Malachi's Elijah

  In the last book of the Old Testament Malachi prophesied the coming of Elijah and the work he would do (Malachi 4: 5, 6). Even though he denied he was Elijah in John 1: 21, his denial had reference to the actual person of Elijah. But it is made clear that the prophet had reference to one coming in the spirit and power of Elijah (Luke 1: 17). Jesus settled the matter completely when He identified the Elijah that was to come was John the Baptist (Matthew 17: 11- 13).

  The work of John was unique in that he prepared the way for the coming Messiah. He was to decrease as the Lord was to increase (John 3: 30). The prophecy concerning John is an additional evidence of the divine guidance of affairs in bringing the Savior to the world and shows further that the Scriptures are miraculously inspired of God.