Faith, Sovereignty, and Peacemaking in Divided Times
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, church. Today, we are reminded of the deep divisions in our country and the importance of placing our faith in Jesus Christ rather than in political figures or systems. As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers in a world that thrives on conflict. We must examine our hearts and actions, ensuring that we are not contributing to the bitterness and anger that pervades our society. We prayed for our country, our leaders, and for our own hearts to be aligned with God's will.
We then transitioned to the story of Queen Esther, a tale filled with suspense, heroes, villains, and divine intervention. Despite God's name not being mentioned in the book, His presence and sovereignty are evident throughout. The story of Esther teaches us that our actions can have far-reaching consequences and that God is always in control, orchestrating events for His glory and the salvation of His people.
We delved into the historical context of the book, noting that many Jews, including Esther and Mordecai, chose to stay in Persia rather than return to Jerusalem. Despite their assimilation into a pagan culture, they held onto the belief that God would protect His people. This belief was crucial as it challenged the contemporary notion that deities were localized and only cared for their people within specific geographical boundaries.
The narrative begins with King Ahasuerus, a powerful and wealthy ruler, throwing an extravagant six-month-long party to display his glory and plan an attack on Greece. Queen Vashti's refusal to appear before the king and his guests led to her banishment, setting the stage for Esther's rise. This story highlights the stark contrast between the spirit of King Ahasuerus, who epitomizes the Antichrist spirit, and the spirit of King Jesus, who embodies humility, love, and sacrifice.
As we reflect on these characters, we must examine our own lives. Are our actions and desires led by the Holy Spirit or by the Antichrist spirit? We are called to be filled with the holiness, humility, and dependence on God that Jesus exemplifies. Let us run to Jesus, who always welcomes us with open arms, ready to forgive and transform us.
### Key Takeaways
1. Peacemakers in a Divided World: As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers in a world filled with conflict and division. Our faith should be in Jesus Christ, not in political figures or systems. We must examine our hearts and ensure that our actions and words promote peace rather than contribute to the bitterness and anger around us. [01:58]
2. God's Sovereignty in Esther: The book of Esther, though it never mentions God's name, powerfully demonstrates His sovereignty. God orchestrates events for His glory and the salvation of His people, reminding us that He is always in control, even when He seems absent. This encourages us to trust in God's plan, knowing that He is working behind the scenes for our good. [07:38]
3. The Antichrist Spirit vs. the Spirit of Christ: King Ahasuerus exemplifies the Antichrist spirit with his pride, extravagance, and disregard for others. In contrast, Jesus embodies humility, love, and sacrifice. We must examine our own lives to ensure that our actions and desires are led by the Holy Spirit and not by the Antichrist spirit. [35:50]
4. The Role of Women in God's Kingdom: The story of Queen Vashti and Esther highlights the value and dignity of women in God's eyes. Unlike King Ahasuerus, who used women for his pleasure, Jesus values and includes women in His ministry. Women are integral to God's kingdom, and their gifts and talents are essential for reaching the world. [44:10]
5. Self-Examination and Repentance: We must regularly examine our hearts and actions to identify any areas where we may be influenced by the Antichrist spirit. When we find such areas, we should run to Jesus, who is always ready to forgive and transform us. Our lives should be marked by holiness, humility, and a deep dependence on God. [48:48]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:58] - Call to Be Peacemakers
[02:53] - Prayer for Our Country and Leaders
[04:33] - Focus on God's Sovereignty
[05:19] - Introduction to the Book of Esther
[07:38] - God's Hidden Presence in Esther
[08:10] - Historical Context of Esther
[09:33] - Return from Exile
[11:24] - Jews in Persia
[12:45] - God's Protection of His People
[14:11] - King Ahasuerus' Extravagant Party
[16:30] - Queen Vashti's Refusal
[21:06] - Consequences for Queen Vashti
[26:32] - Cultural Context and Marriage Dynamics
[35:50] - The Antichrist Spirit vs. the Spirit of Christ
[44:10] - The Role of Women in God's Kingdom
[48:48] - Self-Examination and Repentance
[49:30] - Closing Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Esther 1:1-22 - The story of King Ahasuerus, Queen Vashti, and the extravagant party.
2. 1 John 2:18 - "Children, it is the last hour. As you have heard that Antichrist is coming, so now many antichrists have come. Therefore we know that it is the last hour."
