The priests and leaders in Malachi's time did not let their actions follow their words. The second chapter of this book is bursting with accusations of their hypocrisy: betrayal, blasphemy in the sanctuary, intermarriage, growing divorce, and false teaching. (Malachi 2:10-17)
God expects leaders to live out the life they want to see in their followers. Successful leaders know that they must first model the desired behaviors themselves. Because people do what people see. So leaders are role models first, before they are teachers, mentors, or managers.
What happens when leaders are no longer role models? The following thoughts support reflection on this:
- They fail to preserve the truth for the people. (v7)
- They dilute people's appetite for growth and help. (v7)
- Through their poor example, they cause many people to stumble. (v8)
- They corrupt the covenant God made with them. (v8)
- They lose their credibility. (v9)
Malachi 2:7-9
7 For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the LORD of hosts.
8 But ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at the law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith the LORD of hosts.
9 Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the law.
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