That Great and Dreadful Day Malachi 4:1-5
Delivered to Smith Chapel UMC on July 3, 2011
Part One
Part Two
What I Didn't Say
H, F & B--This would be a great Scripture to preach a little H, F & B (hell, fire and brimstone for you novices). I didn't take the opportunity to do so, but if you ever want to preach it that way, Malachi might be a good place to turn.
While I didn't preach it according to the H, F & B style, I certainly threw in some of the apocalyptic elements to remind us that judgment looms on the horizon. If there is anything that might stimulate us to obedience to the Word of the Lord, I would think imminent judgment would be it.
I ended with the question, "Who else have they got?" In the context, I was asking if there was anyone else but us to share the name of Jesus with those around us. The obvious answer is no. I don't care if you use the old H, F & B style or some more positive and compassionate vehicle. The fact remains that we are the avenue through which the gospel is presented to the masses.
Is the prospect of looming judgment enough to spur us onto a life of witness? I hope so. It seems to be one of the most glaring sparks the Lord left to ignite our hearts into the fire of action.
