Discussion Guide About the Film the Lessons Are Supplemented Website

Discussion Guide About the Film The lessons are supplemented website. These DVD clips are Please keep in mind that you do with movie clips you’ve either followed up with questions and not have to get through all the One Night With The King received or downloaded online. scripture found in the Discus- clips in order to have a success- chronicles the life of the young These clips were specifically sion Guide. The questions should ful discussion. Also, you do not Jewish girl, Hadassah (Tiffany selected to help you set the tone draw your group members into need to sacrifice a good conver- Dupont), who goes on to become and furnish the context for your a conversation about what they sation to finish the scenes. As the Biblical Esther and the Queen discussion or Bible study. There have just seen. It is not neces- we mentioned above, discussion of Persia, winning the heart of the are also suggested scriptures for sary to tackle these topics in a times go best when you al- fiercely handsome King Xerxes your group to study in-depth, and row or all in one session. If you low freedom, but still provide (Luke Goss) and the friendship we’ve provided several discussion would prefer just to cover one or the framework that will point of royal eunuch Hegai (Tommy provoking questions based on the two, feel free. It is all up to you. to lessons in God’s word. different scenes. This guide is an ‘Tiny’ Lister). This suspenseful DESIGNED FOR A PURPOSE story of her courage and God’s easy way to kick-start interest- First of all, introduce the discus- providence brings history to life as ing discussions within your small sion by saying something like this: the Jews are saved from annihila- group, and it works without any of “We’re going to talk about several Clip: Taken! tion at the hands of its archen- your group having seen the film. topics that relate to Esther’s cour- Clip: Favor emy. Based on the novel by Mark However, it is recommended that age, God’s providence, and how In the citadel of Susa, Mordecai Andrew Olsen, the screenplay is you announce your intentions of we are designed for a purpose. We has taken on the task of raising his written by Stephan Blinn, directed using the film clips ahead of time. have some scenes from the movie orphaned younger cousin, Ha- by Michael O. Sajbel and filmed For example, the week before you One Night With The King that dassah. But when Queen Vashti on location in Jodhpur, Rajast- intend to have a clip-oriented we are going to watch and then is deposed and a search begins han, India and Dallas, Texas. discussion, you might show the analyze to see what we can learn for her replacement, Hadas- film trailer (included with the from them.” Next, give a brief sah loses her identity and family About the Discussion Guide clips) to your group or congre- overview of the film. Then, play overnight. In the second scene, gation and let them know that the clip you have selected. Once God is in control behind the One Night With The King is a you will incorporate it into your the clip plays, then open the floor scenes when Esther finds “favor” family film for all ages. It pro- discussion the following week (or for discussion using the questions with the King’s eunuch, Hegai. the next time you meet). This will and scriptures that are provided vides an opportunity to discuss Questions God’s providential care, even in allow your members the opportu- or use some of your own. To fin- the midst of difficulty, and one’s nity to view the film themselves ish, you can close each session by Esther is a beautiful woman, responsibility to serve Him. (rent or purchase) if they so desire. giving the brief “Lesson to Learn” designed by God. However, it Understanding the themes of Discussions provided at the end of the topic. isn’t only her beauty that influ- the film–finding courage to serve ences others. Read Esther 2:7. God, discovering life’s purpose, NOTE Since some of your How do you think Esther’s and experiencing divine inter- In an effort to help you reinforce group members have likely not Jewish upbringing by Morde- vention–is the reason these and the themes and messages of One seen the film, it is a good idea cai plays a role in why Esther other topics