The book of Esther is a favorite of many in the Bible, and with good reason. The courageous story of a beautiful young queen, the book tells how a little orphan grew into the gracious queen willing to risk her life to save others. This inspiring book, a compilation of 15 sermons on Esther preached by a Scottish minister in the 1800's, brings forth many insights into the story of Esther. Readers will find:
- An overview of the life and times of King Artaxerxes
- The cultural reasons why Queen Vashti refused the king's drunken request
- The later regret of the king, with lessons drawn about the irreversible consequences of rash actions
- A discussion of the book of Esther as one of only two books in the Bible where the name of God isn't mentioned
- Thoughts on the prevailing hand of God, even amid confusion caused by the folly of men
- The life and experience of Mordecai and his role in the life of Queen Esther
- The history of the Amalekites as bitter enemies of Israel, together with Haman's place as an Agagite (Amalekite) in the story of Esther, and
- Much, much more.
The author of the book, Alexander Dyce Davidson, was a prominent Scottish minister during the 1800's. Ordained to the ministry at the age of 25, Davidson was considered to be one of the best preachers in the city of Aberdeen where he served for 34 years. Upon his death, it was noted that Dr. Davidson "exercised a great influence on the minds and consciences of the community throughout a whole generation, by the clearness and force of his expositions, combined with the strength and fervor of his own faith."
Dr. Davidson's archived sermons, 1800 in all, were a valuable contribution to the religious literature of his generation. In the words of one writer, they were ideally fitted to "satisfy the desires of a thirsty soul, and the manner is such as not to offend the most cultured taste." His writing style was plain, clear, simple, and earnest-traits that shine brilliantly through in these inspiring sermons on the wonderful book of Esther.
