Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet

Gloom to Gladness

Bryan Schneider · March 13, 2021

Esther 9; Esther 10

sharonrpc.org/sermons/gloom-to-gladness

Summary

On the appointed day, the Jews' enemies expected victory, but God's hidden providence reversed the outcome and preserved his covenant people.
The Jews fought defensively and repeatedly refused the plunder, showing that their deliverance was not an opportunity for private enrichment.
Their mourning turned to feasting, gladness, generosity, and care for the poor through the continuing remembrance of Purim.
Although God's covenant name never appears in Esther, his sovereign direction of rulers, events, timing, and even the casting of lots shapes the whole book.
The greater reversal is Christ's resurrection: sin and death appeared victorious, yet God transformed his people's gloom into enduring joy.
Present sorrow is a prologue rather than the final chapter for those who trust God's promises and await Christ's return.

Where am I tempted to conclude that God is absent simply because his work is hidden?
How does the Jews' refusal of plunder distinguish protection from greed or revenge?
Do I intentionally remember and celebrate God's acts of deliverance?
How can celebration include generosity toward the poor rather than remaining private enjoyment?
What present gloom needs to be interpreted through Christ's resurrection and promised return?

Providence: God's holy, wise, and powerful preservation and government of creatures, actions, timing, and outcomes.
Purim: The Jewish remembrance named after the lot Haman cast, celebrating the reversal from threatened destruction to deliverance and rest.
Reversal: God's turning of an intended evil outcome back upon the plotters and bringing protection and joy to his people.
Defensive deliverance: The Jews' authorized protection of their lives against attackers without treating the conflict as permission for plunder.