September 26

Today's Reading: Malachi 3:1-18

Like so many prophecies regarding Jesus, this prophecy intertwines His first and second coming. Before His first coming God promised to send a messenger to prepare the way (John the Baptist). That first coming was for the purpose of bringing salvation to God's people

John 3:17 (ESV)
For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

But, as we have pointed out on many occasions previously, HIs second coming will be for the purpose of executing judgment on those who have chosen not to put their faith in Him.

I also want to take a moment to address verse 10. It is often taken out of context to teach that if a person tithes (gives a tenth of their income), God is somehow obligated to bless that person materially. Under the New Covenant we are no longer required to tithe, although that's probably a pretty good guide for a starting point for our giving to God. New Testament believers are exhorted to give generously and cheerfully, not to get a material windfall for themselves, but to further God's kingdom and bless others.