My reason for asking is simple, Bro. King. As I work my way through the text, I stumbled at v. 10. I do not mean to say that the other verses were "easy", it is just that my train of thought was derailed by this verse. I slowed down and have been spending some extra time so that I may be able to understand better what the LORD was saying here through Malachi. I find the first part, concerning the closing of the doors, most troublesome. Calvin interprets this to mean that the priests, even in their doorkeeping duties, have utterly failed. I have no problem with that interpretation. I do, however, struggle to see the implication of the adverb rendered "in vain". Some interpret this to mean that the LORD wonders why no priest rose up in indignation over the blatant disregard and disrespect being shown by the Israelites, and allowed by the complacent priesthood. An example of the attitude considered appropriate may perhaps be found in Numbers 25: 1-13. I simply desired to talk with you since perhaps the text and your expositions were still fresh in your mind. You strike me as a pious and diligent student, and I sought your input only as one seeking advice. Thank you for your comments.

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Briant Holley
Grace Reformed Baptist Church;
Husband to Barbara, Father of Alexis, Justin, and Lacey
Silver Creek, MS