Malachi 3:6
Verse
Context
Robbing God
5“Then I will draw near to you for judgment. And I will be a swift witness against sorcerers and adulterers and perjurers, against oppressors of the widowed and fatherless, and against those who defraud laborers of their wages and deny justice to the foreigner but do not fear Me,” says the LORD of Hosts.6“Because I, the LORD, do not change, you descendants of Jacob have not been destroyed. 7Yet from the days of your fathers, you have turned away from My statutes and have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return to you,” says the LORD of Hosts. “But you ask, ‘How can we return?’
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the Lord--Jehovah: a name implying His immutable faithfulness in fulfilling His promises: the covenant name of God to the Jews (Exo 6:3), called here "the sons of Jacob," in reference to God's covenant with that patriarch. I change not--Ye are mistaken in inferring that, because I have not yet executed judgment on the wicked, I am changed from what I once was, namely, a God of judgment. therefore ye . . . are not consumed--Ye yourselves being "not consumed," as ye have long ago deserved, are a signal proof of My unchangeableness. Rom 11:29 : compare the whole chapter, in which God's mercy in store for Israel is made wholly to flow from God's unchanging faithfulness to His own covenant of love. So here, as is implied by the phrase "sons of Jacob" (Gen 28:13; Gen 35:12). They are spared because I am JEHOVAH, and they sons of Jacob; while I spare them, I will also punish them; and while I punish them, I will not wholly consume them. The unchangeableness of God is the sheet-anchor of the Church. The perseverance of the saints is guaranteed, not by their unchangeable love to God, but by His unchangeable love to them, and His eternal purpose and promise in Christ Jesus [MOORE]. He upbraids their ingratitude that they turn His very long-suffering (Lam 3:22) into a ground for skeptical denial of His coming as a Judge at all (Psa 50:1, Psa 50:3-4, Psa 50:21; Ecc 8:11-12; Isa 57:11; Rom 2:4-10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I am the Lord,.... Or Jehovah; a name peculiar to the most High, and so a proof of the deity of Christ, who here speaks; and is expressive of his being; of his self-existence; of his purity and simplicity; of his immensity and infinity; and of his eternity and sovereignty: I change not; being the same today, yesterday, and forever; he changed not in his divine nature and personality by becoming man; he took that into union with him he had not before, but remained the same he ever was; nor did he change in his threatenings of destruction to the Jews, which came upon them according to his word; nor in his promises of his Spirit, and presence, and protection to his people; nor will he ever change in his love and affections to them; nor in the efficacy of his blood, sacrifice, and righteousness; wherefore, as this is introduced to assure the truth and certainty of what is said before, concerning his being a swift witness against the wicked, so also for the comfort of the saints, as follows. The Targum is, "for I the Lord have not changed my covenant.'' Therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed; such who were Israelites indeed, true believers in Christ; these were not consumed when the wicked Jews were, but were directed to leave the city before its destruction, and go to another place, as they did, whereby they were preserved; and so it was, that not one Christian perished in it; See Gill on Mat 24:13 and so it is owing to the unchangeable love, grace, and power of Christ, that none of his perish internally or eternally, but have everlasting life.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:6-12 Malachi’s fifth message echoes the first (1:2-5) by emphasizing God’s faithfulness to his promises. He calls Israel to a similar faithfulness in worship, especially in giving their tithes and offerings. If Malachi is a courtroom drama, the fifth message is the judge’s verdict. The real message is repentance—God wants honest and sincere worship from his people, of which tithing is a symbol.
Malachi 3:6
Robbing God
5“Then I will draw near to you for judgment. And I will be a swift witness against sorcerers and adulterers and perjurers, against oppressors of the widowed and fatherless, and against those who defraud laborers of their wages and deny justice to the foreigner but do not fear Me,” says the LORD of Hosts.6“Because I, the LORD, do not change, you descendants of Jacob have not been destroyed. 7Yet from the days of your fathers, you have turned away from My statutes and have not kept them. Return to Me, and I will return to you,” says the LORD of Hosts. “But you ask, ‘How can we return?’
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
How to Experience Personal Revival
By Andrew Strom29K53:52EXO 34:29PRO 9:10ISA 6:5MAL 3:6MAT 6:33HEB 6:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of experiencing revival in one's life. He explains that revival is a state of continuous, close communion with God. The foundation for revival is total surrender to God, which involves walking in the Spirit and striving for holiness. The speaker also highlights the need to fear God and understand His glory, holiness, and judgments. These four elements - fear of the Lord, deep repentance, hatred of sin, and total surrender - are essential for experiencing revival in one's life.
