Contradiction with Genesis 8:22
This verse reassures the continuity of seasons and life on Earth, while Malachi 4:1 speaks of a day that shall burn as an oven, suggesting destruction.
Genesis 8:22: While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease. [While...: Heb. As yet all the days of the earth]
Contradiction with Matthew 5:5
This verse blesses the meek, stating they shall inherit the earth, while Malachi 4:1 suggests total destruction of the wicked, potentially implying a different fate for the earth.
Matthew 5:5: Blessed [are] the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
Contradiction with Genesis 9:11
This verse promises that a flood would never again destroy all life, contrasting with Malachi 4:1's portrayal of a day of complete burning destruction.
Genesis 9:11: And I will establish my covenant with you; neither shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of a flood; neither shall there any more be a flood to destroy the earth.
Contradiction with Matthew 24:35
This verse claims heaven and earth shall pass away, but suggests continuity until then, whereas Malachi 4:1 describes a day of imminent fiery judgment.
Matthew 24:35: Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Contradiction with Psalm 104:5
This verse talks about God setting the earth on stable foundations to last forever, while Malachi 4:1 hints at a consuming fire affecting the earth's inhabitants.
Psalm 104:5: [Who] laid the foundations of the earth, [that] it should not be removed for ever. [Who...: Heb. He hath founded the earth upon her bases]
Contradiction with Ecclesiastes 1:4
This verse states the earth abides forever, contrasting with Malachi 4:1's implication of an approaching cataclysm.
Ecclesiastes 1:4: [One] generation passeth away, and [another] generation cometh: but the earth abideth for ever.
Paradox #1
The potential inconsistency is with the concept of a loving and forgiving God. Malachi 4:1 speaks about destruction and judgment for the wicked, which could seem at odds with the idea of God being endlessly forgiving and merciful. Some people might find it difficult to reconcile the idea of a harsh punishment with a loving deity.