Summoned: Answering a Call to the Impossible: an 8-Week Study of Esther

by Megan B. Brown, Vivian Mabuni (Foreword)

Encounter the fullness of God’s grace, the power of His promises, and the beauty of His faithfulness—all through the life of one Esther. In a time when the world around her seemed to crumble, a young Hebrew girl found herself in a unique position to help save her people—and to encounter the greatness of our ever-faithful God. In Summoned , you’ll enter the story of Esther—her calling, pain, and role in God’s ultimate plan for salvation—and see how God is always working in the lives of His people, even when He seems distant. Through this 8-week, interactive study, you’ll develop a deeper appreciation for God’s Word and begin to see that stepping out in faith for His glory is often the first step to encountering His redeeming love.

240 pages, Paperback

Published May 4, 2021

Reviews

[The Film Director's Wife · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful study on the book of Esther!

I enjoyed that the author dug so much deeper than any other study of this book of Bible than I have ever done previously.

I loved how she showed God's hand at work throughout the entire book of Esther.

Definitely a study you want to check out!

[Laura - Book In Still Life · Rating 5 out of 5]

Biblical literacy has been in steady decline in Western churches for years. That’s why Bible studies like “Summoned,” by Megan B. Brown, are so vital.
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In this 8-week study of the book of Esther, Brown pushes far beyond a Sunday School understanding of this Jewish-Persian Queen, tackling the hard-hitting topics of sex trafficking, rape, racism and genocide. She presents Esther, not as a caricature or as a one-dimensional character, but as a full person, complete with hopes and dreams, triumphs and failures. Esther is a victim and a hero, a sinner and a saint, broken and bold, and Brown highlights each of these characteristics in turn.
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The study is well researched and laid out in an easy-to-follow manner as readers walk through the book of Esther verse by verse. While it begins with the basics of Biblical literacy, and as such would be appropriate for someone embarking on their first-ever Bible study, it was also comprehensive enough that someone with a strong understanding of the Bible would still find it enlightening. The study itself is interspersed with reading comprehension and personal reflection questions, opportunities to write scripture, and other means of interacting with the Biblical text beyond merely reading the (very good!) commentary.
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Through it all, Brown weaves the full story of the gospel of Jesus, proving that this oft-called “Godless” book of the Bible (God is not mentioned by name at all within its pages) is indeed sacred scripture.
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Appropriate for personal or group study, or as a possible resource for a preaching series, I would highly recommend this book to all who want to be challenged in their Biblical literacy and faith journey.
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Thank you to Moody Publishers for this gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Michaela Bush · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a very interesting study and is excellent either for personal or group use. Brown goes through the entire book of Esther, drawing cultural and contextual information to bring a much clearer picture of the story most Christians have known since childhood. She also presents some great suggestions for building Bible study skills. While there were a couple aspects I wish had been clarified a bit more in the book, the study overall is very interesting and compelling. It's definitely not the "Esther" we're used to -- and that's a fresh breath of air. In this study, Brown calls for the rejection of clean, softened "cultural Christianity" for the sake of growing closer to God with a more concise knowledge of the Bible and how God works through all things -- how His hand is in everything. Definitely good for a women's study!

[Caroline arrow_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 8-week Bible study, Summoned, covers the book of the Bible, Esther. This book digs much deeper in the story of Esther than my childhood Sunday school lessons. Even though God is not mentioned once in this book, you see God’s hand through the whole story. He is faithful and always at work! Through Scripture and Megan Brown’s words, I was encouraged and challenged in my own walk. There were several quotes I sent to a friend to reflect on with her. This is a perfect personal study, but I can also see it being great to do alongside with other women. ⁣
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Thank you to Moody Publishers for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. ⁣
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[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Probably one of the best study on Esther I have done! I love how she compares with current times throughout the study! Highly recommend!

[Pauline Magnússon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm so grateful that Megan took her love of Scripture and the knowledge and wisdom she's gained through her rigorous Bible study and applied it to the work of writing Summoned.

This is a perfect study for people new to Bible study and people more experienced alike. It includes a frank discussion about the need for Bible study informed by linguistic and cultural cues. As an Orthodox Christian, I am deeply committed to reading Scripture within the context of what it was originally intended to mean to its audience without superimposing my own ideas about meaning onto the text. Megan's Bible study is one of the first that I've seen within a Protestant Christian context that articulates this principle of exegesis. As a result, she invites the reader into a deeper understanding of the text and a deeper encounter with the Lord.

I would have liked to have seen an acknowledgement that there are differences in the Hebrew and Greek translations of the text of Esther (the latter including prayers from both Mordecai and Esther that do explicitly bring God into the text). That said, the relative depth of the study, particularly compared to other Bible studies that are marketed to women, still makes this a fruitful encounter well worth bringing to your next women's Bible study.