"Old Fashioned Hell Fire Preaching"
By Leonard Ravenhill8.6K00:52DEU 28:11CH 13:9PRO 3:5MAL 3:6HEB 13:8This sermon emphasizes the danger of trying to modernize or improve upon the ways of God, likening it to the mistake of trying to steady the Ark of God with human efforts. It highlights the importance of embracing traditional, foundational truths like baptism and old-fashioned hellfire preaching, as they carry the power and presence of God. Obedience to God's ways leads to success and blessings.
(Deeper Waters) Session 3 - the Habitation of God
By David Ravenhill6.6K1:21:22GEN 8:13EXO 25:8ISA 6:3MAL 3:62CO 6:14EPH 1:17REV 4:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by describing his arrival at a new home and how he can immediately discern certain characteristics about the people living there. He then moves on to discuss the book of Revelation, specifically focusing on chapter 4. He explains that John, the author of Revelation, was in the Spirit on the Lord's day on the island of Patmos when he heard a voice like a trumpet calling him to come up to heaven. The speaker emphasizes the unchanging nature of God and highlights the continuous worship of the heavenly beings who proclaim the holiness of God day and night.
Attributes of God (Series 2): The Immutability of God
By A.W. Tozer4.8K43:13Attributes of GodMAL 3:6MAT 6:33HEB 6:17JAS 1:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unchanging nature of God and His Word. He highlights that while everything in the world may change, God remains constant. The preacher encourages the audience to turn to Jesus Christ, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. He recommends Jesus as the solution to their problems, the answer to their questions, and the source of life, cleansing, rest, and resurrection. The sermon also acknowledges the concept of change in the physical world and in human behavior, but emphasizes the possibility of transformation through the grace of God.
Other God's Dominion Over Us
By Leonard Ravenhill4.4K1:14:27IdolatryPSA 16:11MAL 3:6MAT 6:33PHP 4:6PHP 4:19HEB 13:8JAS 1:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of water as a symbol of blessing and joy. He refers to the pouring of water from a golden vase during a religious ceremony and highlights Jesus' presence on the last day of this ritual. The preacher also mentions the significance of the temple, which could hold thousands of people, and compares it to modern-day gatherings like sports events. He shares a story about a man questioning the presence of God in the midst of tragedy, and the pastor's response emphasizes that God is always present, even in times of suffering. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that the joy and blessings God offers are permanent and can be found through a personal relationship with Him.
Se Pt4 - the Holiness of God
By Paul Washer4.0K54:48MAL 3:6MAT 4:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing the privilege and honor it is to be in the presence of God. He uses the example of Moses encountering God in the burning bush and how Moses humbled himself and took off his shoes because he was standing on holy ground. The preacher laments that in today's society, God is often portrayed as gentle and peaceful, but we fail to acknowledge His holiness and the need for repentance. He calls for the church in America to repent and stop playing church, emphasizing the need for genuine worship and confession of sin in the presence of God.
(Titus - Part 4): In Hope of Eternal Life Ii
By A.W. Tozer3.9K33:24TitusPSA 121:4ISA 40:28ISA 53:12MAL 3:6LUK 1:372TI 2:13TIT 1:2In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the importance of family night and invites everyone to attend. He then focuses on a passage from the book of Titus, where Paul declares himself as a servant of God and apostle. The preacher highlights the significance of the phrase "in hope of eternal life" and discusses the trustworthiness of God's promises. He also mentions the struggle to believe in these promises and encourages the congregation to have faith. The sermon includes references to various biblical figures and teachings, such as John Flavill's sermon on Isaiah 53:12 and the concept of a covenant between God the Father and Jesus Christ.
His Name -- the Mighty God
By C.H. Spurgeon3.2K39:28PSA 90:2PSA 102:27ISA 9:6MAL 3:6MAT 6:33HEB 13:8REV 1:8In this sermon, preached by Charles Haddon Spurgeon in 1859, he emphasizes the divinity of Jesus Christ. Spurgeon highlights the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection, stating that if the divinity of Christ is not proven, then all the hope and joy believers have in his atoning blood is meaningless. He challenges his audience to examine their beliefs and confess their sins before casting their souls before the omnipotent Jesus. Spurgeon concludes by urging both Christians and sinners to put their trust in Jesus, emphasizing that he is the mighty God who can bear their burdens, forgive their sins, and provide deliverance.
