Mordecai — What Greatness Looks Like
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For Such a Time as This
1. Mordecai's Selflessness
Mordecai demonstrated deep selflessness as an adoptive father. When Esther’s parents died, he took her in and cared for her as his own. Orphans are close to God's heart throughout scripture. Taking in a child is a big expense and a life-altering commitment. Mordecai didn't treat Esther as a burden or a servant but visited her daily, cared for her, and gave her advice because he genuinely loved her.
This type of selflessness reflects God's heart. We are called to put others ahead of ourselves and live sacrificially. James 1:27 describes pure religion as caring for orphans and widows and keeping oneself unstained from the world. Philippians 2 calls us to look not only to our own interests but also to the interests of others.
Personal stories of sacrificial love, like those shared about the couple who took in a pregnant woman and the pastor's father caring for his mother after her stroke, show this call in action. True selflessness means serving without complaint and putting the needs of others before our own desires.
2. Mordecai's Humility
Mordecai was humble. After saving the king’s life, he did not seek credit or reward. It took five years before the king even realized what Mordecai had done. Mordecai didn’t promote himself; he let God be in control and trusted His timing.
C.S. Lewis said, "Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less." Mordecai lived this out, as did other biblical figures like Moses, described as the most humble man on earth, and John the Baptist, who said, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
Jesus demonstrated ultimate humility when He washed the disciples’ feet, taking the position of a servant. Humility means not seeking recognition but putting others first and serving them regardless of status or reward.
3. Mordecai's Loyalty
Mordecai was deeply loyal. While working at the king’s gate, he learned of an assassination plot against King Xerxes and reported it rather than ignoring it or joining in. Loyalty means sacrifice, protecting friends, and making tough choices. Mordecai chose loyalty to God and his people over his own safety and convenience.
Jonathan’s loyalty to David is another example. Despite being the heir to the throne, Jonathan supported David because he knew God’s plan. David, in turn, honored Jonathan’s descendants even after his death.
Loyalty requires us to stand by our commitments even when it’s hard. In marriage, friendships, and our relationship with God, loyalty is foundational. God desires loyalty above all, and He Himself is loyal, empowering us to be loyal to Him.
4. Living for a Higher Purpose
Mordecai challenged Esther to live for a higher purpose: to risk everything to save her people. His famous words, "for such a time as this," called her to step into her God-given purpose despite fear and uncertainty.
God places each of us in positions and situations for His purposes. Nothing is by accident; He knows every detail about us, even the number of hairs on our heads. We each have a calling that extends beyond personal comfort or ambition. It is not just pastors who are called; all believers are called to love, serve, and influence those around them for God’s kingdom.
Our higher purpose might be to reach out to a neighbor, support someone in need, step into ministry, or invest in our families. We are called to make choices that reflect God's love and invite others into His story.
Closing Challenge
We can choose to boast in ourselves or live like Mordecai—selfless, humble, loyal, and driven by a higher purpose. We have limited time on earth, and God calls us to live intentionally and courageously for such a time as this.
Prayer
Father, thank you for Mordecai and his example. Help us to be selfless, humble, loyal, and to live for a higher purpose. May we model our lives after You and not miss the calling You have for each of us. Thank you for being the perfect Father who loves us unconditionally. In Jesus' name, Amen.
SERMON DETAILS
Speaker: John Westurn
Sermon Title: Mordecai — What Greatness Looks Like
Date: Jun 16, 2024
SCRIPTURE REFERENCES
Esther 4:13–14
Esther 4:16
Esther 10:3
Philippians 2
James 1:27
2 Corinthians 10:17–18
Romans 12:3
Numbers 12:3
John 3:30
John 13:6–9
2 Chronicles 16:9
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