Podcasts about scripture: esther

Sermon title: What's Next!? Esther: Faith to Risk for God's PurposeScripture: Esther 4:12-17; Esther 8 Series Big Idea: Faith isn't just for the destination, it's forged in the transitions. God meets us, grows us, and uses us in every season of change. Sermon Big Idea: Courage in the face of uncertainty. Bottom Line: Faith means risking comfort and safety to step into God's bigger story.

Daily Dose of Hope March 2, 2025 Day 1 of Week 49   Scripture: Esther 7-10; Revelation 3   Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church daily Bible reading plan.  We are in week 49 of 52!  Good job, everyone.  We have almost read the whole Bible in a year.    Today, our Old Testament reading is finishing the book of Esther.  Let's start with chapter 7.  Esther was risking her life by approaching the king and she has no idea how the king will react. We know from previous chapters that he is prone to rash, angry decisions. First, the king does not know that she is a Jew. Second, Esther doesn't know if the king will choose her over Haman, his trusted advisor. If the king chooses to side with Haman, then Esther and her people will be killed.   But she must have courage and take the risk–the stakes are too high. God calls all of us to take risks. Let's hope our risks aren't quite as scary as Esther's but they might be! The reality is that the Christian walk was never intended to be comfortable and easy. The Holy Spirit is constantly prompting us to take risks: go talk to that person, volunteer for that organization, reach out to that neighbor, offer to pray with that person over there, give money here...you get the idea. The big question is are we listening and are we obeying?   Back to the Scripture...Esther again puts herself out there, asking the king one more difficult thing. The king had decreed that all Jews would be eliminated. Thus, another edict must be made that superseded the previous one. Esther knows this so she pleads with the king to overrule the horrible decree made by Haman so her people could be saved. The king basically allows Esther and Mordecai to create the new decree themselves and hands over his signet ring so they can seal it on behalf of the king. The new decree was strong. It guaranteed that the Jewish people could protect themselves, giving them the right to annihilate and plunder any group who tried to conquer or harm them. It even designated a specific date on which the Jews could attack their enemies.   In chapter 8, we read about Mordecai. He has the privilege of delivering the news of the new decree to the Jewish people. By this point, the roles have been totally reversed for Mordecai. No longer does he need to sit by the king's gate in ash cloth. No longer does he need to worry about his life or the fate of his people. He is the victor, but only because a young queen was willing to do the right thing and risk it all for the sake of her people. What is God calling you to do right now? What excuses are you making? How does this text inspire you to step out in faith?   As mentioned, the new decree, written by Esther and Mordecai, allowed the Jewish people a specific day on which to attack their enemies, the 13th of the Jewish month Adar. As you read through chapter 9, you find that is exactly what occurred. The Jewish men assembled and killed thousands of their enemies. Then, on the following day, they rested and feasted.   This was the beginning of an annual celebration for the Jews called Purim. Purim means “lots” in ancient Persian. The holiday was thus named since Haman had thrown lots to determine when he would carry out his evil scheme. Purim is still celebrated among devout Jews. On the eve of Purim, they read the book of Esther and then do so again on the following day. There is also much gift-giving. They are to send monetary gifts to at least two poor people and then two food gifts to at least one other person. There is also much feasting and celebrating.   I have to admit when I first read about this, it sounded a bit gory. Are they really celebrating the death of all those people? But I had to reframe it. The Jews had been oppressed. They had received a death sentence. And then, they were freed from it. They had the ability to protect their families. They knew God was with them. This was worthy of celebration.   Let's move to the final chapter in Esther.  Not unlike Joseph in an earlier Old Testament text, Mordecai moves from lowly and close to death to the king's right-hand man. While God isn't explicitly mentioned, we know that God acted extraordinarily to orchestrate the events of this story.   Today's chapter was short but it gave me pause to reflect on the book of Esther as a whole. What can we learn from this book? ·If you are a Christ-follower, God has a purpose for your life. You exist to love and glorify God AND to demonstrate his love and goodness to the world. •God didn't make a mistake where he has you today. God put Esther exactly where he needed and wanted her to be. God has you where you need to be as well. How might God want to use you right now? •Sometimes, living into your purpose means making big, difficult decisions but it is often lived out in the small, everyday decisions of life.   