Podcasts about herod archelaus

As Jesus journeys to Jerusalem, He tells a parable that echoes the story of Herod Archelaus, who is a harsh ruler. In fact, his own subjects protested his reign. In the parable, a nobleman departs to receive a kingdom, entrusting his servants with a single mina each. Upon returning, he rewards those who invested wisely with more, but punishes both the rebellious citizens and the servant who protected his mina through burial.The parable carries both historical familiarity and moral tension. This parable that echos Herod Acrhelaus is shocking for audience. You see the servant who hid his mina may appear cautious, even virtuous because he does not engage in loan sharking or charge his fellow man interest. The servant is not rebuked for breaking the rules; he's condemned for failing to act in faith. The kingdom of God, Jesus implies, is not preserved through caution or fear. It grows through bold, obedient trust, and living out the gospel in Christ's Spirit. This parable challenges us to reject passive discipleship. We are not called to simply maintain what we've been given, but to take risks for the sake of Christ's name.The nobleman is not a one-to-one symbol of Christ, but his story exposes the high calling of discipleship. Jesus' followers live between His first and second coming, stewarding the gospel with courage and faith. We are pilgrims journeying toward Zion, not clinging to worldly safety, but walking by the Spirit. True wealth and stewardship are not what we accumulate but who we become in Christ. We are empowered in Christ, we live as living sacrifices, and we live in light of Christ's certain return.

Title: Problematic Paperwork Text: Acts 25:13-27 FCF: We often struggle remaining focused when the ungodly use political means for selfish gain. Prop: Because God providentially accomplishes His plan through political maneuvering, we must stay focused on the Kingdom of God. Scripture Intro: [Slide 1] Turn in your bible to Acts chapter 25. In a moment we'll read from the Legacy Standard Bible starting in verse 13. You can follow along in the pew bible or whatever version you prefer. Last week, Paul once again faced a preliminary hearing in front of his Jewish accusers. But this time he sat before the new governor of the area, Festus. Festus is historically known as a fair and wise ruler who helped ease the tensions between Rome and the Jews in the few years he served as the procurator of the province. But last week we saw how, in an attempt to establish good will and favor among the more elite Jewish men, he tried to move Paul's trial to Jerusalem. He also knew that if he desired to better understand the religious disputes between Paul and the Jews, the best place for this would be Jerusalem. But, as we know, Paul used a Roman law which protects Roman citizens from unjust judges and unscrupulous accusers. Paul appealed to Caesar. This effectively ended the preliminary trial and set in motion the events that would lead to Paul arriving in Rome as Jesus said he would. But today, we will see an interesting interaction between two local rulers. Festus has a problem and he is hoping Herod Agrippa the Second can help him find a solution. His problem boils down to… of all things… paperwork. Please stand with me to give honor to and to focus on the reading of the Word of God. Invocation: Almighty God and infinite Father You are above all things. You are surprised by nothing. You have written everything. All things are known to You and Your arm is never too short to reach or too weak to lift that which You desire. So much so that even the will of men is not in Your way. Instead, You paradoxically work through men's wills to accomplish Your purposes while still maintaining absolute control and giving men responsibility for their choices. It is a tension in scripture that many attempt to explain but often cheapen one or both of these truths in the process. Father help us to see how You have ordered all things so that we can trust Your promises that all things work together for good for those who love You and are called according to Your purposes through Your Son. Use Your Spirit today to teach us once again these valuable truths. We pray this in Jesus' name. Amen. Transition: Let us get right to the text today to see what the Lord has for us. I.) God providentially accomplishes His plan through political maneuvering, so we must trust the Lord. (13-22) a. [Slide 2] 13 - Now when several days had passed, King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Caesarea and greeted Festus. i. So who is Herod Agrippa and Bernice? ii. Herod is a name mentioned several times throughout the New Testament, but logic would dictate to us that not all Herods can be the same Herod. iii. Furthermore, we have second names added to the end of some which help to differentiate some Herods from others. iv. The Scriptures mention Herod the Great, Herod Philip I, Herod Antipas, Herod Archelaus, Herodias, and Herod Agrippa. But who's who? v. [Slide 3] On the screen behind me we see the Herodian dynasty and where each person is mentioned in the scriptures. vi. Herod the Great ruled when Jesus was born. He had several wives giving many kingly heirs who divided the region of Judea. vii. All of the Herodian line served as Jewish Kings ruling under the direct supervision of the Roman Empire. They were uniquely suited to rule because they were Jews but were loyal to the Empire. viii. In the book of Acts we've seen Herod Agrippa the I, who is the grandson of Herod the Great, he killed James the son of Zebedee and imprisoned Peter in Acts 12. ix. In this text, this is Herod Agrippa the First's Son. Herod Agrippa II. x. Herod Agrippa II studied in Rome under Emperor Claudius. Claudius was quite fond of him and was prepared to give all of Judea to him to rule, but when Herod's father died he was only 17 years of age and was not old enough to navigate the tensions growing at the time. xi. When he turned 21 Emperor Claudius gave him rule over several territories to the East and Northeast of Judea. Still, Claudius, up to his death, gave more area for Agrippa II to rule as often as he could. This continued through to Nero, Claudius' son, and Nero actually awarded Agrippa II the city of Caesarea Philippi, which he renamed Neronias in honor of the Emperor who gave him the city to rule over. xii. One of the territories Claudius gave Agrippa came with the role of becoming curator of the temple. From the vestments that were required, to the appointing of the High Priest, Agrippa the Second was the official secular head of the Jewish religion. xiii. But who is Bernice? Well, keen observers would notice that Bernice is listed