Passage
Esther 1:1-22 (ESV)
Plagues of Frogs and Gnats
Exodus 8:1-19
Key Verse: 8:19
Queen Vashti Deposed
Date: Nov. 20, 2019
Daily Bread
Introduction to Esther
Key Verse: 1:19
1. Two banquets (1-12)
King Xerxes ruled the Persian Empire from Egypt to India. He was a very powerful man. But he was an insecure man. That led him to invite the leaders of the empire to a six-month log exposition to show off his military might and his own glory and majesty. He topped it off with a lavish week-long banquet. That same day, Queen Vashti also gave a lavish banquet for the women of the palace. At one point, Xerxes wanted to show Vashti off to his guests. He sent for her but she refused to come! She did not respect her husband and king. This made Xerxes furious.
2. The consequences (13-22)
The king consulted his closest advisors to see what should be done about Queen Vashti. His advisors told him Vashti must be severely punished lest other women become influenced by her. So, they urged Xerxes to depose Vashti. Queen Vashti lost her position because of foolish stubborn pride on both sides. Pride is ruinous of relationships- both with other people and with God.
Prayer: Lord, my heart is full of pride. Help me repent and cleanse me of my pride.
One Word: Pride goes before a fall
