The book of Esther never mentions the name of God, but His hand is seen in everything that takes place in the story. The theme is easily understood as that of the providence of God. Esther is a story that illustrates the truth of this priceless doctrine. Providence has been called “the hand of God in the glove of history.” It is the heavenly Father watching over and caring for His people.
This conference was held in Western Pennsylvania October 10–12, 2014.
The Hidden Hand of Providence?A Study in the Book of Esther — PA Conference 2014
Loading Content...
Share a Link to this Message
The link has been copied to your clipboard; paste it anywhere you would like to share it.
Faith of an individual and election of them by God come together at the point of salvation (Tit 1:1). Christ's mission (Luk 19:10) was "seek and save the lost" (Mat 28:19-20). Grace means God's unmerited favor to those not worthy. God's purpose in election is organization. Greek "eklektos" means to "call out". Error is to assume that "chosen ones" have merit. We share in Christ's election (Eph 1:6). Peter writes to those "scattered" by persecution - meaning seeds being sown (Act 8:4, 1Pe 1:1-2). "Elect according to the foreknowledge of God". Election is a divine undertaking of the Father's plan (foreknowledge - Rom 8:29), and Spirit's work. We share His holiness (2Co 5:21, 1Pe 1:15-16) -- we are elect, given election by our belief. Jesus Christ was treated horribly, but was God's choice (1Pe 2:4-5). "Coming to Him..." we become a "living stone, elect and precious". God's choice is His Son; our choice is Christ; we share union; we are chosen (1Pe 2:6-8). Election involves 3 things (1Pe 2:9-10): (1) salvation; (2) privilege; (3) service.