King James Version

What Does Malachi 3:6 Mean?

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

Context

Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the LORD, as in the days of old, and as in former years. former: or, ancient

And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts. oppress: or, defraud

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

Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return?

Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(6) **For I am the Lord, I change not.**—Better, *For I Jehovah change not.* Because it is the Eternal’s unchangeable will that the sons of Jacob, His chosen people, should not perish as a nation, He will purify them by the eradication of the wicked among them, that the remnant (the superior part; see Note on Malachi 2:15) may return to their allegiance. (Comp. Romans 11) Ewald renders the words: *For I, the LORD, have not changed: hut ye sons of Jacob, have ye not altered*? But the last verb does not mean “to alter;” and, moreover, the former translation is exactly in accordance with the wording of the prayer in Ezra 9:14-15.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Malachi. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Malachi 3:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.