“Made
for a time as this”
Historical
background and purpose of the book
The
author is unknown, but he shows us a wide range of both Persian and Jewish
customs and rituals, and he was probably an eyewitness to what happened. It is written
between 460BC and 350BC, Esther became queen in 479 BC.
The
story of Esther's life fits in between chapters 6 and 7 of Ezra. Where Ezra
book is happening in and around Jerusalem, the book of Esther is happening in
Suba In Persia. That is to say between the first return of exiles Jews, led by
Zerubbabel and the other returns, which was led by Ezra.
The
book is written as a story. It is a drama in which we can clearly see how God,
through the invisible actions, sovereign human uses the ordinary events and
situations to reveal the results he wants. This should not be confused with how
God rescues his people through dramatic miracles in other cases.
Esther
as a young girl was led to become a concubine to the Persian King, but he liked
her so much so He made her His queen. Through this possession, and her rising identity
as a Jew and a spokeswoman for them, together with her cousin Mordecai she was
an important tool for saving the Jews at this time.
Main
theme: Who knows if perhaps you were made
queen for just such a time as this. 4.12
Theme
tracing:
What
does the book show about the character and nature of God?
He
supported His people 9.1 “ it was the Jews who overpowered their enemies”
He
turns the Kings heart
We
see in the book of Esther God's care. He shows that he takes care of His people.
He ignores the decisions of men, and works behind the scenes to protect his
people.
What does this book show
about God´s redemptive plan for mankind?
I
think it is hard to find direct quotes of God’s redemptive plan. But there is a
focus in this book how God without forcing the human free will, and without
interfering with the action on the human level, He still shows His power and
His controls over all things. It brings up the big question about our free will
– but also the brilliant act of Love and longing for relationship He always
shows.
Application
questions
Personal
application:
I
loved these books in the Bible about these wise women, Ruth and Esther.
The:
“Who knows if perhaps you were made queen for just such a time as this” 4.12 is
so encouraging and challenging for me.
I
have always been encouraged by persons that is aware of, and using their possession
in society as a platform for Gods presence and will. I have earlier been studying
and teaching about our “Godly & good examples through history” and Esther
is a good example of this. I also like the way in verse 2.20 it is said that
she followed Mordecai’s instruction “as she did when she lived in his home” –
but when she rose in seeing her task she is the one to give orders for others
to follow 4.16-17. like the authority follows by seeing you calling. I pray
that God must continue to use me “for just such a time as this “.
Point of
passion on separate paper
Source: SVB, NB, www.biblesiden.no, lecture in class
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