Called For Such a Time As This
by Rev. Kirby Williams
Learning to rise to our calling and break the silence, in "such a time as this".
Text: Esther 4:14
Date: 02/23/2020, the Traditional service.
Description:
In this "Mission-report-back-Sunday" message, we will turn to the book of Esther to illuminate some of the lessons learned from a recent team trip to Haiti. Just as Esther finds her whole life has prepared her for her dangerous mission of approaching the king of Persia in order to save her people, we will consider that all true disciples of Christ are also under a calling to realize their Providential place in the Kingdom. And just as Esther could not remain silent, we will find that Christ has called us to action in His Kingdom. We must therefore boldly accept His calling and "break the silence" to accomplish our calling as worshipers and Kingdom-builders-- in "such a time as this".
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I. Introduction
II. Exposition of the text, Esther 4:14.
A. Context
1. How Esther became Queen of Persia.
2. Recognizing the dilemma, Esther 4:11.
B. God's Providence and Esther's choice.
1. Breaking the silence.
a. The option for silence.
b. The ultimate deliverance of the Jews.
2. The paradox of Esther's dilemma.
3. Esther's calling unveiled.
a. A telling prelude, Jonah 3:9, 2Sam. 12:22.
b. Esther's "time".
III. Application
A. recognizing God's Providence.
B. Submitting to God's Providence.
1. The situation, John 17:14-16.
2. Silence is not an option, Esther 4:16.
a. The paradox of the situation.
b. The Providence of God, John 6:39.
3. Finding your place "in such a time as this".
a. Categories of churchgoers.
i. The "ignorers"
ii. The "apologizers".
iii. The "complainers".
iv. The "doers".
b. Choosing discipleship.
IV. Conclusion, Isa. 58:10-11.