Malachi 4:6
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
turn . . . heart of . . . fathers to . . . children, &c.--Explained by some, that John's preaching should restore harmony in families. But Luk 1:16-17 substitutes for "the heart of the children to the fathers," "the disobedient to the wisdom of the just," implying that the reconciliation to be effected was that between the unbelieving disobedient children and the believing ancestors, Jacob, Levi, "Moses," and "Elijah" (just mentioned) (compare Mal 1:2; Mal 2:4, Mal 2:6; Mal 3:3-4). The threat here is that, if this restoration were not effected, Messiah's coming would prove "a curse" to the "earth," not a blessing. It proved so to guilty Jerusalem and the "earth," that is, the land of Judea when it rejected Messiah at His first advent, though He brought blessings (Gen 12:3) to those who accepted Him (Joh 1:11-13). Many were delivered from the common destruction of the nation through John's preaching (Rom 9:29; Rom 11:5). It will prove so to the disobedient at His second advent, though He comes to be glorified in His saints (Th2 1:6-10). curse--Hebrew, Cherem, "a ban"; the fearful term applied by the Jews to the extermination of the guilty Canaanites. Under this ban Judea has long lain. Similar is the awful curse on all of Gentile churches who love not the Lord Jesus now (Co1 16:22). For if God spare not the natural branches, the Jews, much less will He spare unbelieving professors of the Gentiles (Rom 11:20-21). It is deeply suggestive that the last utterance from heaven for four hundred years before Messiah was the awful word "curse." Messiah's first word on the mount was "Blessed" (Mat 5:3). The law speaks wrath; the Gospel, blessing. Judea is now under the "curse" because it rejects Messiah; when the spirit of Elijah, or a literal Elijah, shall bring the Jewish children back to the Hope of their "fathers," blessing shall be theirs, whereas the apostate "earth" shall be "smitten with the curse" previous to the coming restoration of all things (Zac 12:13-14). May the writer of this Commentary and his readers have grace "to take heed to the sure word of prophecy as unto a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawn!" To the triune Jehovah be all glory ascribed for ever! Next: Matthew Introduction
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children,.... Or "with" the children, as Kimchi; and Ben Melech observes, that is put for and so in the next clause: and the heart of the children to their fathers; or "with" their fathers; that is, both fathers and children: the meaning is, that John the Baptist should be an instrument of converting many of the Jews, both fathers and children, and bringing them to the knowledge and faith of the true Messiah; and reconcile them together who were divided by the schools of Hillell and Shammai, and by the sects of the Sadducees and Pharisees, and bring them to be of one mind, judgment, and faith, and to have a hearty love to one another, and the Lord Christ; see Mat 3:5; see Gill on Luk 1:17. The Talmudists (t) interpret this of composing differences, and making peace. Lest I come and smite the earth with a curse; the land of Judea; which, because the greater part of the inhabitants of it were not converted to the Lord, did not believe in the Messiah, but rejected him, notwithstanding the preaching and testimony of John the Baptist, and the ministry and miracles of Christ, it was smitten with a curse, was made desolate, and destroyed by the Roman emperors, Vespasian and Adrian, as instruments doing what God here threatened he would do; for not the whole earth is intended, as the Targum and Abarbinel suggest; but only that land, and the people of it, are intended, to whom the law of Moses was given; and to whom Elias, or John the Baptist, was to be sent; and to whom he was sent, and did come; and by whom he was rejected, and also the Messiah he pointed at; for which that country was smitten with a curse, and remains under it to this day. (t) Massachet Ediot, c. 8. sect. 7. Next: Matthew Introduction
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:6 His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children: Two key themes prominent in Malachi and the Old Testament prophets in general are the turning of hearts and the ministry of reconciliation. Turn is the Old Testament term for repentance and indicates a complete change of loyalties. Turning toward God results in reconciliation between generations (see 2 Cor 5:18-20). • strike the land with a curse: The word curse implies total destruction (see Deut 7:26; 1 Sam 15:18; Zech 14:11). The people of Israel who did not respond to God’s prophet would face utter oblivion, as had been the fate of their Canaanite predecessors (e.g., Josh 6:17).
