Esther: Courage, Providence, and the Power of Community
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we continue our series on the Book of Esther, focusing on chapters 4 through 7. We began by introducing the main characters: King Xerxes, Haman, Mordecai, and Esther. King Xerxes, the ruler of a vast empire, is wealthy but insecure. Haman, his advisor, is wealthy and evil, harboring a deep hatred for the Jewish people, especially Mordecai. Mordecai, Esther's uncle, has raised her and holds a position in the royal court. Esther, the young and beautiful queen, has kept her Jewish identity a secret.
Chapter 4 marks a pivotal moment in the story. Mordecai learns of the decree to kill all Jews and publicly mourns, which disturbs Esther. She sends him clothes to cover his grief, but he refuses and informs her of the plot. Mordecai instructs Esther to approach the king and plead for their people, risking her life in the process. Esther, showing wisdom and maturity, calls for a three-day fast before taking action.
In chapters 5 and 6, Esther approaches the king and invites him and Haman to a banquet. Haman, feeling honored, plans to kill Mordecai but is humiliated when the king orders him to honor Mordecai instead. This ironic twist highlights the theme of divine providence, where "nothing just happens to happen."
Finally, in chapter 7, Esther reveals Haman's plot to the king, who orders Haman's execution. The story contrasts the misuse of secular power by Xerxes and Haman with the sacred, godly power exercised by Esther and Mordecai. Esther's actions are selfless and sacrificial, embodying the qualities of Jesus, who used his power for the benefit of others.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Public Mourning and Vulnerability: Mordecai's public display of grief serves as a powerful act of vulnerability, showing that true strength often lies in acknowledging our pain and seeking communal support. This act of mourning not only draws attention to the plight of the Jewish people but also sets the stage for Esther's courageous intervention. Vulnerability can be a catalyst for change and a call to action. [01:17:18]
2. The Courage to Ask Difficult Questions: Esther's decision to inquire about Mordecai's distress, despite her initial hesitation, teaches us the importance of asking difficult questions. Often, we avoid probing deeper into others' pain to maintain our comfort. However, true compassion requires us to step into uncomfortable spaces, ask the hard questions, and offer our support and prayers. [01:19:35]
3. Divine Providence in Unexpected Places: The story of Esther is a testament to God's providence, even when His name is not explicitly mentioned. The seemingly coincidental events, such as the king's sleepless night and the reading of the chronicles, reveal a divine orchestration behind the scenes. This reminds us that God is always at work, even in the most unlikely circumstances. [01:28:18]
4. The Contrast Between Secular and Sacred Power: The narrative contrasts the secular, self-serving power of Xerxes and Haman with the sacred, selfless power of Esther and Mordecai. While secular power seeks personal gain and recognition, sacred power is characterized by humility, sacrifice, and a focus on the welfare of others. This distinction challenges us to reflect on how we use our own power and influence. [01:35:22]
5. The Importance of Community and Prayer: Esther's call for a communal fast before approaching the king underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance and support from our community. She did not act alone but relied on the prayers and fasting of her people. This collective spiritual discipline highlights the power of community in facing life's challenges and seeking God's intervention. [01:24:06]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [01:10:09] - Introduction of Main Characters
3. [01:11:37] - The Decree to Kill All Jews
4. [01:15:44] - Mordecai's Public Mourning
5. [01:17:18] - Esther's Response to Mordecai
6. [01:19:35] - The Courage to Ask Difficult Questions
7. [01:20:39] - Mordecai Instructs Esther
8. [01:21:52] - Esther's Decision to Act
9. [01:23:05] - The Call for a Fast
10. [01:24:06] - The Power of Community and Prayer
11. [01:25:32] - Esther Approaches the King
12. [01:26:24] - Haman's Pride and Downfall
13. [01:28:18] - The King's Sleepless Night
14. [01:30:17] - Haman's Humiliation
15. [01:32:47] - Esther's Plea to the King
16. [01:33:21] - Haman's Execution
17. [01:34:46] - The Contrast of Power
18. [01:35:22] - Sacred vs. Secular Power
19. [01:39:18] - Esther's Selfless Actions
20. [01:41:09] - Closing Prayer and Worship
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Esther 4:1-3 (NIV)
> When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly and bitterly. But he went only as far as the king’s gate, because no one clothed in sackcloth was allowed to enter it. In every province to which the edict and order of the king came, there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting, weeping and wailing. Many lay in sackcloth and ashes.
2. Esther 4:13-16 (NIV)
> He sent back this answer: “Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?” Then Esther sent this reply to Mordecai: “Go, gather together all the Jews who are in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. I and my attendants will fast as you do. When this is done, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish.”