### Observation Questions
1. What was the main reason for King Ahasuerus' six-month-long party? ([14:11])
2. How did Queen Vashti respond to King Ahasuerus' command, and what were the consequences of her actions? ([21:48])
3. What is unique about the book of Esther in terms of mentioning God and religious practices? ([07:38])
4. According to the sermon, what are some characteristics of the Antichrist spirit as exemplified by King Ahasuerus? ([35:50])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the story of Esther demonstrate God's sovereignty, even though His name is never mentioned? ([07:38])
2. In what ways does King Ahasuerus' behavior contrast with the spirit of Christ? ([35:50])
3. How does the belief that God will protect His people, even in exile, challenge the contemporary notion of localized deities? ([12:45])
4. What does the sermon suggest about the role and value of women in God's kingdom compared to their treatment in the story of Esther? ([44:10])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own life: Are there areas where you might be contributing to division rather than being a peacemaker? How can you change your actions or words to promote peace? ([01:58])
2. The sermon calls us to examine our hearts and actions. What steps can you take this week to ensure your actions are led by the Holy Spirit rather than by selfish desires? ([48:48])
3. How can you trust in God's sovereignty in your current circumstances, especially when He seems absent? Share a situation where you need to rely on God's control. ([07:38])
4. The story of Queen Vashti and Esther highlights the dignity of women. How can you affirm and support the women in your life and community in a way that reflects Jesus' love and respect for them? ([44:10])
5. The sermon encourages self-examination and repentance. Identify one area in your life where you need to repent and seek Jesus' forgiveness. What practical steps will you take to address this? ([48:48])
6. Considering the contrast between King Ahasuerus and Jesus, how can you embody humility, love, and sacrifice in your daily interactions? ([35:50])
7. How can you be more aware of the Antichrist spirit in today's world and ensure that your actions and desires align with the spirit of Christ? ([48:48])
Devotional
Day 1: Peacemakers in a Divided World
As Christians, we are called to be peacemakers in a world filled with conflict and division. Our faith should be in Jesus Christ, not in political figures or systems. We must examine our hearts and ensure that our actions and words promote peace rather than contribute to the bitterness and anger around us. In a society that often thrives on conflict, it is crucial for believers to stand out as agents of peace, reflecting the love and grace of Christ in all interactions. This means actively seeking reconciliation, showing kindness, and being slow to anger.
Jesus taught that peacemakers are blessed and will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9). This calling requires us to rise above the fray of political and social discord, focusing instead on the eternal kingdom of God. By doing so, we can be a light in the darkness, offering hope and healing to a fractured world. Let us commit to being peacemakers, trusting in Jesus to guide our hearts and actions. [01:58]
James 3:17-18 (ESV): "But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere. And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace."
Reflection: Think of a recent conflict or disagreement you were involved in. How can you approach it differently to promote peace and reflect Christ's love?
Day 2: God's Sovereignty in Esther
The book of Esther, though it never mentions God's name, powerfully demonstrates His sovereignty. God orchestrates events for His glory and the salvation of His people, reminding us that He is always in control, even when He seems absent. This encourages us to trust in God's plan, knowing that He is working behind the scenes for our good. Esther's story is a testament to God's providence, showing that He can use anyone and any situation to fulfill His purposes.
Despite the apparent absence of God in the narrative, His hand is evident in the timing and outcomes of the events. Esther's rise to queen, Mordecai's uncovering of a plot against the king, and the eventual deliverance of the Jews all point to a divine plan. This should reassure us that God is always at work, even when we cannot see it. Trusting in His sovereignty allows us to face uncertainties with confidence, knowing that He is in control. [07:38]
Proverbs 16:9 (ESV): "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when you felt God's presence was absent in your life. How can you trust in His sovereignty and believe that He is working behind the scenes for your good?
Day 3: The Antichrist Spirit vs. the Spirit of Christ
King Ahasuerus exemplifies the Antichrist spirit with his pride, extravagance, and disregard for others. In contrast, Jesus embodies humility, love, and sacrifice. We must examine our own lives to ensure that our actions and desires are led by the Holy Spirit and not by the Antichrist spirit. The stark contrast between Ahasuerus and Jesus serves as a reminder of the values we should uphold as followers of Christ.
Ahasuerus' actions were driven by self-glorification and a desire for power, whereas Jesus' life was marked by humility and service. As believers, we are called to emulate Christ's character, rejecting pride and selfishness. This requires a daily commitment to self-examination and repentance, seeking to align our hearts with the Holy Spirit. By doing so, we can live lives that reflect the love and humility of Jesus. [35:50]
Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV): "Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."