Our New Testament text is Revelation 3. Here, John continues to proclaim the visions that Jesus has given him about the churches. Chapter 2 focused on Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, and Thyatira. This chapter addresses the rest of the churches of Asia Minor, including Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Since we focused on the structure and flow of the letters on Thursday, I wanted to highlight the message to one particular church today–Laodicea.   I think it is incredibly important for all of us who are part of the American church. Laodicea was a very wealthy city. It was on a main trade route and it had several prosperous industries. It was known for its banking. It was also known for a black dye that it produced which was used to make black wool, quite a luxurious commodity in those days. It also had a respected medical school which developed an eye medicine that was quite sought after. But despite its wealth, the one really big problem that Laodicea had was lack of a water supply. Its northern neighbor, Hierapolis, had these amazing hot springs. It's other close neighbor, Colossae, to the east, had a lovely refreshing cold water supply. As a result, Laodicea built an elaborate system to pipe the water from both those places into their city. But by the time it got there, it was not hot, nor cold, but simply lukewarm. Jesus has harsher words for Laodicea than any of the other churches. He says that just like their water, they are lukewarm! Hot water heals, cold water refreshes, but lukewarm water is useless. They are spiritually lukewarm; they are spiritually useless.   The thing is that they looked good on the outside. They went through all the motions. They worshiped, read Scripture, and sang hymns. But it was phony piety. Their hearts were far from God. There was no passion for Jesus. And they didn't even realize this. In fact, because of their wealth and prosperity, they thought they were doing quite well. Largely sheltered from the persecution that other Christian communities in the area experienced, they were free to do as they pleased.   And what they were doing was not pleasing to God. They were self-reliant, complacent, lazy, and passionless. Not good traits for a church. But despite their spiritual mess, Jesus loves them and still yearns for them. He stands at the door and knocks, waiting for them to answer it. He wants a real relationship with them. He wants them to be passionate for his love.   Think about the American church. Think about our church for that matter. Are we lukewarm? Do we resemble Laodicea. In which ways? I'm not saying this to be critical but because I'm convicted. Do we serve God with passion? Are we simply going through the motions? Have we become stagnant?   Rate your passion level based on the following: -Do you experience joy and excitement in your prayer life? -Do you read Scripture with expectancy of hearing from the Lord? -Do you have spiritual conversations with non-Christians? -Do you actively seek out relationships with non-Christians so you can demonstrate the love of Christ to them? -Do you look for ways to serve Jesus and reach out to those who are struggling/hurting in our community? -What's the last time you felt really excited about your spiritual walk with Jesus? -As a church, are we passionate about being disciples who make disciples?   Are our hearts close to God? I'll stop there but do take some time to let this all sink in a bit. God wants our whole heart and life, not just some of it. He wants us to be passionate as individual believers and a church.   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Daily Dose of Hope February 27, 2025 Day 5 of Week 48 Scripture:  Esther 4-6; Revelation 2 Welcome to the Daily Dose of Hope, the devotional and podcast that complements the New Hope Church Bible reading plan.  Our Old Testament Scripture for today is Esther 4-6.  In chapter 4, we get to the crux of the story. The fate of the Jewish people falls into the hands of the new Jewish queen. But wait, the king doesn't know she is a Jew! Mordecai implores her to approach Xerxes and plead for the safety of her people. But this isn't as easy as it sounds. One didn't just show up in front of the king. He was supposed to summon her and he had not done so for a while. If Esther approached him, she was literally taking her life into her hands. If it pleased the king, he might allow her to approach. If it didn't, well then things could get messy. But Mordecai tells Esther that just because she lives in the palace, there was no guarantee she would be spared. Could it be that God put her into this position for such a time as this? Could it be that God had strategically placed her there to do what was right and stand up for her people? Could it be that sovereign God had orchestrated all the pieces? Now, she simply had to respond with courage. Most of us have never been in such a dangerous and potentially deadly situation. That's probably a good thing! However, many of us have found ourselves in difficult or serious situations, possibly in the workplace, at church, or even in a family crisis. Have you ever found yourself in a position where you simply knew that God had you there for a purpose? You were there for such a time as this. How did you respond? In chapter 5, we get to see more of Haman's arrogance.  