The Faithful Few Malachi 3:16-18

The Faithful Few Who Were They? A righteous remnant in the midst of apostasy and wickedness (3:5,15,18; 4:1,3) A faithful few in the midst of a wicked majority… Wicked majority in the world (Mt. 7:13; 2 Thess. 2:1ff; 1 Tim. 4:1ff; 2 Tim. 3:1ff) Wicked majority in the local church (Rev. 3:4-5)

The Faithful Few What Did They Do? They feared the Lord (v. 16; 4:2) Not dread or anguish, but respectful and reverential awe (Psa. 111:9-10; Heb. 12:28) Their fear is what caused the faithful few to be faithful and obedient

The Faithful Few What Did They Do? They spoke often one with another (v.16) This speaking was done to encourage and it was done often Fellowship, mutual encouragement, exhortation and support keep the faithful few faithful (Heb. 3:13; 10:25)

The Faithful Few What Did They Do? They thought upon the Lord’s name (v.16) They meditate and reflect upon God’s authority, his work, his word (Psa. 1:1-2; Mt. 6:33; Col. 3:1-3) Not thinking about carnal things (politics, media, fashion, sports, hobbies, jobs, etc.) keeps the faithful few focused and faithful

What Blessings Did They Get from God? The Faithful Few What Blessings Did They Get from God? They were not forgotten (v.16; Lk. 10:20; Phil. 4:3; Rev. 20:12-15) They were made a possession (v.17; Tit. 2:14) They were spared in the day of judgment (v.17; 1 Thess. 1:10) They were vindicated for their faithful service (v.18; 2 Thess. 1:3-10)

Some Encouraging Lessons for Today The Faithful Few Some Encouraging Lessons for Today When the wicked speak against God, the faithful few speak for God When the fires of faithfulness burn low, the coals that are alive should be brought together When the physical around you goes bad, meditate on the spiritual Our Lord will always remember and reward the faithful few