useful for God
By Zac Poonen0MAL 3:17MAT 12:342TI 2:202TI 2:221JN 1:7Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of being a holy vessel for God, highlighting the dual aspect of cleansing in the New Testament: God's cleansing of our sins through Jesus' blood and our responsibility to cleanse ourselves from wrong habits and behaviors. Poonen urges believers to daily cleanse themselves, seeking to be vessels sanctified and useful to God, focusing on spiritual value over mere usefulness in God's work. He warns against youthful lusts and encourages pursuing righteousness and fellowship with those who seek purity to avoid sin and grow in holiness.
On Forgetfulness of God
By Thomas Reade0PSA 9:17PSA 119:11ECC 12:1MAL 3:17MAT 6:331CO 10:31PHP 1:20HEB 11:6Thomas Reade preaches on the dreadful consequences of forgetting God, emphasizing that sin, in all its forms, is an infinite evil that leads to eternal destruction. He urges believers to meditate on God's mercy and to delight in Him, as they are His precious jewels purchased by the blood of Jesus. Reade highlights the importance of having right views and feelings towards God, as forgetfulness of Him is a heinous sin that leads to disorder in one's life. He encourages a heartfelt compliance with seeking God's kingdom first as the best preservative against forgetfulness, enabling believers to walk uprightly and magnify Christ in their lives.
God's Inheritance
By A.W. Pink0Divine RelationshipGod's InheritanceDEU 32:9PSA 94:14PSA 135:4PRO 8:31MAL 3:17ACT 20:281CO 3:16EPH 1:18PHP 1:6REV 21:3A.W. Pink expounds on the profound truth that God's inheritance is found in His people, emphasizing that God chose not the world or angels, but humanity as His special treasure. He illustrates that this inheritance was purposed by God, purchased through Christ's sacrifice, and signifies a deep, eternal relationship where God dwells among His people. Pink highlights that God's people are being beautified and prepared for Him, and that in eternity, God will fully enjoy His inheritance, reflecting His glory through them. The sermon culminates in the awe-inspiring realization that God finds richness in our faith and worship, making us His inheritance.
The Claims of God's Sovereignty and Holiness
By John Gifford Bellett0EXO 25:14EXO 40:34LEV 10:1NUM 1:1DEU 4:242SA 24:10PSA 147:4MAL 3:17HEB 12:28John Gifford Bellett preaches about God's jealousy of His sovereignty and holiness, emphasizing His rights as Lord of the people and the God of their Sanctuary. The chapters in Numbers reflect God's assertion of His title over Israel by carefully counting and knowing each tribe, showcasing His sovereignty and ownership over His people. The separation of the Levites and the house of Aaron highlights God's holiness in the sanctuary, with a deep reverence for the ordained order and mysteries within. These chapters serve as a reminder of God's sovereign power and unapproachable holiness, demanding respect and obedience even from the closest servants and priests.
The Loss of All Things for Christ's Sake
By J.C. Philpot0MAL 3:17MAT 27:44LUK 14:26JHN 14:1JHN 17:21ACT 9:6ROM 7:92CO 4:6PHP 3:81PE 1:18J.C. Philpot preaches about the miraculous grace of God in saving sinners, emphasizing the deep conviction of sin and the need for sovereign grace to rescue souls from destruction. He highlights two contrasting yet equally miraculous instances of God's grace in the thief on the cross and Saul of Tarsus, showcasing the power of God to transform the most hardened hearts. Philpot delves into the Apostle Paul's profound experience of counting all things as loss compared to the excellency of knowing Christ, urging believers to surrender all to win Christ and be found in Him, clothed in the righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
jewels-- (Isa 62:3). Literally, "My peculiar treasure" (Exo 19:5; Deu 7:6; Deu 14:2; Deu 26:18; Psa 135:4; Tit 2:14; Pe1 2:9; compare Ecc 2:8). CALVIN translates more in accordance with Hebrew idiom, "They shall be My peculiar treasure in the day in which I will do it" (that is, fulfil My promise of gathering My completed Church; or, "make" those things come to pass foretold in Mal 3:5 above [GROTIUS]); so in Mal 4:3 "do" is used absolutely, "in the day that I shall do this." MAURER, not so well, translates, "in the day which I shall make," that is, appoint as in Psa 118:24. as . . . man spareth . . . son-- (Psa 103:18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts,.... That is, such as fear the Lord, and think of him, hereby they are known to be his; and hereafter, in the time referred to, it will be manifest that they are his: they are Christ's already by his Father's gift of them to him; by his own purchase; by the conquests of his grace; and by the voluntary surrender of themselves: but, in the last day, they will be claimed and owned by Christ before his Father and his holy angels; and they will be known to be his, by themselves and others; and there will be no doubt about it, or questioning of it: in that day when I make up my jewels; Christ has some, who are his jewels, or peculiar treasure, as the word (x) here used signifies; who are loved with an everlasting love; chosen in him; redeemed by him; justified by his righteousness; have the graces of his Spirit in them: and will be glorified: they are a peculiar people, separate from all others, and preferred unto them; for whom Christ has the strongest affection, and takes special care of: and there is a time when he will make them up; the number of them is already complete in eternal election; and there was a gathering of them together in Christ at his death; at every conversion there is an addition to them, as his regenerated and sanctified ones; and at death they are received into heaven, into his presence and bosom; and at the last day there will be a collection of them all together. The words may be rendered, even "my jewels in the day that I shall make" (y); or "the day I shall make peculiar": distinct from all others; meaning either the famous Gospel day, made by him the sun of righteousness, in which so many of his jewels are picked up, and brought in; or the day of Jerusalem's destruction, when Christ took care of his jewels, and by the preservation of them showed that they were his, even all that believed in him; so that not one perished that believed in him, when he took vengeance on his enemies, that disbelieved and rejected him. Kimchi refers this to the day of judgment. And I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him; this is a favour not granted to the apostate angels; nor to the old world; nor to the Jewish nation; nor even to the Son of God; but is vouchsafed to his special people: the lives of these are spared, until they are called by grace; and though they are sometimes afflicted and chastised, it is very gently, and in love; their services are accepted, and the imperfections in them overlooked; their sins are pardoned, and they will find mercy at the great day of account; they are used in the most tender manner, not only as a son, an own son, but as an obedient one, for whom the greatest regard is had, and affection shown. (x) "peculium", Munster, Pagninus, Vatablus, Tigurine version, Calvin, Drusius, Junius & Tremellius. (y) "illa die quam facio", so some in Vatablus; "in diem quem ego facio peculium", Cocceius, Burkius.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:17 special treasure: Israel had a privileged status as God’s people; they were his private property.