Where is God?

Grace Bible Church of Bend

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Where is God?

Esther 1:1-22

June 4, 2017 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Esther 1

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In this introductory sermon to the book of Esther, we are reminded that God is present and working even when it seems that he is not. The Jews were living in a foreign land, and in the book of Esther there is no mention of God’s name, the temple, or miracles. However, as the story unfolds we clearly see the providential hand of God. In the time of Esther as well as today, God is always there, sovereignly caring for his people.

Remember

July 30, 2017 • Pastor Neal Hackbarth • Esther 9—10

In this final sermon from the book of Esther, we are encouraged to remember all that the Lord has done for us. Through the introduction of Purim, the Jews celebrated and remembered God’s deliverance from their enemies and the rest which followed. Christ promises to give us rest if we come to him, yet we often choose counterfeits that do not satisfy or provide true rest. The Lord is our faithful deliverer. Do you celebrate what he has done, and look to him for peace and rest?

A Great Reversal of Fortune

July 23, 2017 • Pastor Neal Hackbarth • Esther 8

In this sermon from Esther chapter eight, we are reminded not to be discouraged when it seems that evil is prevailing. Ultimately, God’s blessing will fall upon his children, and his wrath upon his enemies. In the time of Esther evil had been plotted against the Jews, but in the end, God brought about a complete reversal. Nothing is impossible with God! He can take what is intended for evil and turn it for good. He is trustworthy and just, and we can rest in him.

Seven Steps to Justice

July 16, 2017 • Pastor Neal Hackbarth • Esther 7

In chapter seven of the book of Esther, the evil Haman is sentenced to death, the just penalty for his wickedness. Haman's death is a vivid reminder that God is just, and that in the end justice will always be served. As sinners, we all deserve Haman's end. None of us are righteous, but we are offered mercy and grace in Jesus Christ, who paid the debt we could not pay, satisfying the justice of a perfectly righteous God. Have you put your faith and hope in Christ, receiving the promise of mercy rather than destruction?