First Baptist Church Wiggins, FBC Wiggins
Today we will learn that the story of Esther is just like our story of salvation.
Esther 8:1-17 ESV
I. We are saved with authority. 1-2
King Ahasuerus gave Esther and Mordecai authority in his kingdom.
- What a complete change of circumstances this was
Esther became the “savior” of her people.
- Now she had power. REAL earthly power to make a difference.
What happened with Esther in Esther 8 was a foreshadowing of things to come…
- When Jesus came everything changed. Salvation had come because God was in control.
Remember what Jesus said in the time between his resurrection and the ascension.
Matthew 28:18-20 ESV
God the father had given His son all authority and it wasn't just earthly authority like Esther and Mordecai possessed.
- The Son has made us His people and His ambassadors to the world.
II. We are saved through sacrifice. 3-14
Its important to note that when the power structure was flipped over, all the citizens of the citadel wanted to be on the side of the Jews, and they laid themselves down for them.
Because of her sacrifice, Persia was turned upside down and with Jesus’ sacrifice, Jew and Gentile alike was inspired to join in his efforts to save every nation.
At Pentecost, Peter spoke of the curse of sin, and what Jesus had done to reverse the curse… and that message penetrated their hearts.
They asked Peter, “What must we do to be saved” & Peter’s response was...
Acts 2:38-39 ESV
3k of them did that that very day became the Church.
- They became the scribes and riders that would go to all nations to proclaim that Jesus is Lord and that the curse of sin had been reversed.
We must be ambassadors who are faithful to Learn, internalize, and proclaim what is the good news of the gospel.
(But with Knowledge, Wisdom and Character.)
(Follow the Holy Spirit all over the globe as He spreads the word that the curse has been reversed.)
Be willing to put your very lives on the line to see the world reconciled to God the Father.
III. We are saved into joy and gladness. 15-17
“light and gladness and joy and honor”
Light = Prosperity
Gladness = Absolute joy
Joy = Welcome exultation
Honor = Valuable dignity
Holiday = Day of celebration
The day of their salvation had not yet even come yet the Jews were celebrating all over the kingdom at the news that salvation was coming.
Be Exicted!!!
- even though we still live in a fallen world that is cursed with sin and death… WE KNOW- the tomb is empty and Jesus is on the throne…
- It's just a matter of waiting for the day.
If we are in Christ we have every reason in the world to not be discouraged.
- We have every reason in the world to feel hopeful, light, joyous, glad, and honored.
Conclusion:
The curse of sin existed - Jesus reversed the curse!
- Those who have not yet repented and trusted in Him must do so.
- Those who have repented and trusted in him should find joy and hope in Christ. It will allow you to wear a smile as we wait for the day of Christ's return.