TL;DR
Esther by Lydia Brownback is a 10-week study exploring how the Book of Esther, despite not mentioning God directly, points to our Lord Jesus Christ. Part of the Flourish Bible Study Series.
What is Esther about
Esther: The Hidden Hand of God by Lydia Brownback is a part of the Flourish Bible Study Series. This 10-week study delves into the Book of Esther, a unique book in the Bible that does not explicitly mention God. Brownback guides readers through the nuances of the text, revealing how Esther's story implicitly points to Jesus Christ and God's sovereign rule. The book aims to provide a deeper understanding of divine providence through Esther's courageous and faithful actions, making it an enriching study for personal or group Bible study sessions.
Esther 6 Key Takeaways
Divine Providence
Brownback elucidates how the seemingly coincidental events in Esther's story are evidence of God's sovereign control and divine providence.
Courage and Faith
The study highlights Esther's bravery and faith as she risks her life to save her people, demonstrating the importance of trusting God's plan.
Implicit Theological Insights
Despite the absence of God's name, Esther's narrative is rich with theological insights, implicitly pointing to Jesus Christ.
Historical and Cultural Context
The book provides background on the historical and cultural context of Esther's story, helping readers understand its significance.
Application to Modern Life
Brownback connects Esther's story to contemporary life, showing how believers can apply its lessons to their own faith journeys.
Literary Analysis
The study includes a literary analysis of the Book of Esther, exploring its structure, motifs, and themes.
Top Esther Quotes
- "God's hand may be hidden, but it is never absent."
- "Esther’s story is a testament to the power of faith and the unseen hand of God guiding history."
Who should read Esther?
This book is ideal for believers looking to deepen their understanding of the Bible, particularly those interested in the Book of Esther. It is also perfect for personal or group Bible studies, providing rich insights and practical applications for modern Christian life.
Esther Best Reviews
- "Lydia Brownback's study on Esther is a gem. It unveils the hidden hand of God in every chapter, making it a must-read for those looking to deepen their understanding of divine providence." - Crossway Reviews
- "Esther: The Hidden Hand of God is an insightful and enriching study that brings the ancient text to life, connecting its themes to our modern faith walk." - The Gospel Coalition
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Esther FAQs
Why was the book of Esther removed from the Bible?
A prevailing theory is that Esther had not officially entered the biblical canon due to a lack of trust in its authenticity at the time.
What is the main message of the book of Esther?
The primary theme is the sovereign rule of God, illustrating His control even in seemingly insignificant events.
Is the book of Esther true?
While the setting is plausible and may have some basis in actual events, scholars generally agree that the Book of Esther is a work of fiction.