Called For Such A Time Series

Called for such a Time

Esther 4: 10-17

The entire fourth chapter of Esther deals with her reaction to the decree signed by Ahasuerus regarding the Jews and the conversation she had with Mordecai concerning this disturbing plan. Our text today is a continuation of that conversation. One can only imagine the great distress and sorrow this created within their hearts.

As I read these verses I was reminded of the many obstacles we face in our Christian journey. Satan, like Haman of old, seeks to defeat the believer and remove us from effective service. Our lives are filled with hardship and adversity. Many dream of fairy tale story lines and happy endings, but in reality, life is hard. We must lean upon the Lord for strength and wisdom as we navigate this perilous journey called life.

As we continue in the text, I want to consider the challenges it reveals as we contemplate: Called for such a Time.

I. The Dilemma for Esther (10-11) – As we continue to examine this rapidly unfolding situation, we discover the great dilemma Esther faced. Consider:

A. The Proclamation (11a) – All the king's servants, and the people of the king's provinces, do know, that whosoever, whether man or woman, shall come unto the king into the inner court, who is not called, there is one law of his to put him to death, except such to whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live. Earlier in the conversation, Mordecai had instructed Esther to go in before the king and intercede for the Jews. Now, it seems apparent that Mordecai would have been aware of this ordinance, but Esther reminds him. No one in the kingdom was allowed to come before the king uninvited, not even the queen. An unannounced appearance could result in death for the one brazen enough to make entrance uninvited. Esther faced great concern through this dilemma.

Again I want to emphasize that Ahasuerus is not a picture or type of the Lord, but this brings to mind an important spiritual truth. Only those who have come to Christ by faith, being saved by His grace, have access to the throne of grace. The lost and undone do not enjoy such a privilege. All will stand before the righteous judge one day and only those who are part of the body of Christ will be accepted in His presence. Those who do not know Christ through salvation will be removed from His presence and cast into outer darkness and eternal torment.

B. The Provision (11a) – except such to whom the king shall hold out the golden sceptre, that he may live. Esther knew there was one exception, one provision for those who entered the king’s presence uninvited. If the king was pleased with the individual, and extended his scepter, that person would not be put to death, and would be granted an audience with the king. This would be Esther’s only hope if she approached Ahasuerus uninvited.

This too reveals a great spiritual truth. Long before Christ was born in Bethlehem and offered Himself the atoning sacrifice for sin, His coming to redeem mankind was prophesied. Num.24:17 – I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth. This actually speaks of the Millennial Reign where Christ will rule and reign as the righteous King, but it also reveals His sovereign authority. The Scepter that rose out of Israel stands as man’s only hope for redemption and the One all will stand before in judgment. Apart from a relationship with Him, judgment is sure.

C. The Problem (11b) – but I have not been called to come in unto the king these thirty days. Esther had not been invited to stand before the king for the past thirty days. There was no formal request at this time. If she were to approach him uninvited, she could be put to death. Esther understood the grave implications of being in the king’s presence uninvited and the very real possibility that the scepter would not be extended, showing acceptance. She respected the king’s authority and feared his wrath.

I wish all people were like Esther in this regard. If only they understood the certainty of standing before Christ when this life is over. If only they would accept the truth of judgment for sin, and the means of salvation. Our only hope to gain eternal life and escape eternal judgment is to receive favor from the King of kings.

II. The Discernment of Mordecai (12-14) – Mordecai understood Esther’s dilemma, but he also was well aware of the implications of this decree for every Jew. Consider: