The prophecy of Malachi is seen
to be fulfilled in the person of John the Baptist who dressed like the prophet
(2 Kings 1: 8 and Matthew 3: 4) and followed in the old prophetic tradition.
Jesus compared John the Baptist to Elijah (Matthew 17: 11-13).
Jesus referred to the widow
to whom Elijah went (1 Kings 17 and Luke 4: 24-26). The most significant
reference to Elijah is in the account of the Transfiguration (Luke 9: 28-35).
Elijah with Moses represented the teaching of the Covenant Law, upheld by the
prophets. They bore witness to the fulfillment of the teaching of the Old
Testament in the teaching and person of Jesus Christ. In the Letter of James,
Elijah is given as an example of one who knew how to pray (James S :17-18).
Elijah points directly towards
the other great prophets who come after him. He stood for the restoration of
the covenant faith and way of life in Israel. His courage and uncompromising
commitment to what God had shown him in a situation where, at times, he stood
alone, are meaningful for Christians today.