Malachi 2 - James Nisbet's Church Pulpit Commentary

A CORRUPT PRIESTHOOD

‘O ye priests!’

Malachi 2:1

I. In contrast with the disgraceful traits which the prophet had described as characteristic of the priesthood, he proceeds to paint with a few bold touches the noble priest whose burning zeal for God’s honour averted His wrath from the people, and secured for himself and his seed after him the covenant of an everlasting priesthood (Numbers 25:10-13).

II. The prophet next turns to reprove those who had put away their Jewish wives and had contracted marriages with foreigners.

III. The Jews seem to answer the prophet by pointing to their comparative prosperity.