By Malachi's day, Israel was a mere shadow of its former self. Their depressed state led them to question God’s love, and such doubts resulted in spiritual apathy – the main concern of the book. But before the LORD confronts their apathy, he begins with an affirmation of his sovereign, electing love for them.
Sermon Notes: Does God Love Us?
https://youtu.be/zksEuBrW8wg