ESTHER: Gate 4

Our Lord Jesus Christ be glorified!

Welcome to the study of the Book of Esther. Today, we focus on Chapter 4, and it is highly recommended to first read this chapter along with the previous ones to fully grasp the hidden truths revealed in this book through the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

We see that after Haman issued a decree to annihilate all the Jews in all the provinces of the kingdom, the Jewish people were devastated. Remember, this was a law among the Medes and Persians: any decree passed by the king could not be revoked under any circumstances. Even when a decree was given against Daniel, he had to be thrown into the lion’s den, and even the king could not reverse it to save him (Daniel 6:8, 12-13).

Understanding this, Mordecai and all the Jews mourned deeply as the Scriptures say:

Esther 4:1-3 (ESV)
“When Mordecai learned all that had happened, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing with a loud and bitter cry. He went up to the king’s gate, for no one could enter the king’s gate clothed in sackcloth. And in every province where the king’s command and his edict arrived, there was great mourning among the Jews, with fasting, weeping, and lamenting; and many lay in sackcloth and ashes.”

Mordecai realized the only hope for salvation was through Queen Esther. He informed her of Haman’s plot against all Jews and urged her to intercede with the king to overturn the plan. However, Esther’s initial response highlighted the risk of approaching the king without an invitation, which was punishable by death:

Esther 4:10-11 (ESV)
“Then Esther spoke to Hathach and sent him to Mordecai, saying: ‘All the king’s servants and the people of the royal provinces know that any man or woman who enters the inner court to the king without being called has but one law: that he shall be put to death. Only if the king holds out the golden scepter may the person live. I, however, have not been called to come to the king for these thirty days.’”

Mordecai’s response was urgent and faith-filled:

Esther 4:14 (ESV)
“For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?”

At this pivotal moment, Queen Esther courageously decided to risk her life and approach the king, but she first called all the Jews to fast for three days for her, seeking God’s favor (Esther 4:16). When she approached the king, God granted her favor. Instead of death, she received great honor—even the potential to be given half the kingdom if she desired.

Spiritual Lessons:

Courage and Sacrifice for Others: Esther, as a type of Christ’s bride, risked her own life for the salvation of her people. Christians are called to step out in faith to bring others to Christ, even when it may cost personal comfort or safety (Matthew 10:39).

Divine Timing: Mordecai reminds Esther, “Who knows if you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” This is God’s providential timing (Romans 8:28).

Faithful Witnessing: Wherever God places you—in the church, family, workplace, leadership positions—you are positioned to be a witness of Christ and an instrument of salvation for others.

Practical Application:

Use everything God has given you—position, knowledge, wealth, skills, youth, time—for His glory.

Even if your presence in a place seems unsuitable or risky, God may have positioned you there to save lives.

Be a faithful witness of Christ; honor God in all you do, and He will make a way where there seems to be no way.

1 Corinthians 10:31 (ESV)
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”

May you be encouraged to act boldly for God, knowing that His favor will accompany your obedience.

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