Malachi 4:6
The Day of the LORD
5Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and awesome Day of the LORD. 6And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the hearts of the children to their fathers. Otherwise, I will come and strike the land with a curse.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Changing the Heart of a Rebel
By S.M. Davis4.7K1:03:142SA 15:12SA 15:6PRO 23:26MAL 4:6MAT 6:33LUK 1:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of parents being committed to long-term change rather than seeking quick fixes when dealing with rebellious children. The speaker shares that while these principles can bring about positive changes in children, there is a danger of parents becoming complacent once they see initial improvements. The speaker references Matthew 12:43-45, which talks about an unclean spirit leaving a person temporarily but returning later to find the house clean. The speaker also highlights the influence of various external factors, such as media, friends, and idols, on children's hearts and behavior. The sermon concludes with a personal testimony of a family's journey in restoring their child's heart through intentional actions and the work of God.
Ask Jesus Now for the Things That You Need
By Carter Conlon2.8K53:37MAL 4:6MAT 7:7JHN 16:24This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking God for the strength and courage needed to live a life that reflects Christ. It highlights the need to ask God for help in changing our hearts, attitudes, and priorities to align with His will. The message urges believers to seek first the kingdom of God, to love others as Christ does, and to be willing to endure hardships for the sake of the gospel.
Finishing the Course - 02 Filling Up What Is Lacking
By Zac Poonen2.6K1:00:47Finishing Well2SA 6:151CH 13:9MAL 4:6MAT 6:331CO 12:121CO 12:16In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of people attending church meetings but not actively seeking fellowship with others. He emphasizes the importance of filling up what is lacking in our spiritual lives. The speaker uses examples from the Old Testament, such as Hagar and Sarah, to illustrate the dangers of pride and comparison. He also highlights the need to love the truth, including recognizing our own defects, and the importance of being part of the body of Christ and relying on others. The sermon concludes with a call to take seriously the areas where we need to fill up what is lacking and to grow spiritually.
Cranbrook Fellowship 2000 Albert Zehr and Russell Stendal Tape 3 (First Portion)
By George Warnock2.1K35:36SeminarMAL 4:6MAT 6:33ROM 12:1EPH 5:26HEB 3:15HEB 4:12HEB 11:39In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of young people focusing on God's great mercy and demonstrating His keeping power. He urges them not to waste time experimenting with the world, as the Lord is going to move quickly. The speaker references two verses, one about the hearts of fathers turning to their children and another from Hebrews 11, highlighting the faith of those who did not receive what was promised. The sermon also addresses the concept of discipleship and the need to fully embrace the cross, acknowledging that it is not easy but can be accomplished through the quickening word of God. The speaker also challenges parents to examine how they relate to their children, urging them to see them as gifts from God rather than using them to build their own egos.
The Significance of Jesus Christ Crucified, Risen, and Exalted
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K1:07:51Christ CrucifiedPSA 119:18ISA 6:1MAL 4:6MAT 16:24JHN 12:212CO 4:6GAL 6:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the theme of the closing of the book in failure in the Old Testament. He explains that the New Testament introduces a new humanity brought in by Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes that the Apostle Paul had a profound vision of Jesus Christ, which revealed four important things to him. These include the place and destiny of humanity after Christ, the nature of a life ministry during the period between Jesus' ascension and second coming, and the fact that Satan's activities can be used by God for His purposes. The sermon concludes by highlighting the failure of the old humanity in the Old Testament and the transition to the new humanity in the New Testament.
Letting Go of Condemnation and Judging
By Albert Zehr2.0K56:00CondemnationJER 31:34JOL 2:25MAL 4:6MAT 6:33JHN 15:13ROM 7:7HEB 8:10In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the state of the hearts of believers and their longing for God to move in their lives. He shares a personal experience of listening to a tape of his son preaching and being moved by the conviction and authenticity of his words. The speaker then attends a fellowship where he is prompted by the Holy Spirit to share a message with the congregation. He emphasizes the importance of experiencing a lasting, eternal work of God in our lives rather than just having temporary moments of enjoyment or activity in church.
