Malachi is using a form of argument comparing the lesser to the greater. If the lesser (an earthly governor) would be insulted by these inferior
gifts, how much more will God, the heavenly King and Sovereign Ruler of the universe, be insulted with the gifts that the priests were offering!
8 When you offer blind animals in sacrifice, is that not evil? And when you offer those that are lame or sick, is that not evil? Present that to your governor; will he accept you or show you favor? says the LORD of hosts.