What can we learn about justice from the king's response in Esther 2:23? The Text in Focus “When the report was investigated and verified, both men were hanged on the gallows. And this was recorded in the Book of the Chronicles in the presence of the king.” (Esther 2:23) Justice Illustrated in Four Movements • Investigation — “the report was investigated” • Verification — “and verified” • Execution — “both men were hanged on the gallows” • Documentation — “recorded in the Book of the Chronicles” Key Principles We Can Learn • Truth-Seeking before Action – Deuteronomy 19:15 “A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” – The king did not act on rumor; he demanded evidence. • Accountability for Wrongdoers – Romans 13:3-4 “For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad… he is God’s servant, an avenger who carries out wrath on the wrongdoer.” – Swift punishment protected the realm and affirmed righteousness. • Transparency and Record-Keeping – Recording the judgment created a public, unalterable witness (compare Esther 6:1-2). – God Himself keeps books of remembrance (Malachi 3:16). • Protection of the Innocent – By removing the conspirators, the king safeguarded his subjects and preserved order (Proverbs 20:26). • Recognition May Be Delayed but Never Overlooked – Mordecai’s loyalty was noted yet unrewarded until the proper time (Esther 6); justice includes eventual honor for the righteous. Connecting to God’s Character • Psalm 9:8 “He judges the world with justice; He governs the peoples with equity.” • Justice in Persia echoes the higher standard of the LORD, who always judges rightly. • Micah 6:8 calls God’s people “to act justly,” mirroring the king’s measured response. Living Out These Truths Today • Value careful fact-finding; refuse gossip and haste. • Support systems that punish evil and protect the innocent. • Keep honest records—whether finances, promises, or decisions—to uphold integrity. • Trust God’s timing when your good deeds seem unnoticed; He writes every act in His own “Book of Remembrance.” A Glimpse of Greater Redemption The king’s decisive justice foreshadows the perfect judgment of Christ, who will expose every plot, vindicate the faithful, and establish everlasting righteousness (Acts 17:31). |
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