3. Philippians 2:3-8 (The Message)
> Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand. Think of yourselves the way Christ Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.
### Observation Questions
1. What actions did Mordecai take when he learned about the decree to kill all Jews? (Esther 4:1-3)
2. How did Esther initially respond to Mordecai’s public mourning and what did she do next? [01:18:23]
3. What was Mordecai’s message to Esther regarding her royal position and the impending danger to the Jews? (Esther 4:13-16)
4. How does Philippians 2:3-8 describe the attitude and actions of Jesus in relation to power and humility?
### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Mordecai’s public display of grief and refusal to hide his mourning teach us about vulnerability and communal support? [01:17:18]
2. How does Esther’s decision to fast and pray before approaching the king demonstrate her wisdom and maturity? [01:23:05]
3. In what ways does the story of Esther illustrate the concept of divine providence, even when God’s name is not explicitly mentioned? [01:28:18]
4. How does the contrast between the secular power of Xerxes and Haman and the sacred power of Esther and Mordecai challenge us to reflect on our own use of power and influence? [01:35:22]
### Application Questions
1. Mordecai’s public mourning was a powerful act of vulnerability. How can you practice vulnerability in your own life to draw attention to important issues and seek communal support? [01:17:18]
2. Esther had the courage to ask difficult questions and step into uncomfortable spaces. Is there someone in your life you need to ask, “What is troubling you?” How can you prepare yourself to offer support and prayers? [01:19:35]
3. The story of Esther shows God’s providence in unexpected places. Can you recall a time in your life when you saw God’s hand at work in a seemingly coincidental event? How did it impact your faith?
4. Reflect on the contrast between secular and sacred power. In what areas of your life do you hold power or influence? How can you use it selflessly for the benefit of others, following the example of Jesus? [01:35:22]
5. Esther called for a communal fast before taking action. How can you incorporate communal prayer and fasting into your decision-making process? Is there a current situation where you need to seek divine guidance and support from your community? [01:24:06]
6. The sermon highlighted the importance of asking difficult questions and stepping into uncomfortable spaces. How can you cultivate the courage to ask these questions in your relationships and community? [01:19:35]
7. Sacred power is characterized by humility and sacrifice. Identify one specific way you can practice humility and serve others in your daily life this week. [01:35:22]
Devotional
Day 1: The Strength in Vulnerability
Mordecai's public display of grief serves as a powerful act of vulnerability, showing that true strength often lies in acknowledging our pain and seeking communal support. This act of mourning not only draws attention to the plight of the Jewish people but also sets the stage for Esther's courageous intervention. Vulnerability can be a catalyst for change and a call to action. Mordecai's willingness to be vulnerable in a public space demonstrates that sometimes, the most courageous thing we can do is to admit our struggles and seek help from others. This act of vulnerability not only brings awareness to the issue but also mobilizes others to take action.
In our own lives, we often hide our pain and struggles, fearing judgment or rejection. However, Mordecai's example teaches us that there is power in being open about our vulnerabilities. It can lead to communal support, collective action, and ultimately, change. By being vulnerable, we invite others into our journey and create opportunities for God to work through our community. [01:17:18]
Psalm 34:18 (ESV): "The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit."
Reflection: Think of a recent struggle or pain you have been hiding. How can you share this vulnerability with a trusted friend or community member today to seek support and prayer?
Day 2: The Courage to Inquire
Esther's decision to inquire about Mordecai's distress, despite her initial hesitation, teaches us the importance of asking difficult questions. Often, we avoid probing deeper into others' pain to maintain our comfort. However, true compassion requires us to step into uncomfortable spaces, ask the hard questions, and offer our support and prayers. Esther's willingness to engage with Mordecai's grief, even when it was risky and uncomfortable, demonstrates her deep compassion and courage.
In our daily interactions, we may encounter people who are struggling but hesitate to ask them about their pain. Esther's example challenges us to move beyond our comfort zones and show genuine concern for others. By asking difficult questions, we open the door for deeper connections and provide opportunities for healing and support. [01:19:35]
Proverbs 20:5 (ESV): "The purpose in a man's heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who may be struggling. How can you courageously ask them about their situation and offer your support today?
Day 3: Recognizing Divine Providence
The story of Esther is a testament to God's providence, even when His name is not explicitly mentioned. The seemingly coincidental events, such as the king's sleepless night and the reading of the chronicles, reveal a divine orchestration behind the scenes. This reminds us that God is always at work, even in the most unlikely circumstances. The narrative of Esther encourages us to trust in God's unseen hand, knowing that He is orchestrating events for His purposes.
