1. Malachi 1:2 (ESV)
  2. Exposition

Why does the Lord begin this prophetic book by declaring His love for His people?

Malachi 1:2 (ESV)

2 “I have loved you,” says the LORD. But you say, “How have you loved us?” “Is not Esau Jacob’s brother?” declares the LORD. “Yet I have loved Jacob

The covenant that God established with his people is a covenant of love. In Exodus 20:6 God declared that he shows steadfast love to thousands of those who love him and keep his commandments. Love lies at the heart of the relationship between God and His people.