05-12-25 part 1: Chosen Love, Undeserved Favor, and the God Who Doesn’t Let Go
1. God’s Declaration of Undeniable Love
Dr. Spoon leads us into Malachi 1, where the Lord makes a profound and often misunderstood statement: “I have loved you deeply.” Yet Israel responds with skepticism, asking, “How have You loved us?” God answers by reminding them of His choice of Jacob over Esau—a deliberate act of love and covenant commitment. Dr. Spoon emphasizes that while this might feel harsh or confusing, it’s actually a declaration of God’s personal love. The Lord is saying, “I chose your forefather, and through that choice, I chose you.” It's not about favoritism—it’s about divine love that runs deeper than human understanding.
2. The Mystery of Divine Choice and Human Free Will
Dr. Spoon carefully walks the listener through the tension between God's sovereignty and human responsibility. From a human view, people must make choices, but from God's perspective, He is weaving a perfect plan that includes His intentional selection. Like a tapestry seen from the underside, life may look chaotic, but from God’s vantage point, it's a beautiful picture of purpose. Dr. Spoon explains that the failure of many believers is missing how much God’s choice reveals His love. His selection of Jacob’s line is a direct reflection of His intentional, passionate pursuit of us—making us heirs of Abraham by faith and part of His eternal family.
3. Judgment Against Wickedness, Protection Over His People
As Malachi continues, Dr. Spoon explains how God’s rejection of Esau and Edom underscores His protective nature over His people. While Esau’s descendants tried to rebuild, God declared their efforts would fail because they embraced wickedness. Dr. Spoon points out that God’s alliances aren’t random—they are purposeful, filled with love for those who are His and judgment for those who oppose Him. Even when believers feel attacked or wronged, God sees, God knows, and God will always have the last word. No injustice against His children escapes His notice or goes unanswered.
4. A Covenant That Cannot Be Broken
Dr. Spoon closes with an encouragement that God’s covenant is not fragile—it’s forever. Even knowing our weaknesses, God chose us. He committed to us fully, knowing our failures before we ever made them. His love isn’t performance-based. It’s a declaration rooted in His faithfulness, not our perfection. This is the heart of Malachi’s message—not just about tithes and offerings, but about recognizing and rejoicing in the unbreakable love God has for His people. Dr. Spoon urges us to let this truth sink deep into our spirits: God will never let go. Ever.