Malachi 3:16-17 Then they that feared the LORD spoke often one to another: and the LORD listened, and heard it… I. THE PEOPLE MENTIONED. By the "fear of the Lord" we are not to understand slavish fear, which dreads the punishment rather than the sin which is the cause of the punishment; but a filial fear; a holy affection in the soul, whereby it is inclined to reverence God, and to approve of His words and ways. This fear is a new covenant blessing, and the gift of God. II. THE EMPLOYMENT THEY WERE ENGAGED IN. "They spake often one to another." Of the love of God; and if they had been Christians, we should have added, of the redemption in Christ, and of the operation of the Spirit. He who has a heart for God, has a mouth to speak for Him, as well as to Him. III. THE HONOUR CONFERRED ON THEM. "The Lord hearkened." This shows God's special regard for them; the notice He takes of them, and His approbation of them. "A book of remembrance was written." In allusion to kings that keep registers (Ezra 4:15). (S. Barnard.) Parallel Verses KJV: Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name. |
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