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SERMON NOTES:
Our Merciful and Just God
Malachi 2:17-3:6
The people accuse God of being unjust. (2:17)
God responds by pointing Israel to the future:
God explains that He will prepare Israel for His return. (1a)
God warns that he will purify Israel. (1b-5)
God reminds that He will preserve Israel. (6)
What should we do when we struggle
with the injustices of the world?
1.
2.
3.
study questions:
For the Next Lesson: Malachi 2:17-3:6
Note: We briefly studied this passage last week along with verses 2:10-16. This week we will dig a little deeper.
1. Read verse 2:17. What frustrations do you think caused the Jewish people to say, “Where is the God of justice?” As you consider what is going on in our country and around the world, what injustices would cause you to say, “Where is God? Why isn’t He doing anything about this?” What should our attitude be toward God as we see injustices that bother us?
2. Read verses 3:1. Notice in verse 1 it says the “messenger of the covenant in whom you delight”. What does it mean to delight in something or someone? Do you delight in Jesus? What does delighting in Jesus look like in your life? What should it look like?
3. Read verses 3:2-4. Take some time to review verses 2-4. What will Jesus do when He returns? Now, read Revelation 19:11-21. What will Jesus look like when He returns? Who will be with Him? What will He do? How do you feel about all of this? How does your consideration of Jesus’ second coming influence how you see God? How does it help or hinder you from trusting God to take care of injustices in the world?
4. Read verses 3:5-6. List out the things God will judge from verse 5. What does this list tell you about things that are close to God’s heart? Do you value the same things in your life? How so? What are your taught about God in verse 6? Why is this attribute of God important for the Jews to remember? Why is this attribute important for you to remember?
5. So What. What have you learned or been reminded about God that challenges or encourages you? What is one thing about God that you need to keep in mind more often?