Esther 9:30 - Homiletics

Words of peace and truth.

Words are of inestimable weight, for evil or for good. Human words move men mightily; and of Christ's words we know that they shall "never pass away." This description of the message which Mordecai and Esther sent to their countrymen throughout the empire is very significant. It consisted of words which, whilst they were words of truth, concealing nothing, declaring all, were yet words of peace, speaking peace unto Israel.

I. WORDS CAN REVEAL TRUTH . The speech uttered is the expression of the inner, the mental, speech.

1 . This should be the case in all instruction. Teachers should make it their first concern that their words should be words of truth. Especially should this be so in all religious instruction given and received.

2 . This is the case in the best and highest literature. We value language for its beauty; but its highest interest and charm lies in its power to embody truth.

3 . This is the case with Divine revelation, which is the truth of God, made known to us in him who is the Word, and in all inspired words.

II. WORDS CAN DIFFUSE AND RESTORE PEACE . They may do this by—

1 . Assuring the endangered of protection, as was the case in the narrative before us.

2 . Removing suspicion and fear, as friendly and gracious words have often power to do.

3 . Assuring offenders of reconciliation and favour. It is in this manner that the words of Christ's gospel are emphatically "words of peace."

III. WORDS OF TRUTH ARE THE SUREST FOUNDATION FOR WORDS OF PEACE . The peace brought about by false words is hollow, temporary only, and vain. But the full truth being declared, a sound and lasting peace may follow, heralded and assured by appropriate words. The Christian revelation exactly agrees with the description of these words; it brings truth to our understanding and peace to heart and life.