SERMON DISCUSSION GUIDE

A Refiner's Fire - Who Can Stand?
Malachi 2:17-3:5

(Rev. Erik Veerman)

Have you ever questioned God's justice?

Although they had returned from exile, the people of Israel had not yet experienced a full return to God and His blessings nor full vindication against their enemies. The kingdom of the Messiah was still yet to come. In response to Israel's frustration with God, God reminded them of His promise that He would bring the Messiah. Four hundred years later, John the baptist would come baptizing the people in preparation for the Christ who would baptize the people with the Holy Spirit and fire. And the result would be pure worship and obedience as well as final judgment on the enemies of God and His people.

The church is the result of Christ's judgment and purifying work on the cross. In Christ, we experience the blessings of the kingdom of God by the Spirit who is purifying us of sin rather than judging us. But there is more to come. We must wait patiently and trust rather than judge the God of justice. He will bring the full visible expression of His kingdom by punishing His enemies and vindicating His people.

Application Questions:

  1. What were the people of Israel disputing in this section? What historical circumstances (after the return from exile) were driving their complaint? Do you ever think or say the same things?
  2. What does God say He will do? When is this fulfilled and how (see Mark 1:1-8)?
  3. Why is the work of Christ described like a refiners fire and a fullers soap? What is the result in verses 3-4? What about in verse 5? What is the difference between these two groups?

Scriptures for Further Study:
Revelation 15:1-4, Isaiah 1:16-18, Isaiah 40:1-5, Matthew 11:1-14