Playlist: Esther, Book of (topic)
Proverbs 31 and the Wife of Christ (Part Three): Esther
Sermon by Mark SchindlerThe Book of Esther presents a vital depiction of the virtuous wife of Christ, embodying the principles of Proverbs 31 under the chaotic and violent circumstances of a world at enmity with God. Within this narrative, Esther emerges as a woman of valor, living among God's chosen people under the Persian government and the rule of …
Esther (Part Four)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe story of Esther is no different from other well-crafted narratives. In fact, it is more important because this story is one that God has included in His Word for our learning. When He constructs a story, He does not do it haphazardly. He constructs it in a way that we are going to get the most out of it. Those stories are …
Esther (Part Two)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Book of Esther stands out in the Bible for its emphasis on plot and characterization, which are vital to understanding its narrative. God desires that we read His Word with depth to gain wisdom about Him and His plan for mankind, striving for His happy ending. In Esther, these literary elements are elevated as major factors …
Esther (Part Five)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Book of Esther holds a significant place among Jewish celebrations, particularly through the holiday of Purim, observed on the 14th of Adar, and in walled cities like Jerusalem, on the 15th, as detailed in Esther 9:17-21. This distinction arises from the historical events in Shushan, a walled city, where the Jews fought for …
Esther (Part Three)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Book of Esther recounts a critical episode in the ongoing conflict between the descendants of Amalek and the people of Israel, portraying a deep-seated enmity that stretches back through generations. In this narrative, Haman, identified as an Agagite and a descendant of the Amalekites, emerges as a central figure of evil, …
Esther (Part One)
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Book of Esther is set in the post-exilic period, specifically between the completion of the Temple in 515 BC and the arrival of Ezra in Jerusalem around 458 or 457 BC, fitting between the end of Ezra 6 and the beginning of Ezra 7. This narrative unfolds entirely within the Persian Empire, centered in Shushan, also known as …
Psalms: Book Five (Part One): Psalms for the Winter Blues
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Book of Esther is one of the five Festival Scrolls, known as the Megilloth, which correspond to specific seasons in the Hebrew sacred year. Esther is associated with the winter season, aligning with the festival of Purim, celebrated between the 13th and 15th of Adar, the last month of the Hebrew calendar, just before …
Pentecost and the Book of Ruth
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Book of Esther is one of the five Megilloth, or festival scrolls, within the Jewish division of the Old Testament known as the Writings, or ketuvim in Hebrew. These scrolls are read during specific festival seasons, and Esther is designated for the celebration of Purim. This placement reflects its significance in …
Old Testament: Fruit of the Spirit (Part Three)
Sermon by Ronny H. GrahamThe book of Esther presents a unique narrative where God's name is not mentioned, yet His involvement in orchestrating events is profoundly evident. Set after the Jews were released from exile to return to their homeland, the story unfolds in the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus, whose realm spanned 127 provinces. Many Jews, …
Maintaining Good Health (Part 3)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe Book of Esther provides significant insights into the use of banquets as pivotal events in biblical narratives. In Esther 1, a grand banquet sets the stage for the entire story, portraying a powerful yet aloof king whose generosity masks a character flaw. In a moment of impatient irritation and drunkenness during this feast, …