This study is part of our series of verse by verse studies of Esther, the 17th book in the Bible. Taught by Simeon Forder at our Sunday evening service on the 23rd October 2022.

About this book

Esther records the incredible deliverance of the Jews during their Babylonian captivity, which is still celebrated today in the feast of Purim. While this book of the Bible is unusual, in that God is not directly mentioned, in it we see God’s providence in arranging the circumstances for their deliverance, and examples – good and bad – in the characters we follow there.

About this study

We’d be mistaken to think that Israel’s unfaithfulness to God resulted in any unfaithfulness by Him, and in this opening chapter we see the beginning of circumstances that will ensure their survival, through the unfair dealings of a pagan king with his queen. While a poor example of the influence of alcohol, and how to treat a woman, the kings actions (unbeknown to him at that time) open the way for Esther to become queen – a critical event en route to saving the lives of many.

Applications questions

• Does alcohol ever affect your judgement? (You shouldn’t let it)
• Husbands, do you love your wives?
• Wives, do you respect your husbands?