God Protects His People 2

Big Idea: God will give you courage to honor Him.

What’s a good story without a villain? In this growth narrative Bible lesson, the spotlight falls on one main character, Mordecai, and introduces the story’s villain, Haman. Mordecai dramatically saves the king’s life but also makes a powerful enemy. Mordecai refused to bow to Haman, a choice that put a target on his back and his life in danger. Haman was an Agagite—a descendant of the people who were Israel’s enemies but who were not totally destroyed because of King Saul’s disobedience. Some commentators believe Mordecai’s refusal to bow was because of the ancient “bad blood” between the
Jews and Agagites. Knowing Haman was a wicked man with a wicked heritage, Mordecai stood for the honor of his people and the honor of His God. His stand precipitated the next events in the book of Esther, furthering Satan’s evil plot to destroy the people God loved.

Scripture: Esther 2:21—4:3

Memory Verse: “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:6)