Esther 3:15 The posts went out, being hastened by the king's commandment, and the decree was given in Shushan the palace… I. THE INEQUALITIES OF HUMAN CONDITIONS. 1. The most striking instance of inequality is that which is illustrated between the condition of the oppressor and the oppressed. 2. This is further illustrated by the contrast between the jollity of the palace and the perplexity of the city. 3. The indifference of one class of the community towards another and seemingly less favoured class is brought to view in this passage. 4. This indifference has its root in and is the outcome of selfishness. II. THE MYSTERIES OF HUMAN CONDITIONS. Haman feasting with the king, Mordecai mourning at the king's gate. III. THE COMPENSATING FORCES OF HUMAN CONDITIONS. The pleasure of Ahasuerus was not a permanent stream. The glory of Haman was soon tarnished. The sorrow of Mordecai was turned into laughter. IV. THE SYMPATHETIC ELEMENT IN HUMAN CONDITIONS. Sorrow draws men and women more closely together than joy. When one part of a city suffers, the whole of the city should be perplexed. V. THE HARMONISING PRINCIPLE FOR HUMAN CONDITIONS. What principle is there that is to adjust in fit proportions the various parts and members of human society? The gospel rightly understood, broadly interpreted, and fully received. The gospel dethrones selfishness, and teaches the true brotherhood of humanity. VI. THE TRUE SUSTAINING POWER FOR ALL HUMAN CONDITIONS: "Even our faith." The true help in life's difficulties is to go into the sanctuary of God. By faith and prayer the world's true heroes have ever conquered. Here learn — 1. To keep away from sensuality, which hardens the nature. 2. To cultivate sympathy, which ennobles the nature. 3. To foster firm faith in an overruling power, which brightens life. 4. To have respect unto the harmonies of heaven amid the discords of earth. (W. Burrows, B. A.). Parallel Verses KJV: The posts went out, being hastened by the king's commandment, and the decree was given in Shushan the palace. And the king and Haman sat down to drink; but the city Shushan was perplexed. |
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