Renewal of Faith (3) – Renewal in the Marriage Covenant

by Rev. Jeremiah Cheung

Malachi 2:10-16

The third round of debate between God and the people of Israel is found in Malachi 2:10-16. in this debate, Good mentions the word “unfaithful” several times.

The NIV translation uses the phrase “breaking faith.” This term does not refer to their religious faith, but fidelity in marriage, that is, they were breaking faith in their marriage.

God wanted the Israelites to renew their marriage covenant. in these seven verses, God rebuked Israel for two forms of sin, and gave them advice.

1. God Rebuked Israel’s Two Sins (10-14)

a. Breaking Faith and Forsaking Righteousness

b. Hypocrisy

2. God’s Advice for Israel (15-16)

a.Godly Offspring

b. Seek to Please God
— First: God hates divorce
— Second: God hates a man’s violence towards his wife