Who Can Stand When God Judges? Series

Sermon Series on Malachi #6

Who can stand when God Judges?

Malachi 3:1-5

This chapter deals with God’s judgment let’s look at three things in God judgment.

Once again God’s judgment begins again with a message of love as in chap. 1

God knew that there would be 400 years of silence but he left a promise here in verse 1 “I will send my messenger”, the last prophet would be John 400 years later. Prophets then would no longer be needed because of the priesthood of every believer.

1. God’s provision (verse 1)

A. God provides a messenger (we know this to be John the Baptist)

a. All 4 gospels tell us about John the Baptist.

b. How was John preparing the way? What was his ministry? Or any other prophet’s? Matthew 3:8 tells us. Repentance! God refuses to work in our hearts until we are broken and repentant.

B. God still gives us messengers today. And it is not only the Pastor. It is also a mother or a father or a child it could be a neighbor, or co-worker. It is you!

Verse 2 asks the question "who can stand in that day of the Lord?"

2. God’s perfecting (verse 2-4)

A. “Like a refiners fire.” When the refiner can see his own image… James 1:2-4

B. “Like launders soap.” It says that Jesus is going to be like Tide He’s going to get the stain out.

Why does God do this and why should we rejoice when He does? (Verse 3b)

3. God’s preparation (verses 4-5)

Even though God grants His mercy he will not be slow in judging those who reject His forgiveness and His son

God does all this to prepare us for His return.

A. Prepares us to be pleasing to Him.

B. Just like it used to be. Remember when you first got saved and the Joy that filled your soul? Have you lost that joy?

How about when you were kids and Dad called the family together and asked the fearful question “who did this?” if you were innocent you had nothing to fear for your self however it is still fearful because you knew someone will receive judgment.