Source of Joy, Truth and Rejoicing (Esther 8-10)

Get ready, because in this lesson we will study Esther 8-10, we will see the outcome of Esther’s story, and even more how God’s Plan and His sovereignty are a source of joy, truth and rejoicing for us who trust in Him.

A Second Cry and a New Message (Esther 8)

The first time Esther interceded before the king, her cry was strategic and calm; this time it is a more passionate cry for Haman’s plans to be stopped. (Esther 8:1-8)

Mordecai was placed over Haman’s house and given the royal ring, so that he could write new edicts, with instructions to the Jews to defend themselves when they were attacked, as previously indicated. (Esther 8 11-14)

The image of Mordecai at the end of this chapter unleashes joy and gladness. Do you remember the image of Mordecai when he was honored by the king? This image is of much more authority, a great crown and royal robes; they filled the people with joy. (Esther 8 15-16)

In verse 17, we see that many from other nations now proclaimed themselves to be Jews, because not being so put their lives in danger. This is a marked contrast with the beginning of the book, when Esther didn’t even reveal her people, probably to avoid some discrimination. (Esther 1:10)

Responding to Achievements

Let’s notice that Esther, despite everything she has achieved up to this point, maintains a position of humility and seeking to find the king’s favor when making her cry.

Her achievements haven’t gone to her head; she didn’t allow pride to fill her heart. How do we react when we manage to reach a goal for our good or that of others?

Another detail we should meditate on is that the king’s favorable response toward the Jewish people did not eliminate the decree already established. That decision is still under God’s sovereignty and His will.

The same happens with the consequences of our sin; when we repent of our sins, it doesn’t make their consequences disappear. We must trust that, in the midst of every situation, God is still in control and provides us with a way out, even if some kind of battle must be fought.

This is important, for example, when we pray for healing, protection or provision; we have to learn to see God’s sovereignty in action, even though the results are not exactly as we expected.

Vengeance and Defense of the Jews (Esther 9:1-15)

The dreaded day arrives and the result is contrary to what Haman anticipated. The Jews defended themselves throughout the kingdom and managed to preserve their lives. Furthermore, they became once again a people feared by other nations. (v. 1-4)

Do you remember Haman’s wife’s expressions, when she said that if he is of Jewish descent, you will not be able to prevail against him? Not because of the strength they had, but because of the power of the God they serve.

In verses 5-15 of this chapter we read about the day of confrontation and the destruction that came upon those who hated the Jewish people in Susa and all its provinces.

In verses 9, 15 and 16 the fact is mentioned that they did not take any of the goods of those who died that day. This detail leads us to remember the story of Saul when he confronted Agag. They did take from the goods of the people they attacked, ignoring God’s commandment.

There Are Reasons to Celebrate ( Esther 8:16-23)

After finishing the confrontation, the next day “they rested, and proclaimed it a day of feasting and rejoicing.” In the provinces on the 14th day of the month of Adar and on the 15th day in the capital of Susa.

Mordecai writes the events and orders that annually on these dates the liberation of the Jewish people be celebrated. They celebrated that their sadness had been changed to joy and their mourning to rejoicing.

Do We Learn from Our Past Mistakes?

Apparently, these Jews learned not to take what didn’t belong to them. They learned to follow instructions as they were established, they learned a lesson of obedience. What about us?

We read God’s Word, we listen to preaching, we participate in conversations that exhort us to live in such a way that God is glorified, but do we seek to obey God or do we comply halfway like Saul?

In one of the past lessons we mentioned that it’s important to suffer our pain. Likewise, when the Lord changes our sadness to joy, we need to take time to enjoy it, rest and in gratitude for the good we have received, serve others. (v. 22)

The Feast of Purim (Esther 9:24-32)

We already know the whole story and at the end of this chapter we read a brief summary of the events. With an emphasis on the establishment of the feast, the reason for celebration was not temporary, but one that should be celebrated every year.

The days are called Purim, because Haman chose the days by means of the Pur (casting lots). The purpose of the celebration is for the deeds to be remembered for future generations. Which was a success because to this date, during the month of March, Jews celebrate the Feast of Purim.

Let’s Celebrate!

There were many reasons to celebrate, not only for the liberation of that specific generation; but they could celebrate God’s power and sovereignty over their lives. Those days when lots were cast over them, the Lord fulfilled His purpose.

That truth is one we should hold onto, everything is in God’s hands and His purpose will be fulfilled and is perfect.

Perhaps you wonder: Should we celebrate this feast of Purim? It’s important that we know and understand the root of this celebration and we can recognize that it is the result of God’s power and a miracle how He protected His people at that time.

However, we have to understand that this celebration was not the end of God’s salvation story for all His children. This deliverance preserved the lineage of the one who would fulfill all the prophecies; and who would bring true and total deliverance for His people, Jesus.

Through Jesus’ incarnation, His life, death and resurrection, our greatest lament has been changed to a greater joy. We have salvation not only from what man can do to us, but from God’s wrath through Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

The Image of Mordecai (Esther 10:1-3)

This book bears Esther’s name and we almost always emphasize her actions and her role in the story’s outcome.

However, the book culminates by highlighting Mordecai’s person; a man esteemed by others who reaches a position of great authority and who cares for his people.

I share with you some of the characteristics I identify in Mordecai throughout the entire book; how do you see Mordecai?

• An expatriate, in charge of raising his cousin Esther. (2:5-7)
• A good citizen saving the king’s life (2:21-23)
• A man of strong character in the midst of confrontation with Haman (3)
• We saw his lament and how he held onto his faith in the midst of pain (4)
• Humble in the midst of exaltation (6:10-14)
• The strategic and wise leader (8:9-10)
• Messenger of Peace (8:15-17)

In the next lesson we will take a little more time to meditate on the truths we have learned during our study of the book of Esther.