I especially appreciate Megan's discussion of the complexity that Esther faced (and the complexity we all face) in the tension between God's grace within us and the brokenness we face in life within this world because of the Fall. I think readers will experience God's mercy anew as they connect with the story of Esther through Megan's work in Summoned.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly unique way to gain confidence in studying, enjoying and learning God's word. Inspiring, beautifully written and engaging. I am learning more with each page and gaining confidence in reading my Bible. Megan digs deep into God's word and helps walk us through ways to become lifelong learners in studying the Bible. This study guide brought Esther to life for me. I had heard the story of Esther my entire life but never learned more about her or the circumstances surrounding her until I began this Bible study. Highly recommend for truth and in depth learning.

[Prairie Sky Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I saw the newest addition to the Moody Bible Studies for Women collection, I was so excited to see the topic! “Summoned: Answering a Call to the Impossible - An 8-Week Study of Esther” was written by Megan B. Brown, and is about the book of the Bible named after a young, secretly-Jewish queen... But let me also say, this book takes you on a journey deep behind-the-scenes of Esther’s story that is unlike any you’ve taken before.

Ms. Brown does not sugarcoat this well-known tale of King Ahasuerus’ search for a new wife, nor does she make it into a tale of romance or a guiding word of wisdom about how Esther’s actions in gaining the position of queen may be emulated. None of these were the purpose of this little book in the Bible, and for the first time I was made to consider what exactly the true purpose was.

What about you? Have you ever asked yourself why Esther is included in the canon of Scripture? Perhaps now is the time to do just that. And perhaps you will be as surprised by the answer as I was.

I really appreciated the depth and rawness of “Summoned”, and I am so glad I took the journey through its pages. Not everything felt totally relevant to me - for example, it was geared slightly more towards women with children and military families in particular - but the majority of it was both educational and challenging to my own life and role as a daughter of God. It featured thought-provoking study questions, helpful cross-references, and powerful applications that really help the Scriptures become understandable and relevant.

As with every single Moody Bible Study for Women that I have read, I highly recommend this new addition to the collection. I do feel that “Summoned” should come with a bit of a warning label - it is not for the faint of heart, because it does not hesitate to tackle troubling questions head-on. But if you are prepared for this, then the benefits of this study will unfold exponentially as you journey back in time to the palace of Xerxes. There, we watch and interact as God carefully orchestrates the life of a young girl named Esther into his overarching tale of love for his people.

I received this book courtesy of Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Diane Estrella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Usually studies on the book of Esther are fluffy and full of "be bold" and "be strong" like Esther, and that's about as cliché as it gets.

The author is quick to add her disclaimer, that, this ain't that kind of Bible study! (For which I am eternally grateful!)

The author does a great job of diving deep, and then even deeper, into the darkness of the villians included in Esther and then has the reader dive just as deep into their own darkened hearts and minds. It's easy to read through things quickly or maybe not understand the entire history surrounding certain events or data and much can be missed. I truly appreciate the in-depth lengths the author went through to bring every bit of understanding and conviction to this study, so that the reader can experience these true historical events and apply them to their lives today.

The only "heads up" I would offer the reader is that some of the topics covered may be sensitive and/or "triggering," (I hate to even use this word but it does seem fitting here.). Subjects such as rape, castration, and racism are included along with other difficult issues are brought up. I would encourage the reader to push through and receive any healing that God may have for you on these topics and many others through this book. Highly recommended to read individually or in a group setting.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Moody Publishers and was under no obligation to post a review.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read several Bible studies and books about Esther over the past year--each with different and interesting views on Esther's thoughts, behavior and motives. All unique in their presentation and all very good and beneficial. You can never have enough good studies on the Bible, especially those that encourage and motivate you to study the Bible for yourself. You learn something new every time you read and study a book of the Bible.

Megan Brown's "Summoned" is the most recent study on Esther. As are most of Moody Publisher's studies, "Summoned" is a weekly study (8-week) with daily work that incorporates insights of the portion of Scripture along with your own study and observation. This is great as a group study and profitable as an individual study.

While Brown goes into depth in her discussion, she also offers opportunities for meditation and thought into Esther's story and God's Word. I hope you will include this study in your next small group or individual quiet time with God. I have always enjoyed and benefitted from Moody Publisher's selection of Bible studies.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Moody Publishers, as part of its book review blogger program. I was not required to write a review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

[Emily Jones · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was assigned "Summoned" to teach from as part of a collaborative women's group in my community, and I worked through the study guide in preparation.

"Summoned" starts off strong in the preface. Overall, I didn't find anything blasphemous or grossly misleading. I appreciate some of the historical anecdotes, the encouragement to read Scripture in context, and how understanding the text's original language leads to a more accurate interpretation.

