Malthus and Malachi

• Malachi 3:1 (MSG)

---

My discipline, the discipline of economics, is often referred to as the "dismal science". This is true (for lots of reasons) but legend has it Thomas Malthus is to blame. His life's work revolved around this idea: we're doomed.

Life of the party? Social A-Lister? Probably not. Malthus believed the food supply grew at a constant rate and the population grew at a geometric rate. Because of these beliefs, he predicted starvation, wars, high prices for food and other necessities. Doom.

Malthus and Malachi could have hung out. Malachi writes prophetically about impending doom if the Hebrews continue marginalizing God. Their worship practices had become routine and lifeless. By their actions, their priorities were clear and they were not centered on God. And, God, after all, had been the source of their provision, protection, and blessing.

What it must have been like to walk a mile in Malachi's shoes? To see the beauty of the earth and the treachery of its people. To long for reconciliation and speak judgment. I do think Malachi would have found comfort in my economist friend.

---