#12750 Why Are Esthers Chapters Not Sequential? Scripture Insights - Jimmy Akin

From Catholic Answers Live by Catholic Answers

June 6, 2026

About this episode

Jimmy Akin discusses the non-sequential chapters of the Book of Esther and explores various scripture-related questions.

“Why are Esther’s chapters not sequential?” This question leads to a discussion about the structure of the Book of Esther, addressing why it begins with chapter 10 and revisits earlier events. Other topics include the meaning of Romans 5:7, the implications of modern technology as a new Tower of Babel, and advice for those new to reading scripture. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:47 – I’m reading the RSV of the Book of Esther. Why are the chapters not sequential? It starts with chapter 10 (or so) and then later goes back to chapter 1. 12:50 – What does Romans 5:7 mean? “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die.” 20:26 – Could modern technology be a new Tower of Babel? 33:28 – What is the best scholarly work that refutes Bart Ehrman’s view that the gospels are not reliable? 42:05 – I am grew up, but I have not actually read much scripture before. I would like to start. What is the best way to start? I get bored easily, and I don’t want to start and then…

People in this episode

Host: Jimmy Akin

Topics covered

Book of Esther
Romans 5:7
modern technology
Tower of Babel
reading scripture
gospels reliability

Keywords

Esther
scripture
Romans
technology
Babel
Bart Ehrman
gospels
reading tips

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Book of Esther, Romans 5:7, gospels

Places: Emmaus