#422 Esther 3 and the Question of Old Testament Violence

#422 Esther 3 and the Question of Old Testament Violence

From The Good Citizen Podcast by Joshua Hershberger: Attorney | Minister | Speaker

April 14, 2026 · 52 min

About this episode

The episode discusses Old Testament violence through the story of Esther, focusing on themes of justice, mercy, and standing up for one's beliefs.

In this chapter, we encounter Haman–the antagonist of the story–and the question of Old Testament violence. How should we answer objections about the destruction of Amalek and the Canaanites, and what do these stories teach us about God’s justice and His merciful plan to redeem humanity? Mordecai also models when and how to stand up for one’s beliefs, and King Ahasuerus models how not to rule kingdom as Haman manipulates the throne to order a genocide against the Jews. In this short but rich chapter, we find key lessons on justice and judgment, the folly of rage and feuds, a distinct public witness, and the meticulous providence of God. Series overview: Once upon a time—and I mean in God’s perfect time—a Jewish orphan girl named Esther became a Persian Queen. But, as many of you know, this book is less fairy tale and much more mystery—a book full of lessons about the mysteries of divine calling, evil and justice, finding courage to stand for truth, and understanding God’s eternal purposes in history and in our story. Though her husband claimed the title “king of kings,” Esther’s ultimate allegiance lay elsewhere—to the high King of the universe. In that…

People in this episode

Host: Joshua Hershberger

Topics covered

  • Old Testament violence
  • God's justice
  • mercy
  • standing up for beliefs
  • divine providence
  • judgment

Keywords

  • Esther
  • Old Testament
  • violence
  • justice
  • Mordecai
  • Haman
  • Canaanites
  • Amalek
  • God's providence

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Esther

Places: Amalek, Canaanites, Persia, Israel

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