The sermon “Voices of Reason” by Cole Tuck, delivered on Sunday, January 18, 2026, draws powerful lessons from the Book of Esther (particularly chapter 4) to emphasize the critical role of wise, godly counsel in our lives. Using a relatable personal anecdote about falling for an email scam, where the preacher admits he ignored red flags until others pointed them out, the sermon illustrates how we often need an external “voice of reason” to avoid poor decisions, whether in everyday matters like reckless driving, extravagant spending, health neglect, or major moral choices.
The core biblical example is Esther’s initial reluctance to approach King Ahasuerus uninvited to plead for the Jews facing genocide under Haman’s decree. Esther’s first response is self-protective and fearful: approaching the king risks death, and she hasn’t been summoned in 30 days. She focuses on her immediate physical danger rather than the spiritual stakes. Mordecai, her cousin and adoptive father figure, serves as her voice of reason. He bluntly warns her that silence won’t save her or her family (the decree targets all Jews, including those in the palace), reminds her that God can deliver the Jews another way if needed, but she and her household would perish if she stays silent. Crucially, he shifts the perspective spiritually: “Who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” (Esther 4:14). This godly counsel moves Esther from selfishness to courage—she calls for fasting and prayer among the Jews, then resolves, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16)—leading to the salvation of her people.
The sermon highlights three key takeaways:
- Surround yourself with voices of reason — Seek people who bring God and Scripture into conversations, not just those who affirm your desires or take your side blindly (contrasting modern “yes-men” or overly permissive “tolerance” with true love that corrects).
- Be a voice of reason — Lovingly speak truth to others, even when difficult or uncomfortable, as Mordecai did. Silence in the face of sin or harm (to self or others) shares responsibility (referencing Ezekiel 3:18–20). True love warns, corrects, and points to God rather than enabling wrongdoing.
- Be receptive to reason — Embrace correction humbly, as Esther did without defensiveness. Fools think their way is always right and hate discipline, but the wise listen to advice (Proverbs 12:15; 12:1—”whoever hates correction is stupid”).
The message closes with encouragement to cultivate spiritually minded relationships, be open to godly correction, and approach others with grace—ultimately pointing to Jesus as the ultimate source of reason and salvation.
Talking Points
- Everyday “scams” in life (financial, relational, moral) often need an outside perspective to spot—don’t isolate decisions.
- Esther’s story shows even heroic figures start with fear and self-focus; godly counsel redirects to courage and purpose.
- Mordecai’s blunt truth-telling models loving confrontation: he risks offending Esther because he cares about her eternal well-being and God’s plan.
- Modern culture often equates love with unconditional affirmation; biblical love includes correction to prevent harm.
- Being a “voice of reason” may feel hard (wanting to be liked), but silence implicates us in others’ downfall (Ezekiel reference).
- Wisdom involves humility—loving discipline and correction leads to growth (Proverbs references).
- Apply this in family, friendships, church, and work: seek/receive godly input, offer it gently, and prioritize spiritual over purely physical reasoning.