For Such a Time as This: Secrets of Strategic Living from the Book of Esther

by Ray C. Stedman

Beloved Bible teacher Ray Stedman’s unique three-dimensional view of the book of Esther examines the story from three as an historical document of actual events that took place in the life of the Jewish people; as a thrilling narrative of romance and suspense that reads like a gripping novel; and as a parable of profound and practical truth for our everyday Christian lives. The book of Esther has amazing relevance for the turbulent, troubled times in which we live. Its adventure-filled pages speak to us across the centuries and instruct us in how God wants us to live in the 21st century.

160 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2010

About the author

Raymond Charles Stedman was an evangelical Christian pastor and author. He was a long-time pastor of Peninsula Bible Church in Palo Alto, California, and author of several books.

Reviews

[Ed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a commentary or Bible study on the Book of Esther. Even though God is not mentioned, you can easily see God working throughout the book in bringing the Jews to safety through His mighty works. The book also shows us how to live the Christian life in victory once we become a Christian. Just reading the Book of Esther in the Bible is rewarding. This book brings out teachings that we can adopt in our own lives.

[Tor Espen Kristensen · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ray C. Stedman writes well, and it is in many ways a good read. But I cannot give more than two starts on this book. Stedman looks at then book of Esther as a parable. This leads to an allegoric interpretation that I am not happy with. He interprets Haman as the flesh, Mordecai as the Spirit, the king as our soul etc.

One could say that this should have been two books. One short about the book for Esther and one short book about the life in the spirit.

[David Michel Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Parable teaching of a true historical fact

The book came to my interest because several months ago in Iran an attempt was made to damage by fire the Tomb of Queen Ester and her husband the king. Her life was important to be biblical documented and included to know if this time before Jesus life and ministry.

[Kelsey · Rating 2 out of 5]

For me, this one wasn’t as good as His Revelation and John commentary. I just didn’t fully agree with some of his interpretation.

[Krystal Esmi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was by far the most insightful, spiritual, and deep interpretation of the book of Esther I've ever read. I have read others, but this one takes the cake. It made me look at all of the characters and their purposes in a completely new way. This book was 153 pages long, so it should have only taken a week or so to read. It was direct and straight to the point. I loved it! I would read it again and I would recommend it. This is the best Christian living book that I've read since the Purpose Driven Life.

[Valerie · Rating 2 out of 5]

If you are Christian, this is a great book. It analyzes and compares life, the trinity and much more to the story of Ester. I liked learning more about the history of Ester and things lost in translation. The book was short but still slow for me. I feel it could have been shortened to a 3 page article.

[Nic · Rating 3 out of 5]

A different view of Esther than I've studied before. Good points, worth the read.