Malachi 3:7 - 4:6

Malachi 3:7 – 12

1. Even though the Israelites had been disobedient, God is unchanging and is faithful to His people
2. Israelites were given a promise “Return to me, and I will return to you”
3. One way to return is to bring all of the tithe

  The New Testament on Tithe

1. Jesus never abolished the tithe.   Luke 11:42
2.  A tithe is based on proportionate giving and that is still the rule.  1 Corinthians 16:2
3. Paul didn’t command a tithe because he wanted to emphasize willingness rather than constraint.  2 Corinthians 9:7; 2 Corinthians 8:8
4. Paul didn't use the command to tithe because he wanted to emphasize generosity rather than limitation. 2 Corinthians 8:3;  2 Corinthians 9:6
5. Paul didn't use the command to tithe because he wanted to emphasize that much of our getting should be designed for giving. Ephesians 4:28;  1 Timothy5:8 and 6:17-19

  Malachi 3:13 – 4:3

1. The Israelites didn’t think that serving God was worth it
2. There was a strong sense of legalism
3. God wants us to obey, from our heart and in love and faith.
4. There were two groups; those that “feared the Lord” and those that thought serving God wasn’t worth it. 
5. God has called us to give to and serve the church -- Let’s be active participators, not passive bystanders

 Conclusion

1. We don’t need a formula, we need God.
2. Honoring God is coming to Him with all of my messiness and sin, all of who I am, and believing that God is who he says he is. 
3. As I remember who God is, out of a trust and belief in Him, will flow my obedience.