Haman is a piece of work! After being invited to Esther's banquet, he sees Mordecai and is enraged that Mordecai does not rise in his presence or show fear. I can't help but think what kind of man needs other men to be fearful in their presence. This is someone who is delusional about their own importance and/or has deep-rooted feelings of insecurity. Maybe both. Haman then calls together his wife and his friends to brag about how great he is. The only thing that bothers him, he tells this group, is that Mordecai is still sitting at the king's gate. Their solution is to have Mordecai impaled on a pole before Esther's next banquet so that Haman can fully enjoy it. The horror of their suggestion should not go unnoticed. Haman's own feelings of grandiosity (and his friends desire to please him) have become so inflated that nothing else matters. A gruesome public execution for a seemingly very small offense would serve to demonstrate to the world who has power and who does not. It would instill fear and keep people in line. As you can tell, there is little value placed on human life as well. They are living in the Persian Empire. There was no issue with slaughtering all the Jews, men, women, and children. Actually valuing human life is a Judeo-Christian concept. Jesus especially changed our thinking by demonstrating that all lives are valuable to God. Because all people are made in the image of God, every single life has value. God loves everyone. And our last chapter of Esther for today is chapter 6.  The king couldn't sleep so he has the record of his reign read aloud to him. This is a man who likes to hear about his own exploits. Regardless, he finally learns about the incident in which Mordecai uncovers a conspiracy to assassinate the king. The king realizes that Mordecai was never rewarded for this and so he asks Haman what should be done to a man who greatly pleases the king. Haman, totally self-obsessed, thinks the king is referring to him so he chooses a grand reward: wearing the a royal robe and being paraded around the city on one of the king's horses. Things are beginning to be turned upside down. While Haman was originally planning on killing Mordecai that day, he ends up being the one who parades him around the city.  Our New Testament reading is Revelation 2. John's first vision from the risen Lord includes messages to the seven churches of Asia Minor. We can think of these as “love letters” of sorts. Remember, Jesus knew the churches inside and out. He knew the pastors, the participants, the struggles, and the joys. He loved each church very much and wanted them to be effective and fruitful. Each church letter starts with this message, “to the angel at the church of...” Who were these angels? In the ancient Greek, the word angel is usually translated messenger. Who were the messengers? Most scholars agree that the messengers would have been the pastor of the church. As the shepherd of the flock, they were to bring the message to the people. The message itself was from Jesus. He is the one who holds the seven stars and walks among the lampstands (referring to the churches), he is the first and the last who came to life again, he is the one who has the sharp, double-edged sword, and he is the one whose eyes are blazing fire and feet are burnished bronze. These may not be typical images we have for Jesus but they give us another perspective of our Lord and Savior. Remember, he is the one who will return to defeat Satan and conquer evil forever. He is the lamb of God but he is also so much more. Each love letter to a church also lists the things the church is doing well (compliments) and things that are going wrong (criticisms). Remember, Jesus wants to encourage them but he also wants them to be who they are called to be. Kind of like our children, we want to see them grow and thrive and so discipline is important. We all need accountability. Without it, we will drift away from God. Because Jesus loved these churches so much, he provides them the remedy to fix whatever their problems were. At times, his words seem harsh. They need to be. This is a matter of eternal importance. It's urgent. The letters close with a commitment from Jesus. To those who have ears to hear, let them hear what the Spirit is saying to them. This means not simply hearing it, but heeding it. If they do, then Jesus gives them a promise. In this case, it's to eat from the tree of life, which means to have eternal life with God. The paradise of God could be thought of as heaven. Think of what the first hearers of this message must be experiencing. How they needed to focus on this promise! What about you? Blessings, Pastor Vicki  

