Malachi 3:6

For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֛י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אֲנִ֥י

H589

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

For I am the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

לֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

שָׁנִ֑יתִי

H8138

I change

to fold, i.e., duplicate (literally or figuratively); by implication, to transmute (transitive or intransitive)

וְאַתֶּ֥ם

H859

thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

בְּנֵֽי

H1121

not therefore ye sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

יַעֲקֹ֖ב

H3290

of Jacob

jaakob, the israelitish patriarch

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

כְלִיתֶֽם׃

H3615

are not consumed

to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Malachi Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?