Esther had kept the identity of her people a secret from the king. Now, by Haman’s influence, the king has issued a decree to destroy the entire Jewish race. If she appears before the king without being recognized, she will be put to death. If she reveals her people and the decree stands, she will be put to death. The only solution is for her to die to herself before she acts. This she does with integrity and honor.
The first return is a trip into the fog. They do not know exactly what will greet them. They do not fully know the condition of the land. The journey of hundreds of miles will take them weeks to complete. Yet they go because they have a higher purpose in mind. They go to rebuild God’s holy temple and to reestablish the true worship of God in God’s chosen city of Jerusalem. They go also to replant the land given to their father Abraham.
This chapter is one of the greatest chapters on Christ in the Bible. Of this chapter, the Baptist preacher J. Frank Norris said: “The greatest chapter, the highest mountain peak of the whole Bible. This chapter should be memorized by all.”
The Resurrection of Jesus Christ:<br />
Central message of Acts (2:22-24; 3:15; 4:10; 5:30; 10:38-40; 13:28-30; 17:31)<br />
Key to personal salvation (Romans 10:9; 1Corinthians 15:14-17)
Central message of Acts (2:22-24; 3:15; 4:10; 5:30; 10:38-40; 13:28-30; 17:31)<br />
Key to personal salvation (Romans 10:9; 1Corinthians 15:14-17)
We enter into a time of confusion in the kingdoms of Israel and Judah. Because of their sins, God had judged them with defeat at the hand of the Syrians and famine in the land. Yet, they did not return to the Lord. However, in the restoration of land to the woman whose son was restored to life, we see that God continues to watch over those who are faithful to Him. May the Lord help us to be found faithful in these last days.
