The people in Jerusalem are just as corrupt as their ancestors who returned from exile 100 years ago. Malachi confronts their sins, pointing out that Israel cannot be faithful to the covenant God made with them. Yet God will not abandon His people, and promises a Messiah to the remnant who are still faithful to Him. This is the last Israel will hear from God, and 400 years will pass before the appearance of John the Baptist announcing the coming of Jesus.
Governments are an authority instituted and empowered by God., and they are also accountable to God. What then is the Christian’s relationship with their government to be, as citizens of a heavenly kingdom who are ambassadors for Jesus in this world?