Esther - For Such a Time as This - Calvary Bible Church

Esther: For Such a Time as This - 9:20-10:3

July 21, 2024 • Pastor Chris Casoni • Esther 9:20—10:3

As we conclude our time in the book of Esther, we reflect on the lessons we've learned. God uses broken and unlikely vessels. God is sovereign and knows what is best for us. Evil will become a victim of its own devices. We must learn to navigate living as followers of God and living as good citizens in a pagan society. What a gift God has given us in the powerful reminder that God is working in all things. Like the Jews, we have much to delight in when we give attention to the person and work of God.

Esther: For Such a Time as This - 7:7-9:19

July 14, 2024 • Pastor Chris Casoni • Esther 7:7—9:19

In this passage, we'll look at three lessons of God’s Justice in the Story of Esther: we will reap what we sow, ultimate justice awaits, and when God is for us, none can stand against us. When we truly understand God's sovereignty, it should have an effect on our daily decisions.

Esther: For Such a Time as This - 5:1-7:6

July 7, 2024 • Pastor Chris Casoni • Esther 5:1—7:6

Chiastic structure is a literary device in which a sequence of ideas is presented and then presented in reverse order. For example, Ben Franklin said, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." The result is a mirror effect. At the climax of the story's structure, we see the reversal of events that bring life instead of death. Esther and Mordecai actively participate in the unfolding drama of Esther 5:1-7:6. Their courage, wisdom, and strategic actions demonstrate how God uses human agency to accomplish His purposes. We, too, have a role to play in God's grand narrative.

Esther: For Such a Time as This - Chapter 4

June 30, 2024 • Pastor Chris Casoni • Esther 4

Each of us has the opportunity to reflect on God’s person and work in history and our own lives. Chapter 4 powerfully displays the dichotomy of God’s sovereignty and man’s responsibility.

Esther: For Such a Time as This - Chapter 3

June 23, 2024 • Pastor Chris Casoni • Esther 3

In chapter 3 we read of the rise of the villain Haman and his plot to destroy the Jews. This story pictures Haman having all seven of the characteristics that Proverbs 6:16-19 says the Lord hates: a proud look, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that are swift in running to evil, a false witness who speaks lies, and one who sows discord among brethren. The story of Esther is another reminder that the greatest of villains are no match for our Great God!

Esther: For Such a Time as This - Chapter 2

June 16, 2024 • Pastor Chris Casoni • Esther 2

God's plan includes using imperfect people. In Esther 2, we'll see God's silent work, even though Esther and Mordecai had no knowledge that God would use them to save the Jews.

Esther: For Such a Time as This - Chapter 1

June 9, 2024 • Pastor Chris Casoni • Esther 1

We need to understand that God is at work behind the scenes of history, our present, and our future. When we look at present times we may ask “where is God in our world? What is our responsibility in it all? Where is God when he doesn’t seem to be at work in my situation?” Esther offers us a great example of God’s quiet sovereignty and our responsibility to make righteous choices in our own life for God’s glory and our joy.