The Glory of Christ in You
By George Warnock1.9K1:13:23Christ In YouEXO 3:2MAL 4:6LUK 12:42LUK 16:10JHN 10:271CO 2:9In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a family gathering where the children learned about God's ways. He emphasizes the importance of being faithful in both small and big things, as it determines whether God will entrust us with true riches. The speaker also discusses the need to know God's voice and His plan for our lives, especially for young people who may be struggling. He concludes by highlighting the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and the importance of bearing witness to the truth in our lives.
The Centrality of Prayer
By Stephen Kaung1.8K1:11:09PrayerISA 6:1MAL 4:6MAT 4:10MAT 6:9MAT 22:37ROM 8:15REV 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of sanctifying God and accepting what He has done. The commandments in both the Old and New Testaments are related to the holiness of God. Jesus summarizes the commandments by stating that the most important one is to love God with all our heart, mind, strength, and soul. The preacher explains that sin entered the world and caused disintegration and void, but God did not give up and restored the earth to make it habitable again.
Cranbrook Fellowship 2000 Tape 3 (Middle Portion With Song at End)
By George Warnock1.5K40:06SeminarISA 62:1MAL 4:6GAL 5:22HEB 3:151PE 4:172PE 1:4REV 5:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of responding to God's visitation and not hardening our hearts. He highlights the need for gratitude for past blessings and anticipation for future ones. The preacher also emphasizes the significance of reconciliation among believers as a precursor to revival. He uses the analogy of a wheat field to illustrate the process of growth and maturity in the spiritual realm. Ultimately, the preacher emphasizes the need for the church to be prepared and to radiate the same light that was in Jesus to bring forth salvation to all nations.
Cranbrook Fellowship 2000 Tape 3 (Middle Portion)
By George Warnock1.4K37:02SeminarPSA 95:10ISA 62:1MAL 4:6JHN 14:6ACT 7:55EPH 5:27HEB 3:15In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a recent visitation from God and emphasizes the importance of not hardening our hearts to His voice. The speaker also highlights the need for gratitude for past blessings and hope for future ones. They believe that a great work of cleansing and reconciliation is taking place among believers, which is a precursor to revival. The speaker emphasizes the importance of preparing the church and allowing the light of Jesus to radiate from it, so that all nations may see the salvation of God.
Repentance and a Heavenly Kingdom
By Zac Poonen1.4K56:32RepentanceMAL 4:6MAT 1:21MAT 3:2MAT 6:33MRK 4:12MRK 9:1ACT 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having the right goal in life. He advises young people to prioritize seeking God and His kingdom above worldly pursuits. The speaker warns against drifting through life without a sense of direction, using the analogy of a piece of wood floating aimlessly in the sea. He highlights the significance of putting God first in all areas of life, including finances, and emphasizes that those who enter into the new covenant are those who prioritize God above all else. The sermon concludes with a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and the pursuit of material possessions.
Monogamatic Marriage
By John Alexander Dowie1.3K03:32EXO 20:14PSA 127:3MAL 4:6MAT 19:6ROM 13:41CO 6:18EPH 5:31In this sermon, the preacher strongly condemns the social system that pretends to be monogamous but is actually filled with mischief. He emphasizes the importance of fathers taking responsibility for their children and criticizes those who hunt for slaves and deceive women, showing no care for their offspring. The preacher calls for a change in society, urging people to turn their hearts towards these poor, wandering children. He advocates for monogamous marriage as God's original plan and calls for the enforcement of laws against polygamy and immorality.
Behold 04-Your God!
