Audio Messages

The final chapters of Esther are a wrap-up to the story, but they are not unimportant because they tell us why this story was written down. It was written so that the readers would remember why they celebrate the festival called Purim. It was written so that people would remember that God delivers His people. It was written because they dared not forget the past. And neither do we. When we forget our sinful past and God’s salvation, we run the risk of missing the rest that Jesus came to give.

Do you stand out as a person of influence? Do you believe that God has put you on earth to accomplish something? Is your heart burdened to make a difference or solve some problem? The truth is: we all are influencers in one way or another. Parents influence children. Sales people influence customers. Students influence their peers. But being an effective influencer is more than just being a persuasive speaker. It involves a process of steps and actions that are providentially initiated, guided, and planned by God.

The focus of this chapter is on the hostility shown against God and His people, and how God responds. In this instance, the hostility manifests itself in the pride, attention-seeking, and vengeful attitude of Haman. In the middle of this, God shows His providence in controlling the roll of the dice that sets the date for the massacre of the Jews. As we face hate and attack, we are encouraged to wait patiently on God’s justice by demonstrating mercy.

Do you ever feel like a number, like just another cog in the machine, a nameless face in the crowd? Esther had a pretty face, but no one cared much what her name was. She was just one of 400 girls taken by force to be part of the empire’s machine-like process to find a new queen. She stood out from the crowd, but it wasn’t because of her beauty. Ultimately, it was God’s favor that made Esther stand out in her blend-in world. Remember that next time you’re feeling lost in the crowd.

There are a lot of pressures to blend-in with society, to fit in, just “do as you’re told,” and avoid making waves. The opening chapter of the story of Esther tell us that Esther, Mordecai, and their fellow displaced Jews lived in the same kind of culture. It was a culture that applied extreme pressure to fit in and feared the disruption caused by anyone who attempted to stand out. God’s people need to know that His kingdom surpasses every earthly empire and don’t need to be afraid to stand out.

What do you do with your faith when you face challenges and setbacks? What do you do when your faith is tested to the limit? In this sermon, we’ll learn about a woman who had great hope in small things and was rewarded greatly.

The "fake commission" says we can be witnesses for Jesus without ever saying a word about the gospel. The Great Commission says that we are to actively use words in bringing others to Christ. Which are you practicing? In this message, Pastor John describes how we can be the kind of people who introduce men and women to Jesus as faithful witnesses.

Today, we’re looking at the season of life from 40 to 59 years-old. It’s during middle-age that many choose to place a new focus on their health. This is wise, but our spiritual health is even more important than physical health. The examination may be uncomfortable, but Jesus, the Great Physician, provides us any healing that we need.

The Great Commission that Jesus has given to His followers starts with the word “Go.” The Father’s intention is for the whole world to know about Jesus and the salvation He provides. His solution is to use ordinary people like you and me to spread the word.

Great families start somewhere – and it can start with you, resolving with God’s help to make it happen. In this opening message on “Families Rated G for Great,” Pastor John explores what Scripture says are the essential qualities of true love.