Reflection: Identify an area in your life where pride or selfishness has taken root. How can you practice humility and selflessness in that area today?
Day 4: The Role of Women in God's Kingdom
The story of Queen Vashti and Esther highlights the value and dignity of women in God's eyes. Unlike King Ahasuerus, who used women for his pleasure, Jesus values and includes women in His ministry. Women are integral to God's kingdom, and their gifts and talents are essential for reaching the world. The narrative of Esther shows that God can use anyone, regardless of gender, to accomplish His purposes.
Jesus' ministry was revolutionary in its inclusion of women, treating them with respect and honor. This stands in stark contrast to the cultural norms of the time, as well as the actions of Ahasuerus. As a church, we must recognize and affirm the vital role that women play in God's kingdom, encouraging and supporting their contributions. By doing so, we reflect the inclusive and loving nature of Christ. [44:10]
Galatians 3:28 (ESV): "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."
Reflection: Think of a woman in your life who has significantly impacted your faith journey. How can you encourage and support her in her ministry or calling?
Day 5: Self-Examination and Repentance
We must regularly examine our hearts and actions to identify any areas where we may be influenced by the Antichrist spirit. When we find such areas, we should run to Jesus, who is always ready to forgive and transform us. Our lives should be marked by holiness, humility, and a deep dependence on God. Self-examination is a crucial practice for spiritual growth, helping us to stay aligned with God's will.
Repentance is not a one-time event but a continual process of turning away from sin and towards God. By regularly examining our hearts, we can identify areas that need transformation and seek God's help in changing them. Jesus' grace and forgiveness are always available to us, offering a fresh start and the power to live holy lives. Let us commit to a lifestyle of self-examination and repentance, trusting in Jesus to guide and transform us. [48:48]
Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV): "Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!"
Reflection: Take a moment to ask God to reveal any areas in your life that need repentance. How can you take a step towards transformation and holiness today?
Quotes
1. "This is not our home. We are Americans, but first of all, we are Christians. And as Christians, we are called to think differently. We are called to act differently. We are called to talk differently." [01:58] (24 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "And I think as Christians, we need to examine our hearts. And ask the question, why? Why is this so important? Why is this so important when this is not my home? And whoever sits in the White House is not the king. Alright?" [02:53] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "As we read the book of Esther, not only does it never mention God, but it also never mentions the Jews praying. It never mentions the Jews offering sacrifices to God as they had been commanded to do. Their time in pagan lands had turned them pagan in most every way possible. They had become like their culture." [12:04] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Despite the rejection of God, despite the rejection of His law, there appears to be one truth that they never gave up on. God will protect His people. God will protect His people." [12:45] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Ladies, let me just talk to you for a second. Yes, the Bible says husbands and wives submit. But ladies, over and above submitting to any man, you submit to God. He is the ultimate authority in your life. Ladies, hear me, especially younger ladies. If you are ever with a man who wants to denigrate you by commanding the way you should dress, the way you should talk, the way you should act, if that's the man you're with, the answer is no. He is not a godly man." [25:42] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Jesus gave up the riches of heaven and he came to God. He came to this earth so that he could become one of us. He became one of us so that he could empathize with us. And he could be the mediator between us and God the Father." [37:07] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "Jesus is patient. Over and over and over again, you and I sin against Jesus. And over and over again, he forgives. He does not banish us like Queen Vashti, but he says, come to me and I will receive you and I will redeem you by my blood. I will forgive you. I will love you." [44:10] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "King Jesus loves women. He values you as part of his kingdom. He has established women as part of his ministry in order to reach the world through your gifting and your talents because he loves you." [44:10] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "King Jesus is the King of Kings. Every tribe, tongue, and nation will worship him. Ahasuerus loved his big throne. There are stories that when the army would go out to war, they would have him carried in his big throne so that he could watch his men fight and die for him. King Ahasuerus is not on the throne. King Jesus is on the throne. And he will be for all eternity." [45:16] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "As Christians, it is our responsibility to reject the Antichrist spirit when we see men rise up with it. But we also must have some self-reflection ourselves. See, it's easy to look at King Ahasuerus and all the men that came to his party and go, Gross. Those people are disgusting. But we have to ask ourselves, Is the only difference between them and me opportunity?" [47:19] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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