Malachi prophesied that God would send a special messenger. This messenger would arrive before the Lord's return to Hs temple. But this would not be easy for the people, for there was refining work to be done. The descendants of Levi had not been presenting the offerings to the Lord in a righteous manner. Therefore, the Levites would be refined until their offerings were pleasing to the Lord. Malachi also foretold the return of Elijah, who was later connected with John the Baptist.

Zechariah had become mute because of his lack of belief when the angel told him that Elizabeth would bear a son. The angel's words proved true, and the baby was born. When Zechariah and Elizabeth brought their baby to the temple, they were asked his name. Elizabeth immediately said, "John", but the others questioned this choice. Zechariah was handed a writing tablet to respond to their questions. When he wrote that the baby's name was to be John, his speech was restored. Faith must come before understanding. God speaks to our hearts, and then we are able to understand. Knowledge of God is more than the type of knowledge the world offers.