By Neil Dougal1.2K48:56ISA 40:1JER 31:31MAL 4:6MAT 1:23MRK 1:3PHP 4:71JN 1:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the enduring power of the Bible despite the challenges it faces. He mentions how dynasties rise and fall, storms of hate surround it, and attempts are made to explain it away, but the Bible remains steadfast. The preacher also discusses the importance of the deity of Jesus and the cleansing power of his blood. He encourages the audience to fortify their minds and hearts with the peace of God. The sermon concludes with a call to comfort and prepare the way for the Lord, as described in the book of Isaiah.
My Home, God's Calm or My Chaos
By Faith Cosby1.1K58:36Home LifePRO 17:9PRO 22:6MAL 4:6EPH 5:21EPH 5:25JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker shares personal anecdotes and experiences to encourage wives in difficult marriage situations. She emphasizes the importance of having a willing heart and faith in God's ability to work miracles in their husbands' lives. The speaker also advises wives to listen to their husbands and help them face their faults and failures without making excuses for them. She highlights the significance of the family unit and warns against the destructive influence of Satan on families. Overall, the sermon aims to provide hope and guidance to wives facing challenges in their marriages.
Honor Your Father and Mother
By Roy Daniel96819:06EXO 20:12MAL 4:6MAT 6:33JHN 14:31EPH 6:12TI 3:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of honoring and obeying parents. He shares anecdotes of children being disobedient and disrespectful towards their parents. He urges those who are disobedient to come to Jesus and repent. The preacher also highlights the example of Jesus, who honored both his earthly parents and his heavenly Father through his obedience. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the last words of the Old Testament, which call for the turning of hearts between fathers and children.
Spiritual Blessing Defined
By Stephen Kaung8631:13:32MAL 4:6MAT 6:33EPH 1:3In this sermon, the speaker divides the sermon into three parts: the glory of God's grace, the riches of God's grace, and the praise of God's glory. The first part emphasizes that spiritual blessings are a matter of grace, freely given by God. The speaker warns against the example of the children of Israel, who were blessed but often rebelled against God and faced curses. The second part highlights the richness of God's grace, demonstrated through redemption through the blood of Jesus. The final part discusses how the Old Testament served as types and shadows, but with the coming of Jesus, the reality of God's grace and glory was revealed.
Ruth - Part 6
By John McGregor79538:33RuthGEN 29:31RUT 4:6RUT 4:13MAL 4:6MAT 6:33LUK 1:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a godly heritage and how it can still happen today. Despite the challenges and distractions of the world, the preacher encourages listeners to trust in God and allow Him to work in their lives. The preacher shares personal experiences and examples of how God's plan can lead to something good. The sermon also highlights the significance of prioritizing God and His word in our lives, as demonstrated by the preacher's grandfather who would gather the family to read the Bible together.
Old Men Shall Dream Dreams
By Carter Conlon60636:57PSA 71:18PSA 145:4PRO 17:6ISA 46:4JOL 2:28MAL 4:6MAT 7:7ACT 2:172TI 1:7This sermon from Acts chapter 2 emphasizes the power of older individuals to dream divine dreams and speak into the lives of the next generation. It highlights the importance of grandparents and older leaders in imparting wisdom, divine revelations, and hope to the youth. The message encourages older individuals to use their voices to break the curse of sin and make a lasting impact on their families and communities.
Preparing for Revival
By John Franklin59052:24MAL 4:6LUK 1:78LUK 3:7LUK 3:15LUK 7:27In this sermon, the preacher discusses the role of John the Baptist in preparing the people for the coming of the Lord. John preached a baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, urging people to prepare the way for the Lord. The preacher emphasizes the need for believers to examine their belief systems and make necessary changes in order to be prepared for revival. He also highlights the importance of bearing good fruit and the consequences of not doing so. The sermon concludes with the message that God stirs his people to get them ready for revival and that believers must ask themselves what they need to do to align with God's agenda.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 31
By Don Courville34530:08Radio ShowMAL 4:6MAT 6:33In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of fathers reading the Word of God to their families on a daily basis. He believes that this is the key to seeing a mighty work of God in our land. The speaker also discusses the correlation between children turning away from God and the lack of reading the Word of God with their families. He encourages fathers to prioritize this practice and not be discouraged if they forget or miss a day. Additionally, the speaker shares a true story about a man named Bill who experienced marital difficulties but found restoration and purpose through learning and applying the Word of God.