Daily Dose of Hope February 26, 2025 Day 4 of Week 48   Scripture:  Esther 1-3; Psalm 139; Revelation 1   Welcome back to the Daily Dose of Hope!  This is the devotional and podcast that goes along with the Bible reading plan at New Hope Church in Brandon, Florida.   Let's start with our Old Testament reading in Esther.  It was in 539BC that King Cyrus of Persia conquered Babylon. A year later, he allowed the Jewish people to end their exile and return to Jerusalem (2 Chronicles 36). But not all of them went. They had lives and livelihoods and the journey to Jerusalem would mean picking up and moving after generations in Babylon/Persia. Esther and her family, who this book is about, for whatever reason decide to stay put. They give us a picture of what it looks like to be a faithful Jew in a foreign land.   In the first chapter, we meet King Xerxes, who ruled Persia from 485 to 465BC. It was a very large kingdom and Xerxes expanded its borders quite a bit, all the way to what it now Pakistan to the east and Ethiopia to the south. While he may have been a good military commander and strategist, he struggled in the “don't get drunk and mess up your marriage” area, as we can see in today's text. Xerxes had thrown a huge banquet with many diplomats and important people from all over the region. He flaunts his wealth and then wants to flaunt his wife.   Most Jewish scholars think that when Xerxes asked Vashti to display her royal crown, it meant that he wanted her to appear naked in front of this large group of inebriated men. Vashti, his wife, isn't having it. Women in those days had almost no say so in marriage, particularly if one was married to the king. And yet, something gave Vashti courage to say I'm not going to be paraded around like property before this group of drunk men. Maybe this had happened before. Regardless, it was a recipe for disaster and it would have been against custom of staying covered.   But Xerxes had unilateral power. To refuse a command of the king, especially in front of others, would most certainly have consequences. Vashti was willing to subject herself to them. She would rather lose her position in society than lose her dignity. She was brave, and while she knew it would mean something harsh, it was worth it to her. Sure enough, the king, probably under the influence of alcohol and without giving it much thought, decrees that Vashti is never to be in his presence again. Vashti has courageously served and now exited. God is making a way for someone else who will serve for a very specific purpose.   In chapter two, the search is on for a new queen. It's quite the process as well. Beautiful virgins from far and wide are brought into the palace for all kinds of exceptional beauty treatments. Esther is one of those women. Esther was a Jew. She didn't reveal her identity to anyone but she was part of the Jewish diaspora, the Jews who were spread outside of Jerusalem, trying to live faithfully in pagan lands.   She had been raised by her cousin, Mordecai, who we also meet in this chapter. He loves Esther like his own daughter and is filled with much advice for her. Esther is exceptionally beautiful and she catches the eye of the king more than any other woman. We also know that God is ensuring that she is chosen to be queen because there is something important that Esther will need to do for her people.   While God is not explicitly mentioned in the book of Esther, it is certainly a book that demonstrates the sovereignty of God. What does it mean that God is sovereign? It means that God is all-powerful and authoritative. He is ruler of the universe and is in all and over all. No matter the situation, God is present and God is at work. But unlike Xerxes, who uses his power selfishly, God uses his power in a moral, righteous way. He seeks what is best for his creation.   There is an interesting subplot at the end of the second chapter, in which Mordecai saves the king's life. This is a small but important piece to remember and tuck away for later in the book.   In chapter three, we meet Haman.  Haman is a real piece of work. He hears that Mordecai won't kneel down before him and he is enraged. Of course, we know that Mordecai is a Jew. He is only supposed to bow down before God. I'm thinking this plays in to Mordecai's refusal but it could be that Mordecai knows Haman is a royal jerk and he simply won't give him the pleasure. One can't help noticing the similarity between Mordecai and Vashti in this story. Both refuse to honor men who do not deserve to be honored and they do so knowing there will be consequences.   And there are consequences. Haman, who seems to be evil inside and out, decides he doesn't just want to punish Mordecai but his whole people group. He wants to ensure that all the Jewish people are killed. Let's think about the absurdity of this: Haman wants to kill all the Jews in the kingdom because one Jew, Mordecai, refused to kneel before him. Haman senses that Mordecai is a threat to his power and he wants to punish that threat mercilessly. Thus, Haman devises a plan. He presents this idea to King Xerxes. There is a “certain group” of people who contaminate his empire and it is not in his best interest to tolerate them. Haman has a ready-made plan for elimination and it even involves a monetary bribe. Xerxes either doesn't want to be bothered or is incredibly gullible. He basically passes his authority to Haman and says “do what you will” with an entire group of people.   Most of us will read this with a certain amount of horror. How appalling it is that a whole people group could be eliminated with nothing more than a flip of the hand. And yet, this scene, with different characters, has been repeated throughout human history over and over again. What is it about us as humans that we demonize whole groups of people? That we fail to value human life?   For our New Testament reading, we begin Revelation, one of the most difficult and misunderstood books of the Bible. It's going to be a great journey! The book was written by the apostle John, much later in his life, while he was exiled on the island of Patmos. Revelation was sent as a circular letter to the seven churches of Asia Minor, to be passed from church to church and read aloud. It was intended to address the real needs of real people. For some churches, it was a word of encouragement in the midst of terrible persecution to give them a bigger perspective; there was more going on in the world than they could see or imagine. To other churches, it was a word of conviction. But most of all, it was prophecy.   Let's be careful to not mix up prophecy with prediction. Prophecy is a divine message. Thus, Revelation is a word from God by his angel to John. It is God revealing that which was previously unknown. The beginning of today's chapter, verses 1-8, serves as a kind of prologue. It introduces the author and general theme of the book. Then, the book goes right into four visions that John received from the risen Lord.   In our culture and reading style, we tend to be very concerned with words. Revelation is really more about images. My encouragement would be to not get caught up in taking the words literally but focus more on the images that your mind sees as you read the passage. Remember, this was intended to provide a broadened perspective, a more eternal one, for people who were being harshly persecuted and even tortured for their faith. This book demonstrates that while evil may feel overwhelming, it will NOT have the final word. There is more to the world than that which we see with our human eyes. There is a battle going on. And in the end, Jesus wins.   One additional note for today. The Scripture says that those who read it will be blessed, as are those who hear it and take it to heart. First, try to imagine how those words must have resonated with the first hearers of this message. It was the end of the first century and Christians were very much harassed and oppressed in many of these areas. How encouraging it would have been for them to hear this word of promise and blessing. While we live in a different time and culture, the Scripture also applies to us. I trust that we will also be blessed by reading this book and blessed as we try to understand it and take it to heart. I ask that we all pray for open hearts and minds as we begin this journey into this exciting and complex book of the Bible!   Blessings, Pastor Vicki

