14
Esther
Yahweh keeps His covenant
Old Testament · History
Summary
The author is not identified but is a Jew living in Persia with detailed knowledge of events. Events begin during the third year of the reign of Xerxes I (486-465 B.C.), covering approximately 10 years. The story takes place in the Persian empire where God uses Esther and Mordecai to thwart Haman's plot to destroy the Jews, demonstrating that Yahweh keeps His covenant.
Outline
Conflict Developed
Chapters 1-4| Divine Instruments Presented | 1-2 | Queen Vashti deposed - 1:1-22 Queen Esther chosen - 2:1-20 King Xerxes protected by Mordecai - 2:21-23 |
| Opposition Plot Threatened | 3-4 | Opposition presented - 3:1-2a Insubordination produced - 3:2b-5 Destruction planned - 3:6-15 Deliverance sought - 4:1-17 |
Opposition Defeated
Chapters 5-10| Divine Intervention Protected | 5-9:19 | Esther's acceptance - 5:1-3 Esther's first banquet - 5:4-8 Haman's arrogance - 5:9-14 Haman's humiliation - 6:1-14 Esther's second banquet - 7:1-4 Haman's hanging - 7:5-10 |
| National Celebration Established | 9:20-32 | |
| Individual Participation Rewarded | 10:1-3 |
Resources
Audio Lessons
Part 1: esther