Malachi
By Zac Poonen2.5K53:29MalachiGEN 32:28MAL 2:5MAL 3:6MAL 3:8MAL 3:16MAT 6:33HEB 13:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a deep hatred for sin and living a life of righteousness. He highlights the characteristics of true preachers and prophets in the last days, which include walking with God, living uprightly, and turning people away from sin. The preacher also discusses the coming of John the Baptist and Jesus as messengers of God. He concludes by emphasizing the need for genuine character and godly children, and warns of the day of judgment when the proud will be judged.
We Have Been Taught Not to Discern - Part 6
By Andrew Strom2.3K09:59PRO 9:10ISA 6:1MAL 3:6ROM 1:18HEB 13:8This sermon emphasizes the need to understand the true nature of God, including His wrath and mercy, and the importance of preaching the real Gospel that involves salvation from God's wrath through Jesus. It challenges the modern perception of a friendly, non-wrathful God and calls for a return to a deeper understanding of God's character and the Gospel message.
We Are the Lord's
By Leonard Ravenhill2.1K59:02MAL 3:6LUK 24:49JHN 17:17ROM 12:6ROM 14:1ROM 14:10ROM 15:1In this sermon, Brother Herb emphasizes the importance of discipline and self-control over our physical bodies. He references Romans 12:1-2, which encourages believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices to God. Brother Herb shares a cautionary tale about a young lady who hastily decides to marry a man she knows nothing about, highlighting the importance of making wise decisions. He then draws a parallel between this story and our own bodies, reminding listeners that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be treated with respect and purity. He challenges believers to examine their actions and desires, urging them to align their lives with God's will.
The Solemn Side of Worship
By J. Glyn Owen1.9K42:23WorshipEXO 40:34LEV 10:1MAL 3:6MAT 6:33HEB 12:29In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Aaron and his two sons who were struck down by God's judgment. The speaker emphasizes that God's judgment was not disproportionate to their offense and that it was necessary to deal with the seriousness of their sin. Aaron's composed response to the death of his sons is attributed to a word from God that Moses remembered. The speaker also highlights the importance of living according to God's commandments and emphasizes that God has not changed between the Old and New Testaments.
(Through the Bible) Numbers 21-28
By Chuck Smith1.8K1:29:34GEN 12:2NUM 23:19NUM 23:23MAL 3:6MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker uses a football game as an analogy to explain how God sees our lives. He emphasizes that God's purposes remain steadfast and sure, even though it may appear that He changes His plans. The speaker also mentions the book of the wars of the Lord, which is a missing book in the Bible that describes the wars God fought. The sermon concludes with a reference to a well called Bear, where the Lord provided water for the Israelites.
What Is a Cult
By Ron Carlson1.7K56:26CultsMAL 3:6MAT 24:32CO 11:32CO 11:13HEB 6:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the warning given by Jesus about the increase of false Christs and false prophets in the end times. He emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God and warns against being misled by those claiming to be the Christ. The preacher highlights the significance of the Bible as the ultimate source of truth and authority, even if it contradicts personal beliefs. He also mentions the influence of Eastern philosophy and techniques in leading people astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Jesus Christ.
Plenary Absolution
By C.H. Spurgeon1.7K46:19PSA 103:9PSA 103:12ISA 43:25MAL 3:6MAT 6:33ROM 8:11JN 1:9The sermon transcript focuses on the great gospel truth of the forgiveness of sin. The speaker emphasizes that this truth is precious to believers of all levels of spiritual maturity, as well as to those who are still seeking salvation. The text used in the sermon highlights the peculiarity of this truth, as it does not apply to all mankind but specifically to God's elect. The sermon encourages believers to rejoice in the Lord and to find comfort in the fact that Christ died, rose again, and intercedes for them, securing their forgiveness. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's sinfulness and experiencing repentance and contrition. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the necessity and everlasting freshness of the doctrine of forgiving love.
