As God continued talking to the priests in Malachi 2:1-9, he rebuked them for failing in their two duties: offering sacrifices and teaching. If they refused to change their ways, God threatened them with extinction. Although they lasted another 500 years, they eventually disappeared and became obsolete, once the perfect high priest offered the perfect sacrifice.
Two parables directed against the religious leaders indicated why they would lose their management of the kingdom, and why others would take their place.
Daniel’s three friends preferred to die rather than renounce their faith, knowing that God would be with them no matter what.
The lifestyle of citizens of the kingdom of God includes unity, joy, and humility.
