Malachi 3:13-18 | The Way of Scripture

Malachi 3:13-18

Why does the scroll of remembrance answer the claim that serving God is futile?

Berean Standard Bible

13 “Your words against Me have been harsh,” says the LORD. “Yet you ask, ‘What have we spoken against You?’ 14 You have said, ‘It is futile to serve God. What have we gained by keeping His requirements and walking mournfully before the LORD of Hosts? 15 So now we call the arrogant blessed. Not only do evildoers prosper, they even test God and escape.’” 16 At that time those who feared the LORD spoke with one another, and the LORD listened and heard them. So a scroll of remembrance was written before Him regarding those who feared the LORD and honored His name. 17 “They will be Mine,” says the LORD of Hosts, “on the day when I prepare My treasured possession. And I will spare them as a man spares his own son who serves him. 18 So you will again distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not.”

What is the context?

The harsh complaint evaluates service to God by immediate profit and visible outcomes. Arrogant people appear blessed, and evildoers seem to escape.

Those who fear the Lord speak together, and He listens. A scroll of remembrance is written concerning those who honor His name.

The Lord calls them His treasured possession and promises the care of a father toward a serving son. Their faithfulness has not been overlooked.

The final distinction between righteous and wicked answers the complaint without pretending that every present outcome already displays it. The next chapter describes the coming day that makes the difference plain.

How is this passage commonly understood?

Wesley treats the book as a human way of describing God’s remembrance and reads the fullest vindication toward final judgment and eternal life. His older wording jewels emphasizes the value of the people whom the BSB calls a treasured possession.

What is our position?

We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.

Where can I study this further?

No deeper study linked yet.

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