Scripture:  Esther 4:14-16,Esther 6:6-10, Esther 9:20-22, Galatians 3:13, Philippians 2:6-11 Speaker:  Scott Meyer Summary: The sermon focuses on the story of Esther and how God's providence works even when He seems silent. It highlights the key characters—King Xerxes, Esther, Mordecai, and Haman—and the unfolding drama of Haman's plot to destroy the Jews, which is ultimately overturned through Esther's courage and divine intervention. Scott emphasizes three key takeaways: God's silence does not mean His absence, the importance of having wise counsel like Mordecai, and the danger of settling for a "shadow mission" rather than God's true purpose. Esther's willingness to risk her life for her people mirrors Christ's sacrifice, as Jesus stepped down from glory to save humanity. Ultimately, the sermon challenges listeners to reflect on their own divine opportunities and to use them for God's purpose rather than personal comfort.

Scripture: Esther 5-7Big Idea: The “Joy to the World” is greater than joy of the world.Joy of the world doesn't lastThe Joy to the World can't be taken away.It's a joy for tomorrow and a joy for today.Youtube Link

Scripture: Esther 1:1-22Big Idea: Regardless of powerful godless leaders, God is with us in the miraculous and the mundane, producing confidence in uncertainty and a way of hope in all thingsGod is Sovereign. He Is in control of all things.People make a variety of decisions.Our decisions fit into God's sovereign planWe grow in a confident expectation of good things to come.Youtube LinkSermon Slides

Esther: Tracing the Hand of the Invisible God (Part 9)Scripture: Esther 9 & 10Sermon Preached by Chris Lewis on October 20, 2024→ Check out more sermons

September 29, 2024, The Rev. Dr. Brian Lays, Scripture: Esther 7:1–6, 9–10, 9:20–22; James 5:13–20

Worship: Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost; Minister: Rev. Debbie Weatherspoon; Message: "Uncommon Wisdom"; Music director: Scott Jespersen; Scripture: Esther 7: 1-3; Worship Leaders: Caroline Lee, Melanie Green, Katherine Whitney, Cathy Travlos, Susan Willm; Livestream producer: Frances Portis; Audio engineer: Paul Nasman; Podcast producer: Ethan Toven-Lindsey

Esther: Tracing the Hand of the Invisible God (Part 1)Scripture: Esther 1:1-22Sermon Preached by Chris Lewis on August 11, 2024→ Check out more sermons

Speaker: Hannah Jones // Date: Sunday 11 Aug 2024 // Scripture: Esther 4:6-17

Guest speaker Ben Connolly brings us the final sermon in our series on Esther. SCRIPTURE: Esther 9:20-10:3

Kirsten continues in our series in Esther with a message on God and the Evil One. SCRIPTURE: Esther 7:1-10

Pete continues our sermon series in Esther with a message on Esther 6 God in His Providence. SCRIPTURE: Esther 6-1-14

Pete Greenwood continues our series in Esther looking at how power can be used for the sake of others. SCRIPTURE: Esther 5:1-14

Kirsten continues our series in Esther on the topic of God in Our Choices. SCRIPTURE: Esther 4:1-17

Pete continues in our series on the book of Esther with a message on God in the Injustice. SCRIPTURE: Esther 2:19-3:15

Jon begins our series in Esther: God in the Silence talking about the context of Esther, the exposure of the powerful and the elevation of the powerless. SCRIPTURE: Esther 1:1-2:18

Sunday Sermon February 04, 2024 | Scripture: Esther 4:10-14

SCRIPTURE: Esther 9:20 – 10:3SHOW NOTES: Mordecai sent letters to the Jews instructing them to have days of feasting and gladness on the fourteenth and fifteenth days of Adar. They were to send gifts of food to one another and gifts to the poor. Their sorrow was turned to gladness and mourning to a holiday! Queen Esther also wrote a letter in words of peace and truth and the command to observe Purim was written in the official royal records for future generations to follow. Fasting and feasting should be important elements in our spiritual practices. Examples of both are found in the Bible. Fasting is a time set apart for prayer and consecration unto the Lord. It includes thoughtful consideration of our lives (our words, behavior, and deeds). This is time we devote to seeking the Lord. Feasting is a time of remembrance and celebration. Much joy and gladness fill our hearts during times of holiday and feasting. As this wonderful book closes, we know God's name and prayer are never mentioned. But we certainly observe God's fingerprints and acknowledge His sovereign plan woven into every part of this story. We are thankful for the courage, strength, and boldness of Mordecai the Jew and Queen Esther. SONG: "The Lord Almighty Reigns" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TLPUYk1W1AE&list=PL0ONU3wVC9D0hGrooLAEKK0-BH2_fONuM

SCRIPTURE: Esther 9:1-19 SHOW NOTES: The book of Esther is filled with many twists and turns – people in positions of power, and others who are wicked and evil. Where is God? Has He forgotten the Jewish people spread through the 127 provinces of the Persian kingdom? “On this day the enemies of the Jews had hoped to overpower them, but now the tables were turned, and the Jews got the upper hand over those who hated them.” Haman's edict had given others the legal authority to kill the Jews and take all their property. The second edict, written by Mordecai and Queen Esther, allowed the Jews to gather and defend themselves against these violent attacks on their families. God is at work in this story. Remember, the details of our lives are part of God's beautiful purpose. It's a tapestry, woven according to His design and plan. “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands.” (Psalm 138:8) SONG: "Battle Belongs" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=johgSkNj3-A

