Malachi
Faithfulness, Coming Messenger
Malachi Bible Book Overview
This is the final word of the Old Testament. Written about 100 years after the return from exile, the excitement has worn off. The people offer lame animals as sacrifices and cheat on their spouses. Malachi exposes the coldness of their hearts and ends with a cliffhanger, promising that Elijah will come to prepare the way for the Lord.
This sets the stage for 400 years of silence, which is finally broken by the arrival of the King in the Gospel of Matthew.
Key Details
lightbulbMalachi
c. 450-430 B.C.
Faithfulness, Coming Messenger
“See, I will send the prophet Elijah to you before that great and dreadful day of the LORD comes.”
Malachi 4:5
The final Old Testament prophet, writing about 400 years before Christ.
FAQ
What is Malachi about?expand_more
Malachi is a Minor Prophet. It delivers focused prophetic messages—often urgent and practical—calling for repentance and renewed trust in God.
How should I read Malachi?expand_more
Malachi has 4 chapters. You can read it in one sitting, or take 1 chapter per day. Use the outline sections on this page to follow the flow, and keep the key verse (Malachi 4:5) in mind as an anchor.
What should I focus on in Malachi?expand_more
Watch for these themes: Faithfulness, Coming Messenger. Also notice how key characters (Malachi) shape the story and how the message connects to the broader biblical narrative.
Structure & Outline
arrow_forwardGod's Love Questioned
Chapter 1
arrow_forwardUnfaithful Priests and People
Chapters 2–3
arrow_forwardDay of the Lord
Chapter 4