(Divine Attributes) 07 God's Unchanging Perfections
By Denny Kenaston1.5K55:52Character Of GodPSA 102:27ISA 26:4ISA 55:11MAL 3:6MAT 6:33HEB 13:8JAS 1:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unchanging nature of God in a fast-changing world. He encourages the audience to focus on eternal things and not be attached to the temporary possessions of this world. The preacher also urges the listeners to imitate God's immutability in their own lives. He supports his message with a reference to James 1:17, highlighting that every good and perfect gift comes from God, who does not change or even cast a shadow of turning. The sermon emphasizes the importance of knowing and seeking God above all else.
A Serious Call to Repent and Fully Trust Christ as Lord (Clip)
By Shane Idleman1.3K10:592CH 7:14PSA 23:4ISA 40:31MAL 3:6MAT 6:24LUK 9:23ROM 12:1EPH 5:25JAS 4:81PE 5:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance, surrender, and obedience to God. It discusses the need for something in us to die in order for something new to live, highlighting the significance of submitting to Jesus as both Savior and Lord. The speaker stresses the essential role of emptying ourselves to be filled with the power of the Holy Spirit and the need for spiritual renewal through waiting upon the Lord. The message also addresses the spiritual decay caused by consuming worldly entertainment and the critical role of men in leading their families in godly ways.
The Great "I Am"
By Mariano Di Gangi1.3K32:47Character Of GodGEN 17:7EXO 3:1MAL 3:6MAT 6:33JHN 8:58HEB 13:8REV 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that God is knowable and desires to make himself known to us. He distinguishes between natural revelation, where God reveals himself through the world he has created, and supernatural revelation, where God reveals himself through his word. The speaker highlights the importance of having a proper understanding of God, as it impacts our worldview, ethics, and beliefs about life and death. He acknowledges that our knowledge of God is limited due to our finite nature, but asserts that God reveals himself in ways that we can trust. The sermon references the story of Moses and the burning bush in Exodus 3 as an example of God making himself known to humanity.
Christians Must Perform the Truth - Part 4
By Stephen Olford1.2K1:00:04TruthEXO 23:19LEV 27:30PRO 3:9MAL 3:6MAT 6:332CO 9:6In this sermon, the speaker addresses the topic of giving and tithing. One person shares a testimony of how they continued to tithe even after their income decreased, and God faithfully provided for their needs. The speaker emphasizes the importance of determining our regular commitments and sticking to them, including giving to the local church and missions. The sermon also highlights the significance of giving from a heart of love, as an expression of worship to God.
Freeing Failure
By Paul De Jong1.2K49:00FailureNUM 23:191SA 15:29PSA 102:27ISA 40:8MAL 3:6HEB 13:8JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the unchanging nature of God and how He is always able to do things perfectly. However, the speaker emphasizes that it is us who change. The speaker then shares their personal experience of growing up in a church that had a heart for worshiping God and being all that He wanted them to be. They also talk about having dreams as a child. The sermon concludes with the speaker expressing gratitude for the opportunity to be at Cottonwood Church and encourages the congregation to continue praying for New Zealand.
A Shocking Message to Men! (Clip)
By Shane Idleman1.2K01:52JOS 24:15PRO 22:6MAL 2:16MAL 3:6EPH 5:251TI 3:4This sermon emphasizes the unchanging nature of God as stated in Malachi, highlighting God's declaration of hating divorce and the importance of the family unit. It challenges men to take responsibility for their role in leading and nurturing their families in the ways of the Lord, addressing issues like distractions, addictions, and lack of spiritual leadership that contribute to the spiritual decline of families and society.
(Colossians) 02 Paul Thanks God for the Colossians Part Ii
By Bob Utley1.1K34:10ColossiansMAL 3:6MAT 28:19COL 1:3COL 3:16In this sermon, the speaker focuses on interpreting a specific sentence from the Bible, which spans five verses. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context in order to interpret the scripture accurately. The speaker also highlights the significance of having a positive outlook on life and facing challenges with gratitude and joy, based on the knowledge of God's grace and love. He encourages the audience to embrace their spiritual calling and to constantly bear fruit and increase in their faith.
