Jacob I Have Loved… (Mal. 1)

There are six disputations in Malachi. Each disputation begins with an assertion from the LORD, the expected challenge from the accused ("But you say..."), and the LORD's answer – through his prophet – vindicating God's actions and warning of his judgment against those who oppose him.

The book opens with a declaration of God's love for his people – and ends with a promise of blessing for those who fear him – and judgment for those who oppose him. The 2nd and 5th disputations focus on worship. And the central disputations (the 3rd and 4th) focus on the moral and ethical lapses of the people. But the first one concerns Edom...