SCRIPTURE: Esther 8:1-17 SHOW NOTES: Following Haman's death, the king gave Queen Esther the house of Haman. Mordecai is given the authority and signet ring Haman used to issue the decree of death to the Jews. A major role reversal has occurred between Haman and Mordecai. But the story is not over. Haman's royal decree had been written and declared throughout the entire kingdom calling for the destruction of the Jewish people. Queen Esther pleaded with the king to avert the evil plan of Haman and the plot that he had devised against the Jews. The king gives permission for the queen and Mordecai to write a new edict with regard to the Jews and seal it with the king's ring. They have been given full permission to destroy and kill those who would seek to destroy or kill them. The Jews were allowed to protect themselves, children, women, and their property against attacks from others in the kingdom. And in every province and in every city, wherever the king's command and his edict reached, there was gladness and joy among the Jews, a feast and a holiday.SONG: "Battle Belongs" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=johgSkNj3-A

This sermon was preached by Pastor John Meador at Cross City Church in Euless, TX on November 12, 2023. Sermon Series: Foster and Adoption. Scripture: Esther 2:5-11 If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this church and its ministries, you can do so by visiting crosscity.church/give and making a one-time or recurring donation. For more resources from Pastor John Meador, visit www.JohnMeador.com

SCRIPTURE: Esther 6:14 – 7:10 SHOW NOTES: Do we wait for the Lord or are we prone to run ahead, devising our own plans to “fix” the problem? As we reach this point in the story of Esther, she could have revealed her request either in the throne room or at the first feast with the king and Haman. While she entertained them at this first feast, Esther extended yet another invitation for a second feast. Once again, King Ahasuerus asks Esther, “What is your wish, Queen Esther? It shall be granted you. And what is your request?” The Queen had prepared herself and waited to present her case to the king. Now, she humbly asks him to grant mercy for herself and her people from a wicked foe and enemy! "Then you will know that I am the Lord; those who wait for me shall not be put to shame.” (Isa. 49:23) SONG: "I Will Wait for You" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYtldi9TF50

SCRIPTURE: Esther 6:1-13 / 1 Chronicles 29:11-13 SHOW NOTES: The book of Esther is complicated – filled with twists and turns, intrigue, plays for power in the palace including assassination plots! One night King Ahasuerus is unable to sleep and he calls for his attendants to read the court history book to him – it's a day-to-day journal. The king learns Mordecai uncovered a plot by two eunuchs to murder him. He's troubled and asks, “Was this man ever honored?” When the king learns that Haman is in the palace, he seeks his advice. Haman presents his suggestions on how to best honor the man whom the king delights to honor in an eloquent manner. However, what follows is a shocking directive that takes everyone, especially Haman, by surprise! Honor and blessing come from the hand of God – according to His plan and purpose and, in His time. “For You bless the righteous, O Lord; You cover him with favor as with a shield.” (Psalm 5:12) SONG: "Speak O Lord" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qy_XbGrnTlY&list=RDqy_XbGrnTlY&start_radio=1

SCRIPTURE: Esther 5:1-14 SHOW NOTES: Queen Esther has appealed to her uncle, Mordecai. “Gather all the Jews in Susa and fast with me for three days and three nights. Then, I will go to the king, and if I perish, I perish.” What happened during those three days of fasting? Remember there was great fear – weeping, mourning, and lamenting when the Jews learned of the king's decree. While prayer is not specifically mentioned, when people fast, they typically turn their focus and time toward God. These are Jewish people and they have heard the history of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Remember the mighty deeds of the Lord. He rescued His people from Egypt and brought them into the Land of Promise. For three days, Queen Esther prepared herself and we believe she was seeking wisdom, guidance, and direction. How would she address the king? Esther's example is set before us – to prepare her mind and her heart. Stand with strength and dignity. Then, walk in wisdom as she prepared to make her request known to the king. SONG: "Perfect Wisdom of Our God" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hSnzYnOe6kI

SCRIPTURE: Esther 4:1-17SHOW NOTES: As you turn the page to chapter four in the book of Esther, you quickly recognize a pivotal point in this story. Haman has initiated a plan to exact his revenge – not just on Mordecai but a plan that will bring destruction to every Jew in the empire. Mordecai learns of the decree that has been written, signed, and sent to every province and his immediate reaction is to tear his clothes, put on sackcloth and mourn with a loud and bitter cry. In fact, there was great mourning among the Jews. Across the empire, the Jewish people were fasting and weeping and lamenting. Mordecai sent word by Hathach the eunuch to Queen Esther saying, “Command her to go to the king to beg his favor and plead with him on behalf of her people.” The Queen's reply, “All the king's servants and the people of the king's provinces know that if any man or woman goes to the king inside the inner court without being called, there is but one law—to be put to death, except the one to whom the king holds out the golden scepter so that he may live.”Mordecai sends this message back to Esther, “For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”SONG: "Let God" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oQpPyMTG25Y

