Choosing Faith Amidst Evil: The Story of Esther
Summary
Evil and chaos often seem to be winning in our world, just as they did in the days of Esther. In Esther chapter 3, we see the rise of Haman, a man whose pride, prejudice, and hatred lead him to plot the destruction of the Jewish people. His actions are rooted in an ancient grudge, but also in a heart that embodies everything God despises: pride, deceit, violence, and division. Mordecai, on the other hand, stands as a contrast—he refuses to bow to Haman, not out of stubbornness, but as a declaration of allegiance to God. This refusal is a reminder that, as followers of Christ, we must decide who holds ultimate authority in our lives. There will be times when our convictions set us apart from the world, and it is both valid and necessary to say, “I do this because I am a Christian.”
The story also highlights the subtlety of evil. Haman manipulates the king with half-truths and hidden motives, never revealing his personal vendetta. Evil rarely announces itself; it comes disguised as wisdom, progress, or even care for others. This calls for discernment. We must be people who know the truth so well that we can recognize deception when it comes. The enemy is cunning, and the lies of our culture are often wrapped in attractive packaging, promising fulfillment but delivering emptiness, shame, and destruction.
Yet, even as evil seems to gain ground, God’s sovereignty is quietly at work. The casting of lots, which determined the date for the Jews’ destruction, “just so happens” to fall nearly a year later, giving God’s people time to respond. The decree itself is issued on the eve of Passover, a time when the Jews remember God’s faithfulness in delivering them from Egypt. These “coincidences” are reminders that God is never absent, even when His name is not mentioned. He is orchestrating events for His purposes, preserving His promises, and ultimately turning what the enemy means for evil into good.
In a world where evil persists, the call is clear: choose whom you will serve, be discerning in the face of deception, and trust that God is sovereign, even when His hand is hidden. The story of Esther is not just ancient history—it is a living reminder that God’s people are never abandoned, and that His purposes will prevail.
Key Takeaways
- Choosing Whom to Bow To: In a world filled with competing authorities—political, cultural, even religious—there is only one worthy of our ultimate allegiance: Jesus Christ. Like Mordecai, we must sometimes stand apart from the crowd, not out of pride, but as a declaration that our lives are submitted to God alone. This may mean refusing to participate in what is popular or even legal, if it contradicts God’s commands. Our identity as Christians is a sufficient reason to live differently, and we must be intentional about who or what we allow to shape our values and actions. [14:10]
- The Subtlety of Evil: Evil rarely presents itself openly; it often comes disguised as something good, reasonable, or beneficial. Haman’s manipulation of the king is a picture of how deception works—by appealing to self-interest, hiding true motives, and twisting the truth. As believers, we must cultivate discernment, recognizing that not every opportunity, idea, or movement is aligned with God’s heart, even if it appears harmless or helpful on the surface. Discernment is not suspicion, but a Spirit-led wisdom that tests everything against the truth of God’s Word. [19:13]
- The Power of Ancient Grudges: Haman’s hatred was not born in a moment; it was the product of generations of animosity and unresolved conflict. This reminds us that the roots of evil often run deep, and that unchecked bitterness can lead to devastating consequences. We are called to break cycles of hatred and prejudice, refusing to pass on animosity to the next generation. The love of God should so fill our hearts that there is no room for hatred, even toward those who have wronged us or our ancestors. [10:20]
- Filling Our Minds with Truth: The only way to recognize and resist the lies of the enemy is to be saturated with the truth of God’s Word. Just as bankers learn to spot counterfeit bills by handling the real thing, we must immerse ourselves in Scripture so that falsehoods become obvious. The enemy is skilled at making lies sound plausible and attractive, but a mind renewed by truth will sense when something is off. Regular engagement with God’s Word is not just a discipline—it is a safeguard for our souls in a deceptive world. [27:01]
- Trusting God’s Hidden Hand: Even when God seems absent, He is sovereignly at work behind the scenes. The timing of the decree in Esther, coinciding with Passover, and the delay in its execution are not accidents—they are evidence of God’s providence. When evil appears to have the upper hand, we can rest in the assurance that God’s purposes cannot be thwarted. Our faith is not in circumstances, but in the God who keeps His promises and works all things for the good of those who love Him. [31:29]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:12] - Reading Esther 3
[03:34] - Introducing the Problem: Evil and Chaos
[04:43] - Batman, Villains, and the Reality of Evil
[05:27] - Choosing Who We Bow To
[06:43] - Haman: The Personification of Evil
[09:17] - The Roots of Hatred and Ancient Grudges
[12:06] - Mordecai’s Refusal to Bow
[14:10] - Allegiance and Authority in the Christian Life
[18:55] - The Need for Discernment
[19:13] - Haman’s Deception and the Subtlety of Evil
[22:20] - The Confusion in Shushan
[24:46] - Modern Lies and the Need for Discernment
[27:01] - Filling Our Minds with Truth
[28:28] - Trusting God’s Sovereignty
[31:29] - God’s Hidden Hand in the Details
[36:17] - Living Faithfully When Evil Prevails
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Esther 3 – When Evil Seems to Prevail
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### Bible Reading
- Esther 3 (entire chapter)
- Proverbs 6:16-19 (“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him…”)
- Proverbs 16:33 (“The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.”)