are addressed in the Night With The King, we have to provide them with the con- is chosen by the king? Read I movie and why we’ve created chosen clips from the film that text of the clip before watch- Peter 3:3-5a & Esther 2:10-11. this Discussion Guide. With you can show to your group. These ing it. This can be found in the this booklet, you can utilize the clips can be downloaded online italicized text that precedes the God’s purpose for Esther messages in One Night With The at www.foxfaith.com or shown questions and scripture refer- is to save the Jews from an- King as a group discussion tool. through a specially made DVD ences for that particular clip. nihilation. Read Esther 2:8-9, that you can request at the same 1 woman–one who is able to read with Hegai, the king’s eunuch purpose will certainly make a and has a sense of history–liv- and he provides the best in ac- difference. God has equipped us ing in Susa, one of four Persian commodations for her. Later, she with personality, abilities, gifts capitals. Orphaned Hadassah has is favored by King Xerxes and and a passion that are unique to obviously learned her lessons well chosen to be the Queen of Persia; us. Who we are delights Him, and from her older cousin, Morde- all orchestrated to achieve God’s He has a special work for us to cai, who has stepped in to take purpose in His perfect time. accomplish in our lifetime. Even the place of her father. Over the though you may not see the plan years, Hadassah’s “adopted father” There are other instances in the clearly now, trust God to show has raised her to be respectful, Bible where God has swayed the you His purpose for your life. obedient, well mannered, and hearts of others to bring about His 15 & 17. Do you think God AN EVIL PLOT influences the feelings of others to love God; all characteris- purpose. For example, Joseph was toward someone He has chosen tics that appeal to everyone she sold into captivity by his brothers, for a specific assignment? Dis- meets, including King Xerxes. a fate that was difficult to endure. Clip: An Accusation cuss your thoughts. Next, read Nevertheless, he found “favor” Clip: A Refusal Genesis 39:1-4 & 21-23 about It isn’t until the king deposes with several individuals, includ- In the filmOne Night With Joseph who was also chosen Queen Vashti that Hadassah finds ing the pharaoh of Egypt. Ulti- The King, Haman stands in the by God and received “favor.” her world turned upside down, mately, God’s plan was revealed courtyard arguing for a war with thrust into his harem within the when Joseph was able to save Greece. His ultimate goal is to Esther was placed in the king’s palace gates. As she is taken from the Israelites from starvation. have King Xerxes view the Jews palace to help carry out God’s her home, Mordecai changes her as a danger to his kingdom. In plan to save the Jews. We are also name to Esther and cautions her In the same way, God designs the second scene, Haman’s anger designed by God to accomplish to not reveal her true identity as a us for a purpose. It may not be stems from an event with Morde- His purpose for our life and to Jew. The reason for this is that the as grand as what Esther accom- cai, but the underlying hatred has delight Him. Read Ephesians Jews are a hated minority; one that plishes in her lifetime, but our been in the making for centuries. 1:11-12, Colossians 1:16 & Psalm settled in the Persian Empire rath- 139:15-16. Describe the skills er than return to Jerusalem after and talents with which you were Cyrus defeated the Babylonians. born. How do you use these abilities in your career, in your com- Now, with Esther cloistered in munity, and with your family? a harem, God has a plan in the midst of tragic circumstances; Besides natural abilities, a plan that requires her to walk God has given all Christians through a heart-wrenching spiritual gifts. Read I Corinthi- journey, separated from family ans 12:11, 27-28. What do you and the life she has known. In think are your spiritual gifts? His wisdom, God has equipped How can you use your gift(s) her for the purpose for which for a ministry in the church? she was born–to save the Jewish people. Her beauty, graciousness Lesson to Learn and intelligence, plus a heart for In the film, One Night With The God give her an “edge” over the King, we see a beautiful young other women. She finds “favor”

