2009 Jeep Patriot rattling noice

1. Rattling noise that sounds like metal rattling against metal. Makes the sound at idle, whether in park or drive, and initially increases with acceleration. At interstate speeds, not noticeable. My vehicle just passed Maryland state inspection in July (four months ago).
2. May not be related, but twice when I was driving it and I stopped for traffic, it idled rough like it was going to cut out then the electronic throttle light and the ESP lights came on. The rough idle and lights continued until I stopped the car. When I started it again, the lights did not remain lit and no rough idle.
3. The other day after I filled up the gas tank, the first traffic stop I made, the car cut out (no rough idle this time). I started it back up with no problem, but on the way home I noticed a quick spark like noise. Simultaneously, the lights dimmed for a few seconds and then the battery light came on. The vehicle ran fine the rest of the way home, but I am a little leery to drive it now.