For those participating in the SOAP Bible Reading schedule, here is an introduction to the readings from Malachi that begin today (Taken from GotQuestions.org).

Author: Malachi 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of Malachi as the Prophet Malachi.

Date of Writing: The Book of Malachi was written between 440 and 400 B.C.

Purpose of Writing: The Book of Malachi is an oracle: The word of the Lord to Israel through Malachi (1:1). This was God’s warning through Malachi to tell the people to turn back to God.

Brief Summary: Malachi wrote the words of the Lord to God’s chosen people who have gone astray. In particular the priests were in this group of people that have turned from the Lord. Priests were not treating the sacrifices they were to make to God seriously. Animals with blemish were being sacrificed even though the law stated animals without defect were the proper type of sacrifice to the Lord (Deuteronomy 15:21). The men of Judah were dealing with the wives of their youth treacherously and wondering why God would not accept their sacrifices. Also, people were not tithing like they should of (Leviticus 27:30, 32).

Practical Application: God is not pleased when we do not obey His commands. He will repay those who disregard Him. As for God hating divorce (2:16), God takes the covenant of marriage seriously and He does not want it broken. We are to stay true to the spouse of our youth for a lifetime. God sees our hearts so He knows what our intentions are, nothing can be hidden from Him. He will return and He will be the judge. But if we return to Him, He will return to us (Malachi 3:6).