Knowing God's Glory
By Brian Guerin31:06:10Generational RelationshipsGod's GloryJOL 2:28MAL 4:6Brian Guerin emphasizes the significance of knowing God's glory, particularly in the context of the relationship between fathers and sons, both spiritually and physically. He shares personal experiences and prophetic dreams that illustrate the importance of capturing and solidifying the spiritual harvest in this generation. Guerin encourages the congregation to remain open to the manifestations of God's glory, which may come in various forms, including signs and wonders, and stresses the need for cooperation between generations to fully embrace and experience God's presence. He highlights that the knowledge of God's glory will cover the earth, urging the church to welcome and honor the diverse ways God chooses to reveal Himself.
7. Where Are the Men?
By Denny Kenaston12SA 23:1PRO 22:6ISA 3:1LAM 2:19MAL 4:6EPH 5:251TI 3:1Denny Kenaston preaches about the importance of men rising up to walk in God's ways, challenging them to be mature, financially stable, loving husbands, wise fathers, and dynamic leaders filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the need for men to acknowledge their shortcomings, prioritize their relationship with God, and be the spiritual leaders in their homes, following the example of David and the Jewish tradition of blessing their children. The sermon calls for a revival that transforms homes and urges men to accept the challenge of spiritually mature manhood.
About Your Father.
By J.R. Miller0FatherhoodHonor and Respect for ParentsEXO 20:12DEU 6:6PSA 103:13PRO 1:8PRO 4:1PRO 22:6MAL 4:6EPH 6:4COL 3:211TH 2:11J.R. Miller emphasizes the often-overlooked role of fathers in the upbringing of children, arguing that while mothers are celebrated for their nurturing qualities, fathers also play a crucial part in providing strength, stability, and material support. He calls for recognition of the father's influence, highlighting their sacrifices and the moral and practical lessons they impart. Miller encourages children to reflect on their fathers' contributions and to honor them with love and respect, as both parents share the responsibility of raising their children. He reminds us that the commandment to honor our parents applies equally to fathers, who deserve acknowledgment for their hard work and dedication. Ultimately, Miller urges a balanced appreciation of both maternal and paternal roles in family life.
Spiritual Fathers and Sons
By Albert Zehr0PRO 4:5MAL 4:6MAT 20:261CO 4:15REV 2:6Albert Zehr preaches about the importance of bridging the generational gap within families and the church to experience God's blessings. He emphasizes the cry for spiritual fathers and mothers, highlighting the need for understanding, love, and guidance for the younger generation. Through heartfelt prayers and blessings, the sermon portrays the deep longing for connection and healing between generations. The dilemma of fatherlessness, generational disconnect, and the need for intergenerational healing are addressed, urging for restoration and renewal in relationships. Practical steps, models of fathering, and the significance of spiritual mothers are discussed to foster unity, understanding, and mutual respect among different generations.