My biggest complaint is that opinions are represented as facts, and I came away feeling more coerced than invited to explore God's Word. Each day begins with a prompt to read the current chapter of Esther in its entirety as well as the Scripture focus for that day. However, most weeks veered too far away from Esther for me. Taking an interpreted theme from the passage (i.e., sex slavery, racism, The Great Commission, church involvement, etc.), the entire week would focus on examples of those topics and prompt the reader with ways to respond to those issues. Everything else mainly has to do with personal preference, such as my distaste for the many references to modern day entertainment (MTV, VH1, TV shows, movies, and multiple nods to Alanis Morrisette). I would've felt different if I were simply reading a book, but they felt out of place in a Bible study. I also found myself disagreeing with several of the author's assessments.

Ultimately, we decided against using this guide for our group.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a funny coincidence, this study happened to come out right when I was searching for any type of book on Esther. If you haven't looked, there really isn't a lot out there on Esther. Perhaps a snippet here and there or a few pages in a book full of other characters. A full in depth study on Esther is few and far between. So I was thrilled when I got this book. I wanted to teach my small group about Esther but I had to do a lot of studying on my own first. This book really has a lot of great information and has been so helpful in my study of Esther. There are so many things I didn't realize even after reading Esther many times. I like this particular study because it is literally straight out of scripture. You read the verses, there are some questions, and some thought provoking ideas that are Biblical based. I have looked up a few things to verify the accuracy and it has been spot on. There isn't a lot of "fluff" and many women's studies these days are all "fluff". This book just breaks down the story and explains what was going on historically at the time. I think this is a great personal study and a good addition if reading Esther for a small group.


Five Stars.


"I received this book from Moody Publishers for free. All opinions are my own and I was not required to write a positive review."

[Christin Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Megan Brown has a beautiful way of expressing hard truths through sweet grace. You need this book if you are looking for a Bible study that does not pander to women’s feelings, but instead focuses on the glory of God. Rather than approaching the book of Esther as a beauty pageant, Megan tactfully deals with the harshest aspects of the story, including aspects of sex trafficking, submission, genocide, racism, and more. Megan writes in a way that makes you feel like you are sitting over coffee with a trusted friend, and her genuine approach draws you into the topic even more. Perfect for an eight-week study, there is an introduction before the first week, and the eighth week is a condensed final cap. Weeks one through seven include five days each, which include an exegesis of the passage, looking at geography, history, context and application. Each day includes a mix of answering questions from the text, introspective ponderings, transcribing scripture, and application. The gospel is clearly presented, and the sovereignty, providence, and goodness of God is showcased. It’s good. Really, really good. 🌿

[Marc Bougharios]

Having always wanting to read the book of Esther, I was always hesitant because I didn't know a lot of the historical context in the Old Testament. Enter Summoned!

I'm so glad that I read this 8 week study! The first thing about this study that I loved was that it was gospel-centred. Not in only in the way that it was sticking to the book of Esther, but also how it would refer to other passages in the Bible to reflect on. It just goes to show how the Old and New Testament have a lot of similarities.

I loved how this plan was broken down. It's usually 4-5 verses a day, so if you struggle with retaining too much information when you're reading the Bible like me, this study is perfect! it doesn't cram too much information in one day and Brown is very clear about everything she talks about.

Overall, this was such a wonderful study! I'm always trying to dive into reading more of the Old Testament, and this was a great place to start! Discussing many themes from racism to God's providence, this well-researched plan goes to show just how much God is in charge of our lives and how we are to trust in Him daily.

[Ali C · Rating 3 out of 5]

I could not finish it.

There was a lot here about taking Bible study seriously and personally. Which I totally get and agree with, but there was so much that I found it distracting.

I’m having trouble reconciling this desire to take Bible study seriously with the relaxed wording she uses to reference real people from Biblical history, like “our boy Haman,” (which is totally something I would say but probably not something I would put into print.)

Lots of assumptions are made about Xerxes right out of the gate. The author suggests that a modern Xerxes would have a dually truck to “compensate for something.” She seems to indicate that Xerxes was likely a narcissist. (If you’re hunting for narcissism you’re going to find it, because that’s the nature of sin.) Xerxes was a king of an absolutely massive empire, so for me it feels difficult (and possibly unimportant) to discern what is narcissism and what is just being king of THE Persian Empire.

I love the author’s desire and heart for people to know the scriptures deeply, I think I was personally not a good match for this study but I don’t think that would be the case for all readers.

