Malachi 1:1

The burden of the word of the LORD to Israel by Malachi.

The book is presented as the burden of the word of the LORD to Israel, delivered by the hand of Malachi. It was given to keep the lessons of the past from being forgotten. It was given to call Israel to keep Jehovah's covenant faithfully. Israel could realize God's blessing only through heartfelt repentance.

As Old Testament prophecy its message concerns the last days. What it describes will surely be fulfilled. Its scenes will soon be witnessed.