Attributes of God - Immutability, Faithfulness, Wisdom and Love
By William MacDonald1.1K41:25Attributes of GodGEN 6:6DEU 7:9JOB 12:13PSA 102:24PSA 104:24PSA 119:90LAM 3:22MAL 3:6In this sermon, the speaker marvels at the complexity and design of the human body, particularly the eyes and the brain. He questions how understanding is placed in the mind of man and acknowledges that it is a divine gift from God. The speaker then discusses the concept of love, emphasizing that it is not just a feeling but also practical actions of kindness and consideration towards others. He concludes by highlighting the wisdom of God in the creation of the earth and the natural world, using the example of seagulls and the challenge of converting saltwater into freshwater. Throughout the sermon, the speaker encourages wisdom in listening to godly counsel, accepting what cannot be changed, and finding peace in trusting God's design and plan for our lives.
The Heartbeat of God
By Greg Locke1.0K58:34JON 1:1MAL 3:6HEB 13:82PE 3:9In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a teacher giving advice on how to deliver a sermon effectively. He emphasizes the importance of grabbing people's attention and keeping the sermon concise. The preacher then relates this advice to his own experience of preaching on hell and the topic of America's idea. He concludes by introducing the book of Jonah and highlights its significance as a well-known story from childhood, and promises to explore its four chapters in a brief and impactful manner.
Leviticus 26
By John McGregor92735:02LeviticusLEV 26:2LEV 26:14MAL 3:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the blessings and protection that God provides to those who obey His commandments. The speaker highlights the importance of surrendering to God and experiencing His covenant in a fresh and powerful way. The sermon also emphasizes the need for believers to draw closer to God and desire more of His blessings in their lives. The speaker mentions seven blessings that God pronounces for obedience, including increase, fruitfulness, and multiplication.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the Lord--Jehovah: a name implying His immutable faithfulness in fulfilling His promises: the covenant name of God to the Jews (Exo 6:3), called here "the sons of Jacob," in reference to God's covenant with that patriarch. I change not--Ye are mistaken in inferring that, because I have not yet executed judgment on the wicked, I am changed from what I once was, namely, a God of judgment. therefore ye . . . are not consumed--Ye yourselves being "not consumed," as ye have long ago deserved, are a signal proof of My unchangeableness. Rom 11:29 : compare the whole chapter, in which God's mercy in store for Israel is made wholly to flow from God's unchanging faithfulness to His own covenant of love. So here, as is implied by the phrase "sons of Jacob" (Gen 28:13; Gen 35:12). They are spared because I am JEHOVAH, and they sons of Jacob; while I spare them, I will also punish them; and while I punish them, I will not wholly consume them. The unchangeableness of God is the sheet-anchor of the Church. The perseverance of the saints is guaranteed, not by their unchangeable love to God, but by His unchangeable love to them, and His eternal purpose and promise in Christ Jesus [MOORE]. He upbraids their ingratitude that they turn His very long-suffering (Lam 3:22) into a ground for skeptical denial of His coming as a Judge at all (Psa 50:1, Psa 50:3-4, Psa 50:21; Ecc 8:11-12; Isa 57:11; Rom 2:4-10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I am the Lord,.... Or Jehovah; a name peculiar to the most High, and so a proof of the deity of Christ, who here speaks; and is expressive of his being; of his self-existence; of his purity and simplicity; of his immensity and infinity; and of his eternity and sovereignty: I change not; being the same today, yesterday, and forever; he changed not in his divine nature and personality by becoming man; he took that into union with him he had not before, but remained the same he ever was; nor did he change in his threatenings of destruction to the Jews, which came upon them according to his word; nor in his promises of his Spirit, and presence, and protection to his people; nor will he ever change in his love and affections to them; nor in the efficacy of his blood, sacrifice, and righteousness; wherefore, as this is introduced to assure the truth and certainty of what is said before, concerning his being a swift witness against the wicked, so also for the comfort of the saints, as follows. The Targum is, "for I the Lord have not changed my covenant.'' Therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed; such who were Israelites indeed, true believers in Christ; these were not consumed when the wicked Jews were, but were directed to leave the city before its destruction, and go to another place, as they did, whereby they were preserved; and so it was, that not one Christian perished in it; See Gill on Mat 24:13 and so it is owing to the unchangeable love, grace, and power of Christ, that none of his perish internally or eternally, but have everlasting life.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:6-12 Malachi’s fifth message echoes the first (1:2-5) by emphasizing God’s faithfulness to his promises. He calls Israel to a similar faithfulness in worship, especially in giving their tithes and offerings. If Malachi is a courtroom drama, the fifth message is the judge’s verdict. The real message is repentance—God wants honest and sincere worship from his people, of which tithing is a symbol.