SCRIPTURE: Esther 3:7-15 SHOW NOTES: The book of Esther draws the reader into a real-life story filled with drama and intrigue. While the name of God is never specifically mentioned, we believe God was setting the stage and preparing to protect and provide for His people. Now in chapter three, King Ahasuerus appoints a man named Haman to the second highest position in the kingdom. This man is filled with pride, and he desires power. When Mordecai, a Jew, will not bow to him or honor him, Haman sets out to devise a plan to not only kill Mordecai but to destroy all the Jews in the kingdom of Ahasuerus. SONG: "Way Maker" – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=29IxnsqOkmQSONG: "Way Maker" in Hebrew, Arabic & English (Worship by Jews & Arabs) – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhbtVCI67pw

SCRIPTURE: Esther 2:19 – 3:6 SHOW NOTES: The book of Esther is a real story rooted in the middle of palace life in ancient Persia. This story is filled with intrigue, power, and selfish ambition. Esther has been named the Queen of Persia. She has not revealed to anyone that she is Jewish, just as her uncle, Mordecai, had instructed her. He has been appointed to a government position and while sitting at the king's gate, Mordecai overhears a plot to kill the king. He reports this to Queen Esther and after investigation, the two eunuchs are hanged. The king now promotes a man named Haman to the second highest position in the court and everyone is commanded to bow before him. However, Mordecai would not bow to another person, and this was reported to Haman. How do we act toward other people when we are promoted or when they are promoted? “Haman sought to destroy all the Jews, the people of Mordecai, throughout the whole kingdom of Ahasuerus.” But there's history here. We must go back to King Saul, hundreds of years before, to an act of disobedience. SONG: "Known" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95xd7qVP-90

We worship together in-person and stream our service each week. If you would like to watch the entire worship service, it is available to view on YouTube at www.youtube.com/@WPCRICHMOND/streams.Join us there, live, on Sundays at 10:00 am.This morning, we welcome Geoffrey Gichuki, our guest preacher.Scripture: Esther 4:1-16 and Acts 9:36-42

SCRIPTURE: Esther 2:1-18SHOW NOTES: The second chapter in the book of Esther begins, “After these things,” so we ask this question, “What things?” King Ahasuerus had hosted a military planning session in Susa for 180 days that concluded with a 7-day feast “where wine was abundant.” The King summoned Queen Vashti to appear before him and his guests. But she refused and he removed her from the throne as Queen. Soon after He turned his attention to Greece where his mighty troops met a severe disaster and defeat. Returning home, he is surrounded by life in the Persian palace, and he remembers Queen Vashti and all that had happened. The king's advisors suggest that officers in all the provinces of his kingdom gather beautiful young virgins and bring them to the harem in Susa the citadel. There was a Jew in Susa named Mordecai, who had been carried away from Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. He was raising Hadassah (that is Esther), the daughter of his uncle, as his own daughter. The young woman had a beautiful figure and was lovely to look at, and her father and her mother had died. She is brought to the palace harem, and very quickly Esther began winning favor in the eyes of all who saw her. SONG: "Look To Me" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iu8t9D1SZys

SCRIPTURE: Esther 1:10-22 SHOW NOTES: This story is set in a vast empire under the rule of a pagan king. Described as one who ruled the entire known world, the king spent half a year engaged in strategic meetings with his government officials and military leaders. Now, King Ahasuerus hosts a lavish seven day banquet for these leaders while Queen Vashti hosts a feast in the palace for the women. In Esther, chapter one we read, “On the seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman, Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha and Abagtha, Zethar and Carkas, the seven eunuchs who served in the presence of King Ahasuerus, to bring Queen Vashti before the king with her royal crown, in order to show the peoples and the princes her beauty, for she was lovely to look at.” However, the queen refused to appear before the king and all of these men who were “merry with wine” after seven days of feasting. Her decision to defy the command of King Ahasuerus stirred great anger in his heart. The counsel of seven advised that Vashti would never again come before King Ahasuerus and her royal position should be given to another woman. What has happened here? This is a king who ruled with an iron fist and demanded complete obedience. We read in 1 Peter 2:16, “Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” SONG: "King of Kings" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Of5IcFWiEpg

SCRIPTURE: Esther 1:1-9 SHOW NOTES: As we begin this new season – A Crown with Purpose – it's important to share some of the historical and cultural setting. “In those days King Ahasuerus sat on his royal throne in Susa, the citadel, in the third year of his reign he gave a feast for all his officials and servants. The army of Persia and Media and the nobles and governors of the provinces were before him.” This is a powerful king who ruled over the largest kingdom (127 provinces) in the known world and yet he wanted more. The book of Esther is included in the Old Testament even though some scholars have debated and argued against this book's inclusion. God's name is not mentioned anywhere in the book and yet as faithful students of the Word of God pour over these chapters and verses; they see God's fingerprints in the story. We will see very clearly that the big theme of this book is the providence of God. God is operating “behind the scenes” to accomplish His purposes and to preserve His people. His providence is all inclusive. No person or detail of life escapes God's control. SONG: "Our God Is In Control" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Xj3jf-8Sj8

