Discussion #12 ~ Esther 5

1. What title would you give to Esther 5:1-8?

2. What title would you give to Esther 5:9-14

3. With the tension and fear from chapter4, 5:2 seems to happen quickly. Obviously, Esther was not solely focused on whether or not the King extended the sceptor to her. 5:5 shows us that she already had a plan in place. Note the verb connected with the banquet. What is it and what does it imply? There is also one adverb in the verse that shows time. What is it? (Don't read the next sentence yet!)

If Haman is quickly brought and the banquet was already prepared (completed action), then Esther has already acted in faith that God would hear their prayers and help. Amazing! As a human we don't know for certain how God will act on our behalf in each situation, but we can trust in His character and make our best decisions.

4. Esther plans to go face-to-face with her adversary in the presence of the King. Haman and the King are both invited to her banquet, but she acts confidently. Since we do not have the name of God mentioned in the book of Esther, what evidence can we find in the text that shows us the source of her confidence?


5. One day, we will stand before King Jesus. And our adversary, the Devil, has acted as our accuser (Job 1:8-12; Luke 22:31-34). We may or may not be face to face with him, but his accusations against us may be true, in that we are sinners. What confidence can you have to stand before King Jesus? Cite from the Bible in support of your answer.

6. Write down as many obervations as you can about Haman's character in 5:9-14.

7. Can you relate to any of his sins? How is it a contradiction to God's desired character for us as Christians? Do you have one Bible verse to help show this?

8. Any silly or serious personal story in mind (that you/I would be willing to share) that is a modern day example from our own life?