In our own lives, we may not always see God's hand at work, especially in difficult or mundane situations. However, the story of Esther reminds us that God is present and active, even when we cannot perceive it. By recognizing and trusting in His providence, we can find peace and assurance that He is in control. [01:28:18]
Isaiah 46:10 (ESV): "Declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'"
Reflection: Reflect on a recent event in your life that seemed coincidental. How can you see God's hand at work in that situation, and how does it change your perspective?
Day 4: The Contrast of Power
The narrative contrasts the secular, self-serving power of Xerxes and Haman with the sacred, selfless power of Esther and Mordecai. While secular power seeks personal gain and recognition, sacred power is characterized by humility, sacrifice, and a focus on the welfare of others. This distinction challenges us to reflect on how we use our own power and influence. Esther and Mordecai's actions demonstrate that true power is exercised for the benefit of others, not for personal glory.
In our own lives, we may hold positions of influence or authority, whether in our families, workplaces, or communities. The story of Esther challenges us to use our power selflessly, prioritizing the well-being of others over our own ambitions. By doing so, we reflect the character of Christ, who used His power to serve and save humanity. [01:35:22]
Mark 10:42-45 (ESV): "And Jesus called them to him and said to them, 'You know that those who are considered rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them. But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.'"
Reflection: Consider a position of influence you hold. How can you use your power and authority to serve others selflessly this week?
Day 5: The Power of Community and Prayer
Esther's call for a communal fast before approaching the king underscores the importance of seeking divine guidance and support from our community. She did not act alone but relied on the prayers and fasting of her people. This collective spiritual discipline highlights the power of community in facing life's challenges and seeking God's intervention. Esther's reliance on her community's support demonstrates the strength that comes from united prayer and fasting.
In our own spiritual journeys, we may face challenges that seem insurmountable. Esther's example encourages us to seek the support of our faith community through prayer and fasting. By coming together in collective spiritual practices, we can draw strength from one another and invite God's intervention in our circumstances. [01:24:06]
James 5:16 (ESV): "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."
Reflection: Think of a challenge you are currently facing. How can you involve your faith community in prayer and possibly fasting to seek God's guidance and intervention?
Quotes
1. "We need to give people the opportunity to share their burdens, to share their grief and their pain with us. Because if we don't, how else can we ask, can we pray for them? And how else? Can we pray with them and invite the Lord to enter into that messiness and bring that healing and resolution? We need each other. We're not made to do this alone." [01:20:39] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Mordecai saying, if you don't help, help will come from another place. He's remembering God's covenant with Abraham. God will not forget his people. And he wonders aloud, who knows, maybe this is why you're in your position. Mordecai doesn't know how God will resolve this situation and redeem his people. He just believes that he will. His words challenge her and he asks her to consider. And consider she does." [01:23:05] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Before any further action is taken, Esther says, we fast first. It's a sign of wisdom and maturity that she's grown into. And although prayer is not explicitly mentioned here, we can assume that the people pray and fast. And cry out. To God to save their lives, claiming his promises from old asking for his mercy and his intervention in this terrible situation." [01:24:06] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Sacred or secular has been the subtitle of this Esther series. The secular, worldly power we see here is ugly. It's abusive. It's manipulative. And it's dangerous. It's audacious and in-your-face, the display of wealth, the way people are used as disposable commodities. It's self-centered. It brings death. And it's insatiable. Haman's never satisfied. He always wants more, more recognition, higher position. He basically wants to be king." [01:35:22] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "As Jesus followers, we have such an incredible model of what holding power well looks like. It's good for us to think where we hold power and influence. Because we all do. Whether we realize it or not, whether that's in our workplace, marriages, parenting, family relationships, or friendships. And to do a check in with ourselves about how we're holding it. We're all humans, that means we're all gonna mess up. It means sometimes we are gonna operate out of our insecurities and our selfish desires." [01:38:11] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Sacred power is humble. It's patient. Sacred power is always looking to be servant-hearted. Always looking for the best interests in others. Esther used her power and influence to protect and advocate for the vulnerable in her society. And so are we. Just like Diane was talking about earlier with compassion. Esther doesn't act rashly or reactively. She planned her steps, seeking wisdom from God. And so are we. That's what sacred power looks like." [01:39:18] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "In a secular world, Esther prioritized prayer and fasting. She asked others to join with her before she took action. Her attendants, probably her friends, her uncle, the Jewish community, she didn't do it alone. She didn't try to do things in her own strength or power. And neither should we. We need others and we need God. Prayer moves things that human action alone can't do that. And we know that. In order to hold power and influence well in a sacred way, we need the Lord's help. It's impossible for us to do it well without him." [01:40:28] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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