1/22/2024 0 Comments Esther bible study outline![]() Just as Haman plotted against the Jews in order to destroy them, so has Satan set himself against Christ and God’s people. The entrance of Christ into the human race was predicated upon the existence of the Jewish race. In Esther, we are given a behind-the-scenes look at the ongoing struggle of Satan against the purposes of God and especially against His promised Messiah. God’s chosen people, without any direct mention of His name, were granted a stay of execution through the wisdom and humility of Esther. The institution of the Feast of Purim is written and preserved for all to see and is still observed today. She was not content with the destruction of Haman she was intent on saving her people. ![]() Esther risked her life by going not once uninvited before the king but twice, (Esther 5:1–2 8:3). In spite of the fact that the law allowing their destruction was written according to the laws of the Medes and Persians, rendering it unchangeable, the way was cleared for their prayers to be answered. Although the name of God is never mentioned in this book, it is apparent that the Jews of Susa sought His intervention when they fasted for three days (Esther 4:16). His plans eventually end up with his own demise, and the elevation of his enemy Mordecai to his own position, as well as the salvation of the Jews.įeasting is a major theme of this book: there are seven recorded banquets (Esther 1:3, 9 2:18 5:4–5 7:1–2 8:17 and 9:17–22), and many of the events were planned, plotted, or exposed at these banquets. Haman’s goal is the final effort recorded in the Old Testament period of the complete eradication of the Jews. At the center of this story is the ongoing division between the Jews and the Amalekites, which was recorded to have begun in the Book of Exodus. The hand of God is evident, in that what appears to be a bad situation is indeed very much under the control of the Almighty God, who ultimately has the good of the people at heart. Both accounts show the heroism of Israelite individuals who provide the means for the salvation of their people and nation. Both stories involve foreign monarchs who control the destiny of the Jews. She proved a wise and most worthy opponent, all the while remaining humble and respectful of the position of her husband-king.Įsther’s story is much like the story of Joseph in Genesis 41. She willingly did what could have been a deadly maneuver and took on the second-in-command of her husband‘s kingdom, Haman. The noble Esther risked her own death as she realized what was at stake. Chapters 1:1-2:18 – Esther replaces Vashti 2:19-7:10 – Mordecai overcomes Haman 8:1-10:3 – Israel survives Haman’s attempt to destroy them. The Book of Esther can be divided into three main sections. And who knows but that you have come to the royal position for such a time as this.Įsther 6:13 - Since Mordecai, before whom your downfall has begun, is of Jewish origin, you cannot stand against him - you will surely come to ruin!Įsther 7:3 - If I have found favor with you, O king, and if it pleases your majesty, grant me my life - this is my petition, and the life of my people - this is my request. Jews today still read Esther during Purim.Įsther 2:15 - Now when the time came for Esther to go to the king, she asked for nothing other than what Hegai, the king’s eunuch who was in charge of the harem, suggested.Įsther 4:14 - For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. The Book of Esther was read at the Feast of Purim to commemorate the great deliverance of the Jewish nation brought about by God through Esther. The Book of Esther records the institution of the Feast of Purim and the obligation of its perpetual observation. The purpose of the Book of Esther is to display the providence of God, especially in regard to His chosen people, Israel. The Book of Esther was likely written between 460 and 350 B.C.
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