The Medes and the Persians
By John F. Walvoord0EZR 1:1NEH 2:8ISA 13:17JER 25:25DAN 2:39DAN 8:3MAL 4:6John F. Walvoord delves into the historical rise and fall of the Medes and the Persians, emphasizing their significant background in Biblical history spanning over two hundred years. The Medes and the Persians, as prophesied by Isaiah and Jeremiah, played a crucial role in the downfall of Babylon and the restoration of Jerusalem. Daniel's prophecies accurately foretold the emergence and conquests of the Medo-Persian Empire, highlighting their dominance in the Middle East. The reign of the Medes and the Persians paved the way for Israel's partial restoration under the leadership of figures like Cyrus, Darius, and Artaxerxes, setting the stage for the coming of the Messiah.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
turn . . . heart of . . . fathers to . . . children, &c.--Explained by some, that John's preaching should restore harmony in families. But Luk 1:16-17 substitutes for "the heart of the children to the fathers," "the disobedient to the wisdom of the just," implying that the reconciliation to be effected was that between the unbelieving disobedient children and the believing ancestors, Jacob, Levi, "Moses," and "Elijah" (just mentioned) (compare Mal 1:2; Mal 2:4, Mal 2:6; Mal 3:3-4). The threat here is that, if this restoration were not effected, Messiah's coming would prove "a curse" to the "earth," not a blessing. It proved so to guilty Jerusalem and the "earth," that is, the land of Judea when it rejected Messiah at His first advent, though He brought blessings (Gen 12:3) to those who accepted Him (Joh 1:11-13). Many were delivered from the common destruction of the nation through John's preaching (Rom 9:29; Rom 11:5). It will prove so to the disobedient at His second advent, though He comes to be glorified in His saints (Th2 1:6-10). curse--Hebrew, Cherem, "a ban"; the fearful term applied by the Jews to the extermination of the guilty Canaanites. Under this ban Judea has long lain. Similar is the awful curse on all of Gentile churches who love not the Lord Jesus now (Co1 16:22). For if God spare not the natural branches, the Jews, much less will He spare unbelieving professors of the Gentiles (Rom 11:20-21). It is deeply suggestive that the last utterance from heaven for four hundred years before Messiah was the awful word "curse." Messiah's first word on the mount was "Blessed" (Mat 5:3). The law speaks wrath; the Gospel, blessing. Judea is now under the "curse" because it rejects Messiah; when the spirit of Elijah, or a literal Elijah, shall bring the Jewish children back to the Hope of their "fathers," blessing shall be theirs, whereas the apostate "earth" shall be "smitten with the curse" previous to the coming restoration of all things (Zac 12:13-14). May the writer of this Commentary and his readers have grace "to take heed to the sure word of prophecy as unto a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawn!" To the triune Jehovah be all glory ascribed for ever! Next: Matthew Introduction
John Gill Bible Commentary
And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children,.... Or "with" the children, as Kimchi; and Ben Melech observes, that is put for and so in the next clause: and the heart of the children to their fathers; or "with" their fathers; that is, both fathers and children: the meaning is, that John the Baptist should be an instrument of converting many of the Jews, both fathers and children, and bringing them to the knowledge and faith of the true Messiah; and reconcile them together who were divided by the schools of Hillell and Shammai, and by the sects of the Sadducees and Pharisees, and bring them to be of one mind, judgment, and faith, and to have a hearty love to one another, and the Lord Christ; see Mat 3:5; see Gill on Luk 1:17. The Talmudists (t) interpret this of composing differences, and making peace. Lest I come and smite the earth with a curse; the land of Judea; which, because the greater part of the inhabitants of it were not converted to the Lord, did not believe in the Messiah, but rejected him, notwithstanding the preaching and testimony of John the Baptist, and the ministry and miracles of Christ, it was smitten with a curse, was made desolate, and destroyed by the Roman emperors, Vespasian and Adrian, as instruments doing what God here threatened he would do; for not the whole earth is intended, as the Targum and Abarbinel suggest; but only that land, and the people of it, are intended, to whom the law of Moses was given; and to whom Elias, or John the Baptist, was to be sent; and to whom he was sent, and did come; and by whom he was rejected, and also the Messiah he pointed at; for which that country was smitten with a curse, and remains under it to this day. (t) Massachet Ediot, c. 8. sect. 7. Next: Matthew Introduction
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:6 His preaching will turn the hearts of fathers to their children: Two key themes prominent in Malachi and the Old Testament prophets in general are the turning of hearts and the ministry of reconciliation. Turn is the Old Testament term for repentance and indicates a complete change of loyalties. Turning toward God results in reconciliation between generations (see 2 Cor 5:18-20). • strike the land with a curse: The word curse implies total destruction (see Deut 7:26; 1 Sam 15:18; Zech 14:11). The people of Israel who did not respond to God’s prophet would face utter oblivion, as had been the fate of their Canaanite predecessors (e.g., Josh 6:17).