One of the repeated topics of discussion concerning the book of Esther is that there is no direct mention of Yahweh. It is the only Old Testament book not quoted by the New Testament, and curiously it is not found among what we call the Dead Sea Scrolls. But when the Old Testament canon was finally recognized by Jewish authorities, it was nonetheless included, and Jews greatly acknowledge while celebrating Purim on which these events were based that they are celebrating God’s deliverance. The rabbis of old associated Esther with the Day of Atonement. But I believe the strongest evidence of God is in the statement, “And many among the peoples of the land became Jews”. NO ONE goes through this process without having a very strong connection to God to motivate them.
(more…)

As a new creation in Christ, the list of things God has provided for us is astonishing. It began before the creation of the world and extends into eternity, and from our present, limited view has brought great spiritual riches for our past, present, and future. Just the fact that we are known by Him should be enough, but His desire for a relationship with Him brings much, much more. I guess it should not be any surprise that this new family, just like any family, might have a few siblings who desire more attention than the rest, who are not satisfied with what has been given but, in the end, want it all.
(more…)

This is one of the truly remarkable portions of Scripture providing insight into the very character and working of both Satan and the Antichrist, both whom are typified in Haman. Unsatisfied as the most powerful being created, discontent with all that the king has given to honor him, it ultimately means nothing to him because his pride has taken over to the degree that the only thing which will satiate his desires is to be worshiped like the king. That is the defining goal we must never forget when it comes to Satan in general and his specific agent the Antichrist: it is about being worshiped.
(more…)

One of the unique characteristics of human beings across all races, religions, and demographic groups is their belief in some kind of destiny, some kind of purpose for which they have been born. This is the basic format of all biographies which detail the “chance” events which came together to bring someone famous to the crossroads of their accomplishments. And it is at the very heart of the salvation experience when it becomes clear that God indeed has a calling for us. But what happens should we arrive at the pinnacle of that calling and refuse to carry it out? With God there is always free choice, and such choices never derail His plans; He simply replaces us with someone else.
(more…)

The book of Esther, like the Song of Solomon, is communicating much more to us than the surface-level story they present. There are other layers of meaning if one studies them from an eschatological point of view or especially as they relate to the Messiah. It surprises most to learn that the ancient rabbinic scholars’ teaching concerning Esther is that she is a type, a kind of foreshadowing, of the Messiah. One of the few female types in the Old Testament, it was commonly taught that she typified the Messiah in the way that He would deliver His people, and in the distinctive characteristic that the Messiah would have no mother or father.
(more…)