BGBC 072124 SS final

Summary

In this Sunday school lesson, the focus is on the biblical story of Esther, exploring her rise to power and the challenges she faced as a Jewish woman in Persia. The lesson delves into themes of faith, obedience, and the struggle against anti-Semitism, highlighting Esther's courage and the moral dilemmas she encountered.

Takeaways

• 🙏 The lesson begins with a prayer, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance and insight from God.
• 📚 The speaker introduces the seventh lesson in a series of ten, focusing on 'Women of Faith', highlighting the significance of women in biblical narratives.
• 🔢 The number seven is noted as a biblical symbol of completion, setting the stage for the discussion on women's roles and stories in the Bible.
• 👩 The lesson delves into the story of Esther, a queen who plays a pivotal role in the Book of Esther, despite the central character being a man.
• 🌐 The historical context is provided, explaining the transition from the Babylonian Empire to the Persian Empire and its impact on the Jewish people.
• 👑 Esther's rise to power is discussed, including her selection as queen and the advice given by her cousin Mordecai to conceal her Jewish identity.
• 🙇‍♂️ The story of Mordecai's refusal to bow down to Haman is explored, highlighting his faith and the potential consequences of his actions.
• 👑 The conflict between Haman and Mordecai escalates, leading to Haman's plot to annihilate the Jews, which is a critical turning point in the narrative.
• 📜 The decree issued by King Xerxes to kill the Jews is detailed, showing the gravity of the situation and the urgency for Esther to act.
• 🙏 Esther's decision to intervene on behalf of her people, despite the personal risk, is underscored as a key moment of faith and courage.

Q & A

What is the main theme of the lesson series being discussed?

The main theme of the lesson series is 'Women of Faith,' focusing on various women in the Bible and their roles and contributions.

What is the significance of the number seven in the context of this lesson series?

The number seven is mentioned as a number of completion in the Bible, and it is the seventh lesson in the series, although not the last.

Who is the central character in the Book of Esther, and why is she significant?

The central character in the Book of Esther is Esther herself, who becomes the queen of Persia. She is significant because she plays a crucial role in saving her people, the Jews, from destruction.

What was Esther's original Hebrew name before she became known as Esther?

Esther's original Hebrew name was Hadassa.

Why did Mordecai advise Esther not to reveal her nationality and background when she went to the palace?

Mordecai advised Esther not to reveal her nationality and background to avoid potential prejudice and harm due to anti-Semitism that was prevalent at the time.

What event led to Queen Vashti being dethroned in the story of Esther?

Queen Vashti was dethroned because she refused to come out and display her beauty to the king and his drunken guests, which was seen as a direct disobedience to the king's command.

Who is Haman, and what role does he play in the story of Esther?

Haman is a high-ranking official in King Xerxes' court who becomes the king's right-hand man. He plays a significant role as the antagonist, seeking to destroy the Jews out of revenge for Mordecai's refusal to bow down to him.

Why did Mordecai refuse to bow down and show reverence to Haman?

Mordecai refused to bow down and show reverence to Haman because he was a Jew and believed in only bowing down to God, not to any man.

What was the decree that Haman sought to have passed against the Jews?

Haman sought a decree that allowed for the Jews to be killed on a specific day, with a reward for those who participated in their destruction.

What action does Esther take in response to the threat against her people, and what is the potential risk involved?

Esther decides to go to the king, even though it is against the law for anyone to approach the king without being summoned, risking her own life to plead for her people.