How should Christians respond when faced with unjust decrees, like in Esther 3:15? Setting the Scene in Esther 3:15 “The couriers left, spurred on by the king’s command, and the edict was issued in the citadel of Susa. Then the king and Haman sat down to drink, but the city of Susa was bewildered.” (Esther 3:15) Recognizing Unjust Decrees • Scripture records that governments sometimes publish laws that are plainly unrighteous (Isaiah 10:1–2). • An unjust decree is any ruling that contradicts God’s moral law or harms the innocent. • God’s people must discern the difference between mere inconvenience and genuine injustice (Hebrews 5:14). First Response: Bring the Matter before God • Fasting and prayer come first, just as Esther and the Jews later did (Esther 4:16). • Daniel responded to an unjust law by praying, not panicking (Daniel 6:10). • Pour out concerns honestly—Psalm 62:8 says, “trust in Him at all times… pour out your hearts before Him.” Second Response: Seek Godly Wisdom and Community • Mordecai and Esther processed the decree together instead of in isolation (Esther 4:8–14). • Wise counsel helps clarify both obedience and strategy (Proverbs 15:22). • The church family today serves a similar role (Hebrews 10:24–25). Third Response: Maintain Obedience to God over Man • Acts 5:29: “We must obey God rather than men.” • Civil disobedience becomes necessary only when human law directly contradicts God’s commands (Exodus 1:17; Daniel 3:18). • Even while resisting, believers refuse to abandon respectfulness (1 Peter 2:17). Fourth Response: Act Courageously and Righteously • Esther risked her life, yet approached the king with humility and wisdom (Esther 5:1–4). • Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood firm without insults or violence (Daniel 3:16–18). • Romans 12:21: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” Fifth Response: Trust God’s Sovereign Hand • Proverbs 21:1 reminds us the king’s heart is in the Lord’s hand. • God used the very gallows built for Mordecai against Haman (Esther 7:9–10). • Romans 8:28 assures that “all things work together for good” for those who love Him. Balanced Submission and Resistance • Romans 13:1–2 and 1 Peter 2:13–14 command submission to governing authorities. • Submission is the default stance; resistance is the exception when obedience to God is at stake. • Micah 6:8 calls believers to combine justice, mercy, and humility in every response. Examples from Scripture • Joseph navigated Egyptian power structures without compromise (Genesis 39–41). • Daniel thrived under multiple pagan regimes while remaining faithful. • Early apostles preached Christ despite official bans (Acts 4:18–20). Practical Takeaways for Today • Stay informed: know what a decree really says before reacting. • Pray and fast first; let petitions and appeals flow from a settled heart. • Speak truth respectfully, using lawful avenues (letters, courts, peaceful protests). • Stand firm when obedience to Christ is threatened, accepting possible consequences. • Encourage and protect those most affected by the injustice. • Keep hope anchored in God’s ultimate justice, trusting that He will vindicate His people in His timing. |
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