Evening Service- "Why is the Story of Esther Important Today?" Scripture: Esther 4:7-16

For such a time as this

We are back with our next sermon series titled, God's Will: Unraveling the Mystery. Over the next three-weeks we are looking at what God's will is for different areas of our lives. To start off we are looking at the big picture of God's will in our individual lives. Tune in to Pastor Chris Jones as he shares the message, “God's Will for My Life.” Scripture: Esther 4:13-14; Colossians 1:9-10

This Sunday we conclude our sermon series here at Asbury titled, “Behind the Veil”. Over the past week six-weeks we have looked at different women of the old testament and how important their stories are to the overall message of God. This week we end the series with Esther, who pushed past fear and used her voice to save her people. Tune in as Pastor Will Kendust shares the message, “Esther Balboa?” Scripture: Esther 4:14-17

Haman, the enemy of Queen Esther, is one of the most vivid case studies in the Bible of unchecked pride. We learn three things from the account of Haman: 1) The character of pride; 2) The deadliness of pride; 3) The cure for pride. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on April 29, 2007. Series: Esther and the Hiddenness of God. Scripture: Esther 3:1-6; 6:1-10. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

This sermon looks at the first two chapters of the book of Esther, which shows us how to follow God in morally, spiritually, and culturally ambiguous situations. We will see that 1) God is always at work in spite of appearances; 2) The world is obsessed with appearances; and 3) God's work can free us from enslavement to the world's ways. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on April 15, 2007. Series: Esther and the Hiddenness of God. Scripture: Esther 2:5-10;16-23. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

At the end of the book of Esther, we see the nation of Israel receive a holiday, a day of rest from their enemies. God promised Israel that rest was going to be the upshot of his salvation. In this text we see three things: 1) How Esther got rest from her enemies; 2) How Jesus gets us rest from our enemies; 3) How we can have rest from our enemies. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on May 6, 2007. Series: Esther and the Hiddenness of God. Scripture: Esther 7:1-10; 9:20-23. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

The book of Esther poses a fascinating question to us: In such morally, culturally, spiritually ambiguous situations as this, does God still work with us? We'll see how God works in this passage under three headings: 1) The importance of being in the palace; 2) The danger of being in the palace; and 3) How to live in the palace with greatness. This sermon was preached by Dr. Timothy Keller at Redeemer Presbyterian Church on Apr 22, 2007. Series: Esther and the Hiddenness of God. Scripture: Esther 4:5-17. Today's podcast is brought to you by Gospel in Life, the site for all sermons, books, study guides and resources from Timothy Keller and Redeemer Presbyterian Church. If you've enjoyed listening to this podcast and would like to support the ongoing efforts of this ministry, you can do so by visiting https://gospelinlife.com/give and making a one-time or recurring donation.

Sermon Series: Heroes of the Bible; Speaker: Pastor Shane Haffey; Scripture: Esther 5:1-8Support the show

Pastor Brandon's wife shares a narration of the story of Esther through a collection of journal entries from various characters.

May 22, 2022Title: EstherBig Idea: God uses us to bring His salvation.Scripture: Esther 1-10Memory Verse: John 3:16-17Sermon Notes: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=z6HbZCuujYtRespond to Today's Message: http://thecreeksidechurch.org/respond

May 22, 2022 Title: Esther Big Idea: God uses us to bring His salvation. Scripture: Esther 1-10 Memory Verse: John 3:16-17 Sermon Notes: https://notes.subsplash.com/fill-in/view?page=z6HbZCuujYt Respond to Today's Message: http://thecreeksidechurch.org/respond

Series: Esther: Where's God When Everyone Is Wrong?Scripture: Esther 9:20-32We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show (https://www.citylightcb.org/give/)

Series: Esther: Where's God When Everyone Is Wrong?Scripture: Esther 8:1-9:19We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show (https://www.citylightcb.org/give/)

Series: Ruth: Where Is God When Everything Is Gone?Scripture: Esther 5:9-7:10We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show (https://www.citylightcb.org/give/)

Series: Ruth: Where Is God When Everything Is Gone?Scripture: Esther 4:1-5:8We hope you enjoyed listening to this message! If you'd like to stay updated on what God is doing at Citylight Council Bluffs, be sure to follow us:Citylight Council BluffsFacebookInstagramCitylight Council BluffsSunday Gatherings at 9:00 & 11:00 AMLivestream at 9:00 AM2109 Railroad Hwy, Council Bluffs, IA 51503Support the show (https://www.citylightcb.org/give/)