Herod Antipas decapitated John the Baptist.

In short, Herod married his brother’s wife, Herodias. This was contrary to biblical law. John the Baptist criticized him for it and was thrown in jail. 

During his birthday party, Herod made a lavish promise to his stepdaughter: “Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my kingdom” (Mark 6:23). His stepdaughter (at the request of her mother) requested John’s head on a platter. 

One of the things I think we’re supposed to see in this gruesome and tragic story is a contrast between a bad king (Herod) and the true King (Jesus). For example…

-Herod breaks God’s law, but Jesus fulfills God’s law (Matthew 5:17).
-Herod takes life, but Jesus gives life (John 3:16; 10:10).
-Herod is motivated by power, but Jesus is motivated by servanthood (Matthew 20:28).
-Herod uses others, but Jesus loves others (John 15:13).
-Herod makes fickle promises, but Jesus makes trustworthy promises (Mark 13:31).

Whose kingdom would you rather be a part of?

The ‘default setting’ of our world is one that looks closer to Herod’s than Christ’s. Breaking God’s law is normal (and sometimes celebrated). Human life isn’t valued very much. Many people want to accumulate power and influence. People use others. They break their word all the time.

Fortunately, Herod isn’t our King. Jesus is! 

The world around us is powerful and influential. That’s why we need frequent grounding in the grace and truth of God. 

Ours is a King of truth who gives life, is motivated by servanthood, who loves others, and who makes trustworthy promises. 

Let’s think, talk and act in a way that reflects the goodness of the One to whom we pledge allegiance.

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Notes:

–“A Colony of Heaven in a Country of Death.” Sermon. December 8, 2024. Click here.

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.