2 3 Questions In the courtyard where the King Xerxes has elevated Ha- nobles debate the wisdom of man above all the other nobles another war with Greece, Ha- in the palace. Read Esther 3:1-4. man brings forth his evil plot. What reasons does Mordecai give Read Esther 3:5-15. What tactics in the film for refusing to bow does he use to convince King to Haman when he passes the Xerxes that the Jews should be king’s gate? What is the reac- annihilated? Discuss the half- tion of the other Jews nearby? truths that Haman tells the king and his advisors. Why do Haman is filled with pride you think the king listens? and furious that Mordecai will Lesson to Learn Cleverly, Haman has elevated are still responsible for follow- not honor him as the king has himself to the highest noble in the ing biblical teachings. When commanded. What piece of Mordecai finds himself in a dif- king’s court where he is extremely we don’t, there are far-reaching information do the royal of- ficult situation when he is told to influential. Knowing that King consequences. For example, we ficials give Haman that pushes kneel before Haman. As a practic- Xerxes is hesitant to attack Greece only have to think about children his “hot button?” Think about ing Jew, this action goes against again after an earlier disastrous who experience domestic violence, your “hot buttons.” What gets his belief system. Mordecai’s defeat–a loss of almost two mil- or a child who grows up undis- “under your skin” and why? refusal is even more infuriating lion soldiers–Haman prods the ciplined, to understand how this to Haman because of the report king with half-truths and fear behavior affects the generations Haman the Agagite has a deep- from the royal officers that this about the Jewish people’s loyalty. that follow. What we do now seated hatred of the Jews. What man is a Jew–Haman’s archenemy. Then, to show his commitment impacts the future. It’s something is in Haman’s background that to ridding the empire of this that God wants us to consider. has created these intense feelings? Evidently, Haman the Agagite is group of “Greek sympathizers,” Read I Samuel 15. How does a descendant of King Agag, ruler Haman offers his own money. COURAGE TO SERVE GOD Saul’s disobedience five hundred of the nomadic race the Amale- Convinced that removing the years earlier, play into Haman’s kites. These are the same people Jews is the first step in the war Clip: A Plea plot to kill the Israelites living in that God commanded King Saul plan, King Xerxes turns his signet Clip: Destiny the Persian Empire? What does to destroy, following a message ring over to Haman. Immedi- In the first scene, Mordecai sends God tell us about the sin of dis- from the prophet Samuel. Now, ately, the proclamation is written word to Esther of the edict and obedience in I Samuel 15:22-23? five hundred years later, Saul’s and sealed in the king’s name–a impending destruction of the disobedience comes back to haunt law that cannot be revoked. Jews. In scene two, Esther must the Jewish people in the Persian make a decision about her future Empire. Because of the Amale- Certainly, we can see what Saul’s and the future of her people after kites’ deep-seated hatred of the disobedience has brought to the hearing Mordecai’s second plea. Israelites, Haman sees Mordecai’s Jews generations later. It should refusal as an opportunity to finally give us pause for thought con- Questions get revenge. Consequently, he cerning our own obedience to Mordecai, upon hearing the forms a plan to annihilate the Jew- God’s commandments. Although news that an edict has been de- ish people in the kingdoms of Per- we no longer live by the law of clared to destroy the Jews, sits out- sia, Media, and Babylonia, which the Old Testament period, but side the palace gates in sackcloth are under the rule of King Xerxes. by the grace of Jesus Christ, we and ashes. Read Esther 4:1-5. As