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### Observation Questions
1. In Esther 3, what specific actions does Haman take against the Jewish people, and what motivates him to do so? ([01:19])
2. According to the sermon, what are the characteristics of Haman that align with what God hates as listed in Proverbs 6:16-19? ([07:25])
3. How does Mordecai respond to the king’s command to bow to Haman, and what reason does the text give for his refusal? ([12:06])
4. What is significant about the timing of the decree against the Jews, and how does the sermon connect this to God’s sovereignty? ([31:29])
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says that Haman’s hatred was rooted in an “ancient grudge.” How does generational hatred or prejudice affect people and communities today? ([10:20])
2. The preacher points out that evil often comes disguised as something good or reasonable. What are some modern examples of this kind of deception, and why is discernment so important for Christians? ([19:13])
3. Mordecai’s refusal to bow is described as a declaration of allegiance to God. What does it look like for a Christian today to “choose whom to bow to” in a world with many competing authorities? ([14:10])
4. The sermon highlights that God’s hand is at work even when He seems absent. How does the story of Esther encourage believers to trust God’s sovereignty in times of uncertainty or when evil seems to be winning? ([31:29])
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon challenges us to consider who or what we are bowing to in our daily lives. Are there areas where you have given more authority to something (politics, career, relationships, self) than to Jesus? What would it look like to realign your allegiance? ([15:27])
2. Mordecai stood apart from the crowd because of his faith. Have you ever felt pressure to go along with something that didn’t align with your Christian convictions? How did you respond, and what might you do differently next time? ([14:45])
3. The message warns that evil is often subtle and deceptive. Can you think of a time when you realized too late that something you thought was “good” was actually harmful or against God’s ways? How can you grow in discernment? ([19:13])
4. The sermon says that the only way to recognize lies is to be saturated with God’s truth. What is your current habit of engaging with Scripture? Is there a specific step you can take this week to fill your mind with God’s Word? ([27:01])
5. Haman’s hatred was fueled by an ancient grudge. Are there any old hurts, prejudices, or bitterness in your life or family that you need to address or let go of? What would it look like to break that cycle? ([10:20])
6. The timing of the decree in Esther was not a coincidence but part of God’s hidden plan. When have you seen “coincidences” in your life that, looking back, were really God at work? How does this encourage you to trust Him now? ([31:29])
7. The sermon says, “It is both valid and necessary to say, ‘I do this because I am a Christian.’” Is there a specific area where you need to be more open about your faith-based decisions? What holds you back, and how can you take a step of courage this week? ([14:45])
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Devotional
Day 1: Choosing Who You Will Bow To
In a world where evil and chaos often seem to prevail, each of us must decide who holds ultimate authority in our lives. The story of Mordecai in Esther 3 reminds us that, even when pressured by culture or law, it is right to stand firm and declare, "I am not doing that because I am a Christian." We are called to bow only to the King of Kings, not to political parties, leaders, or even ourselves. Our worship and allegiance belong to Jesus alone, and this choice shapes every other decision we make, especially when the world around us demands compromise. [17:45]
Esther 3:1-6 (ESV)
After these things King Ahasuerus promoted Haman the Agagite, the son of Hammedatha, and advanced him and set his throne above all the officials who were with him. And all the king’s servants who were at the king’s gate bowed down and paid homage to Haman, for the king had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai did not bow down or pay homage. Then the king’s servants who were at the king’s gate said to Mordecai, “Why do you transgress the king’s command?” And when they spoke to him day after day and he would not listen to them, they told Haman, in order to see whether Mordecai’s words would stand, for he had told them that he was a Jew. And when Haman saw that Mordecai did not bow down or pay homage to him, Haman was filled with fury. But he disdained to lay hands on Mordecai alone. So, as they had made known to him the people of Mordecai, Haman sought to destroy all the Jews, the people of Mordecai, throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you are tempted to give ultimate authority to something or someone other than Jesus? What would it look like to bow only to Him today?
