Mal 3:7 | TNotes | STEP | 3:7 In the context of covenant relationship, return expresses a change of loyalty on the part of Israel or God. Typically, the term is understood as repentance, a complete change of direction back to God or a total reorientation toward the Lord. The imperative verb conveys urgency and demands an immediate response from the audience. The indictment of insincere worship builds on similar charges in the second disputation (see 1:6-14 ), just as God’s promise to “open the windows of heaven” (3:10 ) affirms his power as “a great king” (see 1:14 ).

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‏ Malachi 3:7

3:7 ^a In the context of covenant relationship, return expresses a change of loyalty on the part of Israel or God. Typically, the term is understood as repentance, a complete change of direction back to God or a total reorientation toward the Lord. The imperative verb conveys urgency and demands an immediate response from the audience. The indictment of insincere worship builds on similar charges in the second disputation (see 1:6-14 ^b), just as God’s promise to “open the windows of heaven” (3:10 ^c) affirms his power as “a great king” (see 1:14 ^d).