Esther 10

Chapter Overview

What happens in Esther 10

The book closes by describing the greatness of both King Xerxes and Mordecai. Mordecai held the second highest position in the empire, and he used his power to help his people and work for the good of all the Jews.

Scripture

The Greatness of Mordecai

Study note

The book ends by placing Mordecai's story alongside the official records of the Persian Empire. From a Jewish captive sitting at the king's gate, Mordecai rose to become second only to the king -- using his position to protect and serve his people.

1 King Xerxes set up a tax across his whole empire, including the islands along the coast. And the king Ahasuerus laid a tribute upon the land, and upon the isles of the sea.

2 The king did many great and powerful things. He also gave Mordecai many honors. All of these things are written in the official records of the kings of Media and Persia. And all the acts of his power and of his might, and the declaration of the greatness of Mordecai, whereunto the king advanced him, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Media and Persia?

3 Mordecai the Jew rose to become the second most powerful man in the empire, right behind King Xerxes himself. He was deeply honored by the Jewish people and beloved by his fellow Jews. He devoted himself to working for the good of his people and speaking up for the welfare of all their descendants. For Mordecai the Jew was next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and accepted of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed.

Key Themes

Themes in Esther 10

Faithful service elevated to highest honorUsing influence for the good of othersGod's quiet providence accomplishes lasting resultsA life spent advocating for your people

Apply This Today

Living Esther 10

Mordecai rose to second in the kingdom and used his power to seek the good of his people. True greatness is measured not by the title you hold but by how you use your influence to serve others. Whatever position God gives you, use it to bless those around you.

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