Day 2: The Danger of Pride and Hatred
Pride and hatred, as seen in Haman’s character, are attitudes that God detests and that lead to destruction. The ancient grudge between Haman and the Jews, rooted in generational hatred, shows how unchecked pride and prejudice can escalate into devastating evil. As followers of Christ, we are called to be so filled with the love of God that there is no room for hatred toward others, recognizing that hate is not born but taught, and that we must break cycles of bitterness and prejudice in our own hearts. [07:39]
Proverbs 6:16-19 (ESV)
There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.
Reflection: Is there a person or group you find yourself harboring resentment or prejudice against? Ask God to reveal any hidden pride or hatred in your heart and to fill you with His love instead.
Day 3: Be Discerning—Evil Is Deceptive
Evil rarely announces itself openly; it often comes disguised as something good or beneficial, just as Haman deceived the king with half-truths and hidden motives. In our lives, the enemy’s lies are packaged attractively, promising happiness or relief but leading to bondage, shame, or destruction. To be discerning, we must fill our minds and hearts with the truth of God’s Word, so that when deception comes, we can recognize it and stand firm in what is right. [27:50]
1 Peter 5:8 (ESV)
Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.
Reflection: What is one message or influence you encounter regularly that seems good but may actually be leading you away from God’s truth? How can you fill your mind with Scripture to discern the difference?
Day 4: Trusting God’s Sovereignty When Evil Prevails
Even when evil seems to have the upper hand and God’s presence is hard to see, He is still sovereign and working behind the scenes. The casting of lots in Esther’s story, which delayed the destruction of the Jews, was not random but orchestrated by God, giving His people time and hope. Just as God’s timing and providence were at work in Esther’s day, He remains in control of our circumstances, and we can trust Him even when the outcome seems final or hopeless. [31:15]
Proverbs 16:33 (ESV)
The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.
Reflection: Where in your life do you feel like evil or chaos is prevailing? How can you choose to trust God’s sovereignty and timing in that situation today?
Day 5: Remembering God’s Faithfulness and Salvation
God’s faithfulness to His promises is seen throughout history, especially in moments when His people faced impossible odds. The timing of the evil decree in Esther coincided with Passover, a reminder of God’s past deliverance and a foreshadowing of the ultimate salvation through Jesus. Even when the enemy thinks he has won, God is already at work to bring about victory and redemption. Remembering God’s faithfulness in the past gives us hope and courage to trust Him for the future. [33:02]
Exodus 12:13-14 (ESV)
The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt. This day shall be for you a memorial day, and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations, as a statute forever, you shall keep it as a feast.
Reflection: Recall a time when God was faithful to you in a difficult season. How can remembering His past faithfulness help you trust Him with your present challenges?
