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?
The Last Shall Be First
July 9, 2017 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Esther 6
In this passage from Esther chapter six, the fate of God’s people begins to change. Through a series of seeming “coincidences,” God’s plan to protect his people begins to unfold. We are reminded once again that though his name is not mentioned in the book of Esther, God is at work and is always in control. In the lives of Haman and Mordecai, we see that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble, and that ultimately the last shall be first.
Faith and Foolishness
July 2, 2017 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Esther 5
In this sermon from Esther chapter five, we see the difference between acting in wisdom and faith versus acting in foolishness. Like Esther, disciples of Christ must pray, count the cost, and then act in obedience. We must trust that in whatever God calls us to do, he will be with us, extending to us the grace that we need. He has exactly where he wants us, and his plan and timing are perfect.
For Such a Time As This
June 25, 2017 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Esther 4
In this sermon from Esther chapter four, we see an example of how God calls imperfect people to carry out his perfect plan. Like Esther, believers are called to fear God rather than men, using their influence to touch the lives of those around them. God uses his faithful and obedient, yet imperfect children to carry out his will. How will you use your influence in the lives of the people around you? Are you living boldly for Christ in the service of others?
Suffering in a Broken World
June 18, 2017 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Esther 2:19—3:15
In this sermon from the book of Esther, we see that God has a plan, even in situations that are seemingly unjust. We live in a fallen world that is broken by sin. Throughout our lives, we will all face circumstances that seem unfair. We will encounter suffering and injustice. The story of Esther reminds us that God watches over every area of our lives. We can take comfort in knowing that he is always at work and that he is sovereign over all things.
God At Work in the Mess
June 11, 2017 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Esther 2:1–18
In this passage from Esther chapter two, we see that God is at work even in the messy lives of his people. Although this world is broken by sin, and believers often have sinful pasts full of darkness, God can still use them for his glory. The story of Esther reminds us that no matter how dark things get, God’s grace and presence are still there. God protects his people and keeps his promises.
Where is God?
June 4, 2017 • Pastor Phil Kooistra • Esther 1
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.
