The Great Day of the Lord

In chapter 4:1-16, the coming judgment would be thorough. All evildoers would be completely destroyed, leaving only the believing remnant alive to enjoy God's blessings. Before executing his justice, God would send a prophet to encourage the people to repent in order that they might avoid condemnation and receive blessing. The new Elijah is the same figure as "my messenger" (3:1). The New Testament identifies Elijah with John the Baptist (Matthew17:10-13; Mark 9:11-13; Luke 1:13,17).