Quotes
We look at the world around us and it seems like chaos and evil are thriving, doesn't it? At times you look around, you're like, chaos, destruction, and evil seem to abound and thrive. But we have to in the midst of evil prevailing and persisting, we must decide who we will serve. We must discern truth from lies. And we need to trust that justice will ultimately prevail. [00:05:11]
Hate is not born. Hate is taught. You look at kids, you don't have I mean, the kids the there's no hate in them. The they they love everybody. Sometimes they trust too much. Okay? Hate isn't born. Hate is taught. And here uh this uh hate of the Jewish people had been passed down from generation to generation which just kind of a a side application. [00:09:21]
As Christians be so filled with the love of God that there isn't even room for hatred of other people. But Hmon, he hated the Jews. So much so that at the actions of one person he wants to eradicate an entire people group. Genocide over the actions of one person overreaction I would say at the very least right that he it goes that extreme. [00:09:56]
No matter the specifics though that you might decide on of why we can't really assume too many motives, but the message is clear. Mori is choosing not to bow. Mori is choosing who he will bow to. And I believe based on the story as a whole and the practices of the Jews that whatever the specific reason, this was at least a declaration by Morai that I'm on God's side. [00:14:00]
There will be many times where you are not doing what everyone else is doing. And it is a totally appropriate answer to say,"I am not doing that because I'm a Christian." It's a completely valid and appropriate response to when we're not doing the things that the world is doing. When evil persists, when sin abounds, and even the laws of the land are put into place that are antithetical to what we're commanded in scripture, the truth is we must choose who we will bow to. [00:14:33]
Each and every one of us have to decide who will be the ultimate authority in my life. Who will I bow to? A lot of people, even Christians, have decided that the Constitution of the United States has greater authority in their life than the word of God. Many have decided that they'll bow down to a particular political party to a point that they are overlooking evil, despite the fact that neither party perfectly aligns with God's word. [00:15:23]
You should have respect for and honor your pastors. But we are just human beings. I am no one that should be worshiped. I'm no one to be given ultimate authority in your life. My position and purpose in life is to point you to the one who does have ultimate authority in your life and to the word that he has given to have authority in your life. [00:16:41]
There is only one who is worthy to be worshiped. There is only one who we ought to be bowing down our lives to and giving ultimate authority in our lives to and that is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords, the God of heaven, the redeemer of mankind, the beginning and the end, the first and the last, the elect one, the one who is the same yesterday, today and forever and his name is Jesus. [00:17:40]
For the Christian, that day shouldn't just be something we hope toward. That should be a present reality that we live. He is Lord of my life. He is the one who has ultimate authority in who I in and what I do and how I do it. With uh evil all around us, many will bow to lesser things. And we must choose to bow to Jesus. [00:18:31]
When evil comes, it doesn't advertise itself as evil. The Tik Tok algorithm doesn't tell you that you're about to be fed an idea that's antithetical to God and his ways. It looks like a good and funny message. Does Hmon really care about the kingdom of Persia here? Or does he care about his own pride and his own prejudice? [00:23:50]
There are so many lies that the enemy will throw your way as evil abounds. And friends, we must be discerning. We must be discerning. The evil one, he's cunning. The Bible says he's like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Satan is the father of lies, the Bible tells us. And he's good at telling them. And he's good at packaging them up in attractive ways. [00:26:33]
How do we combat and be discerning against the lies of the enemy? We fill ourselves with truth. How do you combat enemy or the lies? You know the truth. If someone says a lie and you know the truth, you go that's a lie. If you don't know the truth and someone says a lie, you go that might be truth. [00:27:04]
How do we be discerning against the lies of the enemy? We fill our minds with the truth of God's word. When evil is all around us, know that there will be deception and lies from the enemy coming. So, you have to be discerning. But just as we've seen already in this sermon study, just because evil is active doesn't mean God is not in control. [00:27:56]
Even when evil surrounds us and seems to prevail, we must also trust that God truly is sovereign. We must also trust that God truly is sovereign. Let me ask you this. How many of you believe in God this morning? Say amen. Just say amen. Yeah. Okay. How many of you believe God knows what he's doing? Say amen. Amen. [00:28:31]
The decision of the day that this law would take place was certainly of the Lord because it gave the Jews a whole year to get ready because it would and because it would also give Morai and Esther, as we'll see in as we continue the story, it would give them time to act. This was God in the story saying, "Hey, the evil is is prevailing, it seems, but I'm here at work. [00:31:23]
At times it may be hard to see it because evil seems to prevail and surround us all around. But just because evil is active doesn't mean that God is not in control. So we can trust that he is sovereign. It it can be difficult for us to navigate living in a world where evil continues to persist persist and oftentimes seems to prevail. But it's not over. until Jesus says it's over. [00:35:58]
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