4 5 black goat hair, she is deeply con- Mordecai’s warning. Realizing cerned for him. Even though she the truth, Esther agrees to ap- has “moved up the ladder” in the proach the king on behalf of the Persian Empire, she hasn’t forgot- Jewish people. She prepares for ten her roots or the love Mordecai the event by fasting and praying, has shown her through the years. knowing that a solution is impos- sible without God. Esther also When Mordecai won’t accept the asks Mordecai to gather all the new clothes that Esther sends Jews in Susa to fast and pray. to him, she understands that he is still in the midst of deep grief. We see throughout the Bible Upon further questioning by her where fasting is used for various a new queen with a prestigious When Esther responds a final place in society, what could Esther attending eunuch, she receives the reasons–to ask for guidance, in time to Mordecai, what is her re- written text of the edict, along with mourning, and to avoid temptation, have chosen to do in regards to her quest and plan of action? Read Es- foster father? What does Esther’s Mordecai’s plea–a request for her to name a few. In this instance, ther 4:15-17, 5:1-2, Mark 11:23- to approach the king and plead for prayer and fasting is done because concern say about her character, 24, Matthew 6:16-18 & Isaiah as well as her love for Mordecai? her people. However, Esther isn’t there is approaching danger. After 58:3-5. Discuss the importance quick to comply. Several concerns three days of meditation, Esther of prayer and fasting and what come into play, although only one dresses in her finest to approach Although Mordecai refuses it demonstrates before the Lord. the clothing she sends with the is specifically stated in the scrip- the king, knowing that her beauty Have you ever fasted and if so, for tures. First, is the law that forbids and respectful behavior will be her eunuch, Esther is determined how long? What was the result? to find out what is wrong. Read anyone under penalty of death to primary communication when she Esther 4:6-11. When she receives Lesson to Learn approach the king uninvited. Sec- enters the inner court. Although ondly, Esther has kept her identity death could be the consequence the answer, what do you see as her The announcement to annihilate hidden and to reveal that she is a of her action, God has prepared primary concerns? Discuss how the Jews on a specific day is sent Jew places her in the hated minor- the king’s heart to accept Esther. you would feel if you received the by couriers to all the provinces, ity. Does she want to risk her status same request to break the law, including the citadel of Susa. and prosperity by revealing this in- Perhaps, we can identify with risk your standing in the commu- When Mordecai learns of the formation to King Xerxes? If he is the concerns that Esther faced. nity, and possibly lose your life. cruel scheme by Haman, he is displeased he can easily depose her Imagine how one would feel if overcome with sorrow. He un- as he has done to Queen Vashti. asked to break a law, punishable After Esther relays the mes- derstands the law is irreversible by death, because a good cause sage to Mordecai that she would because the proclamation has This opportunity and choice to is at stake? Fortunately, that may be risking her life, what does he been written in the name of King serve God tests Esther’s character. never happen, but we may face say about her refusal to go be- Xerxes and signed with his ring. fore King Xerxes? Read Esther Mordecai reminds her that God something that seems equally as has placed her in the palace for this difficult. For example, we may feel 4:12-14. What part of the mes- Mordecai’s mourning takes place moment. He also believes that an called to break an unwritten code sage from Mordecai has more outside the palace gates where he act of unfaithfulness will follow among co-workers that disregards impact on her final decision, the wears sackcloth and ashes–a tradi- her. This thought is similar to the theft or misuse of property. Being fear factor or being God’s servant? tional way in his culture to express contemporary saying that it’s not the “whistle blower” when there Why? Now, think of a situation grief or repentance. When Esther what we do, but what we don’t do is unethical conduct can put us at where you are afraid, or have hears that he is wearing the rough, that troubles us later. Such was risk of losing friendships or even been afraid to step forward to thick, coarse cloth made from serve God. Why the hesitation?

