As in previous disputations, this pericope begins with the prophet laying an accusation of wrongdoing against the people of Israel (Malachi 2:17a). It is followed by Israel’s request for proof to substantiate that accusation of wrongdoing (Malachi 2:17b). Then the Lord of hosts provides the evidence of wrongdoing (Malachi 2:17c). Finally, there is a larger section in which the Lord of hosts declares what he will do in response to Israel’s wrongdoing. (Malachi 3:1–5). It is unfortunate that Malachi 2:17 is included with the previous chapter, which gives the impression that it belongs to the third disputation. Malachi 2:17 clearly belongs to the fourth disputation, for in Malachi 3:1–5 the Lord responds to Israel's question in Malachi 2:17. Israel asks, Where is the God of justice?
And in Malachi 3:1–5, God responds and says, I’m coming!
It would have been more favourable if the division between chapters 2 and 3 had been inserted after Malachi 2:16, with Malachi 2:17 beginning a new chapter.
17 You have wearied the LORD with your words. But you say, “How have we wearied him?” By saying, “Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and he delights in them.” Or by asking, “Where is the God of justice?”