Malachi 3:16

Then: i.e. when Malachi had spoken thus unto them, at a time of such apostasy, show us what is possible and practicable in these like days and "perilous times" which are closing this present Dispensation.

feared = revered.

spake. As in Malachi 3:13 .

one to another. Each one with his friend.

and. Note the Figure of speech Polysyndeton , App-6 .

hearkened, and heard. As He heard the groaning of Israel (Exodus 2:23 , Exodus 2:24 ); Moses, without words (Exodus 14:15 ); and Nehemiah (Nehemiah 2:4 ); Hannah, without words (1 Samuel 1:13 ); Jeremiah, his breathing (Lamentations 3:55 , Lamentations 3:56 ); Jonah, when dying (Jonah 2:2 ); the disciples, their thoughts (Luke 24:15 , Luke 24:38 ).

and a book of remembrance. Some codices, with Syriac, read "a record was written in a book of remembrance". remembrance. Reference to Pentateuch (Exodus 28:29 . Numbers 10:10 , the same word). App-92 .

thought. Precious comfort for those now who cannot speak. We can walk with God (like Enoch, in the darkest days), and think of Him with these God-reverers now, in these similar days.