Esther

Study Guide / Outline

Subtitle: Understanding God’s Faithfulness Amidst Adversity

Introduction

• Main Point: The importance of studying the Old Testament alongside the New Testament to gain a richer understanding of God’s Word.
• Key Message: The Old Testament reveals God’s character and works in different ways than the New Testament.
• Supporting Points:
  • Emphasizes the need to explore the Old Testament for a deeper faith.
  • Acknowledges the absence of worship in the book of Esther.
  • Defends Esther’s place in the Jewish Bible, as recognized by Jesus.

Authorship and Historical Background

• Main Point: Provides background information about the book of Esther, its setting, and potential authorship.
• Key Message: Esther is set in Persia during the years 485-465 BC.
• Supporting Points:
  • The uncertainty surrounding the author’s identity.
  • Mention of contemporaneous events in the book of Ezra.
  • The significance of the name “Esther.”

The Jewish People in Exile

• Main Point: Describes the state of the Jewish people who did not return to Judea after exile.
• Key Message: Many Jews had become complacent and lost their passion for God.
• Supporting Points:
  • The consequences of exile for the Jewish people.
  • The decline of true worship and commitment to God.
  • Drawing parallels between the Jews’ situation and modern Christianity.

God’s Faithfulness Despite Faithlessness

• Main Point: Highlights God’s faithfulness to His covenant even when His people are faithless.
• Key Message: God’s commitment to His covenant and relationship with His people remains unshaken.
• Supporting Points:
  • The central theme of God’s faithfulness in the book of Esther.
  • Emphasis on God’s providence in protecting His covenant people.

The Structure of the Book of Esther

• Main Point: Outlines the four main parts of the book of Esther.
• Key Message: The book is divided into sections that depict the crowning of Esther, the plot to exterminate the Jews, the defeat of the enemy, and the celebration of victory.
• Supporting Points:
  • Esther’s unique structure compared to other Old Testament books.
  • Each part’s role in unfolding the story of God’s intervention.

The Ordinary Providence of God

• Main Point: Explores how God’s providence operates subtly within the natural events of daily life.
• Key Message: God’s work may appear ordinary, but it is divinely orchestrated.
• Supporting Points:
  • Examples of everyday events that reveal God’s providence.
  • Encouragement to recognize God’s hand in daily life.

Mordecai’s Honor and Haman’s Downfall

• Main Point: Narrates the turn of events where Haman’s hatred backfires on him, leading to his downfall.
• Key Message: Haman’s hatred and evil plans are thwarted by divine intervention.
• Supporting Points:
  • Mordecai’s role in saving the king’s life.
  • Haman’s pride and arrogance leading to his own demise.
  • The ironic punishment of Haman on the gallows he built.

Esther’s Courage and God’s Deliverance

• Main Point: Focuses on Esther’s bravery in approaching the king to save her people.
• Key Message: Esther’s faith and courage play a crucial role in God’s deliverance of His people.
• Supporting Points:
  • Esther’s preparation to meet the king.
  • The king’s favor toward Esther.
  • The resulting decree allowing the Jews to defend themselves.

Conclusion and Application

• Main Point: Summarizes the overarching message of God’s faithfulness and the importance of trusting Him.
• Key Message: God can reverse destiny in a moment, and He works all things together for good.
• Supporting Points:
  • The story’s encouragement for readers to trust God’s providence.
  • The reminder that God cares about the details of our lives.