First-century church problems still show up from time to time

Truth can be rightly perceived but wrongly applied if my presuppositions are wrong. For example, sin hurts, true? Therefore, "hurts" are due to sin—also true???

Although God isn't mentioned in the book of Esther at all, it doesn't mean He's altogether absent. In fact, He's actively involved every step along the way. This can be seen by working backward and playing the "What if…?" game!

Things can look pretty bleak—dire, even. From all indications, the outlook is hopeless. But God can work swiftly and dramatically to turn things around completely so that our legitimate reasons for fasting are eliminated! Feasting follows!

Although God is never directly acknowledged in the entire book of Esther, His presence is clearly evident in several “coincidences” that end up favoring His people. 

Throughout the first four chapters of Esther, there is no sense of awareness of or dependence upon God—until a crisis hits. Even then, it’s a mere scant hint of dependence, but not by calling upon Him by name or even through prayer! 

And then there's bitterness! This vice can color all of life and ruin any ability to enjoy even an abundance of prosperity!

Why really did Mordecai refuse to “bow down” to Haman? Was his refusal rooted in Jewish piety…or personal jealousy? 

If a culture focuses on outward physical beauty—especially that of women—problems will surely follow. Women can feel exploited and rightly refuse to give in to the culture's pressure. Others can hope to use their beauty to get ahead. Both are seen in the opening pages of the Old Testament book of Esther.

The “war” has been going on for millennia...but it shouldn’t be waged in a Christian home! Paul addresses the problem in 1 Corinthians 11.

We're seeing in living color what happens when the truth of Proverbs 21:15 is ignored. A lack of justice brings not only grief, but also social decay! But justice administered brings joy...and terror!