April 28

Text: Matthew 14:3-5

For when Herod had John arrested, he bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip.  For John had been saying to him, "It is not lawful for you to have her."  And although he wanted to put him to death, he feared the multitude, because they regarded him as a prophet. (NASB)

In Jewish society, people devoted to application of the Law of Moses did not marry the woman who was married to a brother (see Leviticus 20:21).  Herod the tetrarch married Herodias, who previously was the wife of his brother.  John told Herod his marriage was wrong.  As a result, Herodias despised John, and Herod personally would have liked to have John executed.

John’s death would resolve two problems for Herod.  (1) John dared confront Herod—how dare John challenge the actions of the ruler?  (2) John’s death would bring peace to Herod’s household—an upset wife does not benefit a marriage. 

However, John’s execution could create a bigger problem than it solved.  To execute John might upset Herod’s subjects because they regarded John to be a prophet sent by God.  Killing John had the potential of challenging his rule IF upset Jewish subjects displeased the authorities in Rome who appointed Herod.  Thus, Herod considered it practical to imprison John--that was sufficient.

Notice Herod’s initial decision not to execute had nothing to do with John.  The decision concerned Herod’s best interest—it did not concern John’s best interest at all.  He decided what was in his best interest because he feared the multitude. Neither God nor John factored in Herod’s initial decision.

Suggestion for reflection: What is the basis of your decisions?  Read Esther 4 (17 verses).