Malachi 3:17-18

The Essential 100® Bible Challenge is a simple tool to read through the Big Story of God's Word. The reading plan is based on 50 Old Testament and 50 New Testament passages. Continue with the tenth part "The Prophets." ®Produced by American Bible Society in partnership with Scripture Union, Inc.

We live in a time when communication is easier than ever before. We can text, email, Facetime, Message or Snapchat. No one person is farther away than your smartphone. But have we lost intimacy to electronics? And have our conversations with God become more impersonal and less earnestly seeking? Read on to discover what happens when we pray wholeheartedly.

Following the prophecy of Malachi—the final book of the Old Testament—God's chosen people endured over 400 years of silence as they awaited the arrival of the Messiah. His words held immense weight for the Jews of his day. So, too, should they for the church today. This 6-day study delves into the key points of Malachi's message to believers—both then and now.

Somberly closing the Old Testament, Malachi shows that a thousand years after Sinai, unfaithfulness, greed, and injustice continue to plague God’s people. Moreover, Malachi’s ministry initiates centuries of prophetic silence. Despite the growing darkness, however, Malachi prophesies a coming messenger who would prepare the way of the Lord. Four hundred years later, a new era of redemption dawned when the cries of John the Baptist echoed in the wilderness.