Esther Ch. 4 | Rejection

Sermon Discussion | Esther Ch. 4

We ended ch 3 with Haman enraged with Mordecai so much so that he’s ready to deploy genocide against the Jews. The king doesn’t seem to care about this plan, he even rejects the lavish offering Haman makes to carry out this order.

1. Ch 4 opens with Mordecai's reaction to this edict. His public display of loss and injustice is meant to draw attention to what is being done. Esther hears about Mordecai and his behavior and tries to console/help him (Esther 4:4-5). What do you learn about Esther in her reaction? What do you do with someone who is feeling such loss? How would you help someone who is hurting at such a deep level? In contrast, have you ever been on the receiving end of needing this type of care?

2. Jeremy pointed out the way we can help others is by loving first, listening next and deciding last. Why is loving first most important? In what ways might we get this order wrong?…what is the outcome when that happens?

3. Read Esther 4:6-11. Why does Moredcai want her to reveal her true identity now? Esther is going to have to measure the risk, you can't just go and see the king; the text goes on to say that the king hasn't called for her in almost a month. What is she risking by going or not going? How do you balance moments of faith and risk in your life? 

4. Read 4:12-17. What do you think of Mordecia's speech to Esther?..does it feel like a guilt trip or a threat? Here we see Esther again put in a position she didn't ask for. What do you think of her response?...what is this story and the bible trying to teach us? 

5. Jeremy concluded his sermon with verses 14-15, and asked the question what have you been prepared for? How can you cultivate a life of faithfulness and humility in the small things?