[Becky Cortino · Rating 5 out of 5]

Facing Challenges Requires Stepping Out in Faith, Armed With Truth:

In Summoned, Megan Brown takes a fresh look at Queen Esther, presenting an exceptional Bible study with great breadth and depth of knowledge drawn from her own study and personal experience. Throughout this book she challenges readers to go deeper in considering powerful questions with real life applications. Brilliant bits of insight into the life, times and traditions during Queen Esther’s days are included throughout. These details add an essential backdrop in understanding how Esther’s answering her (seemingly impossible) call to help save her people began by stepping out in faith, leading her to encounter God’s greatness. This study based on Queen Esther’s life shows us how we can trust in God’s bold plans for our lives, arise confidently and join in today’s battles, too.

[Wendy Park · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had high hopes for doing this study, wanting to really dig in at length in Esther. Unfortunately, that is not this book. The “study” is mostly the author’s commentary on the book and a few, shallow comprehension questions in each lesson. While some of the commentary is alright, others are tangents and conjecture. One bad example on page 34 when she theorizes that the golden utensils from the temple might have been used in King Xeres’s banquet, directing us to Ezra 6:5 for context. However, Ezra 1:7 makes it very clear these were returned to the Jews under the reign of Cyrus, many years before the events in Esther. If you are looking for a very basic overview of Esther, this book may be for you. If you want to dive deeper into the text, look elsewhere.

[Amanda Gardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I haven’t read the Bible chapter of Esther until I received this book as an ARC. Wow!!! Is all I can say it’s amazing . The author is going to take you on her journey through the good and bad . Megan Brown goes in deep with this story that will make you stop in your tracks and say oh my goodness. The things she had to over come and all the adversity she struggle with . This book will help you grown more in God’s word, and how God will work through your life just like He did Esther. It will show you how faithful God was to Esther . This is a WOW!!! book . And I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to go on the Esther’s journey with her .

[Julie H · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is an 8 week study, 8 weeks is a long time, the daily work/reading takes about 30 minutes so this book is a major commitment. - Week 1: Summoned to the Start - Week 2: Summoned to Seek - Week 3: Summoned to Scrutinize - Week 4: Summoned to Share Sorrow - Week 5: Summoned to Selflessness - Week 6: Summoned to Study - Week 7: Summoned to Sift the Scriptures - Week 8: Summoned to Serve

The study does a good job of showing how God works throughout the book of Esther. It is a deeper look than the typical strength and boldness themes often associated with Esther studies.

I received a copy of this book from Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

[Carolyn Reardon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Bible study book was a verse by verse , section by section study of the book of Esther. This study taught me to really read and try to grasp all that was happening, including looking at history of that time to better understand the scriptures themselves. It taught me that even though God’s name was never mentioned, that you can see He was behind all that took place.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great in-depth Bible study of Esther. There is so much more to the story than Esther being brave. We studied this book in our women’s Sunday School class over a period of about 4 months. It’s a verse by verse study. Enjoyed the author’s insights and illustrations.

[Amber Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

So deep. Brought to light so many things I had never considered or thought of. Great study guide. Hope this author writes more.

[Emily Goodson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful Bible Study that brings Esther and her story to life! Thank you Megan for being so vulnerable in your writing and for really inviting your readers into your thoughts and Christy ways!

[Raquel Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summoned by Megan B. Brown is a great bible study guide for women. It's a perfect study guide for those who already know the story of Esther and those who don't as well. You don't have to have previous knowledge on Esther to enjoy and comprehend the study guide. As you continue with the study guide, it guides you very deep into the scriptures giving you historical context and cultural awareness of that specific time period. I really enjoyed the layout of the book as well. Everyday you beguin by reading a specific verse, and after that a little bit of background info explaining what we read. I like that It's interactives, it has fill in the blanks and questions to answer and it has the author's intake on what was read for that specific day. I strongly recommend this devotional of your interested on reading about Esther and knowing more about her life and her time period. I received a copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of this review.

[Sandi Banks · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are wondering how anything new could possibly be written or taught on the book of Esther, you’re in for a treat. Megan Brown’s Summoned is fresh and relevant, filled with thought-provoking questions, spiritual truths, historical insights and engaging stories. This study is unlike any I have ever encountered. It will make you think. And laugh. And reflect on your own life, while marveling at the awesome God who wants to be a part of it. As you open the pages of this book, whether you are a newbie to the Bible or a seasoned scholar, be prepared to be challenged, and changed. I can’t wait to see how God will use it in your life, and mine.

[Liz Bossard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Megan has a fresh take on Esther. Her witty banter and clear study of the context of history in this passage team up for an amazing deep dive into a book that may have felt too familiar. I have learned so many nuances that I have overlooked in the past. I have seen God is a whole new way and been able to reconnect my heart to the sovereignty of the King of kings.

[Beth Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! What an amazingly Gospel-centered Bible Study on the book of Esther!

The author does a wonderful job of walking the reader verse-by-verse through the book of Esther, all the while keeping our eyes fixed on the finished work of Jesus Christ!