6 7 his curiosity about her petition, when God is working behind act on behalf of King Xerxes. As the noise from the gallows being the scenes. One example is when a result, he writes an overruling built outside, or both? Now, read Esther is taken from her home edict with permission from the Esther 6:1-11. What happens as to King Xerxes’ palace; Morde- king to write it in the way that a result of the king’s sleeplessness cai warns her to not reveal her seems best to Mordecai. Who that illustrates God’s providence? identity. No doubt, at the time he could have known better than Discuss why Mordecai’s recogni- worries that she might be mis- this man what should be decreed tion was important at this time. treated or lose respect if her ethnic to save the Jews, allowing them identity is revealed. However, God to take up arms and attack their At the second banquet, Esther uses Mordecai to protect Esther enemies? God’s hand changes tells the king her petition–a plea and all the Jewish people from a the fate of His chosen people. our job. Undoubtedly, in our own for herself and the Jews. Read much bigger threat in the future– respective circle we have opportu- Esther 7:1-6. How do you see one that only God can foresee. In this story God’s providential nities that will test our character. the hand of God in the tim- care is evident, whether it is Ha- An excuse may seem reasonable, ing of her revelation that she Another time it seems–from a man casting the lot that allows but a difficult or dangerous task is a Jew? How would the story human perspective–as if Mordecai ample time for a new edict to be is no reason to reject a divine have been different if Esther had has gone unheralded for saving proclaimed, or Queen Esther be- duty. As in Esther’s time, God disregarded Mordecai’s instruc- the king’s life. Yet God is faith- ing in the right place at the right still gives us an opportunity to tions to hide her identity? ful. Mordecai’s heroic deed comes time to foil Haman’s plot. Yet the serve Him today. Will you say to light at the perfect time when name of Yahweh is never men- yes–or no–when He calls? After Haman is hanged on the loyalty of a Jew needs to be tioned in this book of the Bible the gallows, King Xerxes elevates reinforced in the mind of the even though behind the scenes GOD’S PROVIDENCE Mordecai to Haman’s former posi- king. It is ironic that very possibly He is in control. Today it is no tion. Read Esther 8:1-8. Why is it the construction of the gallows, different. God continues to watch Clip: Irony providential that Mordecai is now coupled with concern about over us, often taking a situation Clip: Foiled Plot wearing the king’s signet ring? Esther’s impending request, keeps that seems impossibly hopeless In the first scene, Mordecai’s King Xerxes awake. Consequently, and turning it into something revelation about a plot to kill When Haman develops his he calls for the chronicles that good. (Romans 8:28) Have faith King Xerxes has previously gone plan to rid the empire of the “just happen” to contain the record that God continually cares for unrecognized. Now the king Jews, a date needs to be set for of Mordecai’s heroism. It is some- you and is guiding your destiny. hopes to recognize the man ap- the massacre. Read Esther 3:7. what satirical that Haman is the propriately. In the second scene, The lot is cast and falls on a date one chosen to lead the horse and Esther has invited the king and eleven months away. Discuss why sing Mordecai’s praises through- Haman to a banquet where the delay is important. Now think out Susa, all because he happens God’s providence is revealed. about a time in your life when you to be standing in the court at the feel God has influenced circum- wrong time–or God’s perfect time. Questions stances. How did this divine After attending the first intervention affect your faith? Later when Haman is revealed as banquet that Queen Esther has Lesson to Learn the adversary and hanged, Mor- prepared, the king cannot sleep. decai is elevated to the vacant Read Esther 5:9-14. What do Throughout the book of Esther position. With that comes the you think has kept him awake; there are numerous occasions signet ring, which enables him to

8 9 One Night With The King chronicles the life of the young Jew- ish girl, Hadassah (Tiffany Dupont), who goes on to become the Biblical Esther and the Queen of Persia, winning the heart of the fiercely handsome King Xerxes (Luke Goss) and the friendship of eunuch Hegai (Tommy ‘Tiny’ Lister). This suspenseful story of her courage and God’s providence brings history to life as the Jews are saved from annihilation at the hands of its archenemy. Based on the novel by Mark Andrew Olsen, the screenplay is written by Stephan Blinn, directed by Michael O. Sajbel and filmed on location in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India and Dallas, Texas.

The Discussion Guide draws out the themes in the film and provides an opportunity to discuss God’s providential care even in the midst of difficulty, and one’s responsibility to serve Him. These and other topics are complete with thought provoking questions, related scriptures, and helpful lessons. To supplement the lessons, clips from the movie have been offered as a visual aid. These clips are available for download at www.foxfaith.com or may be shown through a specially made DVD that you can request at the same website. These clips and the guide, used in Sunday school classes, other small groups, or by parents will provide you with an opportunity to initiate discussion.

For more information and additional church resource material, go to www.foxfaith.com