After a long-time spent introducing Malachi’s context we get into the book itself. Right from the start, chapter 1, verse 2, we encounter both an affirmation (God Loves them, and us) and we encounter a problem in interpretation (Love/hate language.) The point is that God reminds them of his calling on their lives through the covenant with Jacob. Through this calling the nation will (finally) say, “Great is the Lord — even beyond the borders of Israel.” We will apply these words to us, today, here, now. 

sermon: How Have You Loved Me? (Malachi 1:2-5) with Pastor David Donaldson