next to Herod Agrippa and Drucilla. What does this mean? xiv. Bernice and Drucilla are both Herod Agrippa II's sisters. xv. Drucilla, we know was married to Felix, but who is Bernice married to? xvi. Well, that is the awkward part. In her lifetime she was married three times. She was also the mistress of Emperor Vespasian's son Titus. xvii. And while we could see her here as an adviser or co-ruler with her brother, rumors abound implying an incestuous relationship. Probably these were fueled by the fact that every time one of these marriages or adulteries failed, she returned to live and rule with her brother. xviii. Scholarship seems sharply divided over whether or not there was actually an incestuous relationship here. Modern scholars seem to favor the idea that although the rumors abounded, this was probably all they were. Rumors. xix. In fact, many scholars note that Agrippa II and Bernice were actually fairly moral people for being Hellenized and Romanized Jews. They often aided the poor, supported justice, and generally upheld the common good of the people over which they ruled. xx. They were no where near righteous people and certainly they could do all these things and the rumors still be true. xxi. They arrive, no doubt to greet Festus and welcome him to the area. But Festus intends to benefit from their visit in another way. b. [Slide 4] 14 - And while they were spending many days there, Festus laid Paul's case before the king, saying, i. It was a great opportunity for Festus to involve Herod and Bernice on this case for several reasons. I'll try to highlight that as we go forward. ii. Festus will go on to describe his impression of the preliminary trial which ended in Paul's Provoactio Ad Caesarem. – his appeal to Caesar. iii. The Emperor at the time was Nero. 1. When we Christians hear that name, immediately we wonder why Paul would have appealed to this man for help. 2. But at this time, Nero is only 22 years old and about 5 years into his reign. He has been aided by Seneca and Burrus, two tutors who helped him make wise decisions as a ruler. 3. Most recently in the spring of AD 59 his mother committed suicide, at least that is what the general population thought. In reality, he had his mother killed. 4. So, Nero is starting to go off the rails a little, but he is nowhere close to where he would be in AD 64 and beyond. 5. As long as his tutors are alive, he will continue to make wise decisions. Up to, a little after Paul stands trial before him. 6. Interesting how his good leadership lasts until Paul is released. iv. But why does Festus even bring this up to Herod? v. As we'll see in a few moments, Festus truly is perplexed by this case. vi. As one of, if not the first case he tries as a governor, he must be a bit discouraged to have it be so odd. vii. Herod Agrippa, though not being a righteous person, had already been a successful ruler in the area for over a decade. He's had experience with Jewish people, being one of them, and with the Jewish religion and its intricacies and finer points of theology, being the temple's curator. He is also a favorite of Emperor Nero and his father before him. viii. It makes a lot of sense actually that Festus would open up to Herod in this way and seek his perspective on the matter. Because Festus has a problem. ix. That problem is that this case seems open and shut but because Paul has appealed to Caesar, he's got to figure out what to put in his report to the Emperor. x. So the following is Festus' view of the case. Let's break it down. c. [Slide 5] “There is a man who was left as a prisoner by Felix; 15 - and when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews brought charges against him, asking for a sentence of condemnation against him. 16 - I answered them that it is not the custom of the Romans to hand over any man before the accused meets his accusers face to face and has an opportunity to make his defense against the charges. i. So already we see a few things that Festus says that is different than what Luke recorded previously. ii. The details though are very compatible with what Luke said and do not contradict anything, therefore, it is best to assume that any difference in Festus' story is PROBABLY to paint himself in the best possible light. iii. Right off the bat he shifts the blame to Felix. He seemed all to eager to take the case and deal with it himself… but now that he is in the thick of it, he wants to blame Felix for not getting the job done. iv. Then he says that the Jews were not merely wanting Paul brought to Jerusalem for a trial – but their aim was to condemn him to death. He does not tell Herod that they were asking for this to be done as a favor to them. That might imply a seedier political relationship than he wants to be associated with before this influential King. v. But Festus refused them based on Roman customs. According to Roman custom, the plaintiff must charge the person to their face and allow them to give a defense. vi. This is why he insisted on them joining him in his court in Caesarea. vii. Festus continues… d. [Slide 6] 17 - So after they had assembled here, I did not delay, but on the next day took my seat on the judgment seat and ordered the man to be brought before me. 18 - When the accusers stood up, they were not bringing any charges against him for the evil deeds I was expecting, 19 - but they had some points of disagreement with him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, a dead man whom Paul asserted to be alive. i. Festus once again paints himself as a just ruler. He got right to judging the case immediately. Without the information about the Jews seeking this as a favor it makes it seem more like he is a kind and efficient ruler rather than someone seeking to placate some powerful and influential Jewish men. ii. Festus' perspective of the charges against Paul and Paul's defense are intriguing. iii. They are intriguing because the Jews no doubt charged Paul with some level of sedition against the Emperor for starting riots. No doubt Festus came into this thinking that this would be their primary charge against Paul. iv. But Festus doesn't mention it here. v. Most likely he has utterly dismissed these charges from his perspective simply because there was no evidence to conclude such a thing. vi. But as the trial neared the end, Festus summarizes the trial as basically a religious disagreement all concerning a certain man named Jesus who was dead and whom Paul claims to be alive. vii. Festus shows his ignorance of the area and the history of the area. No doubt Herod Agrippa II was well aware of the Jesus in question. viii. Paul has successfully, by the grace of God, made the trial about the gospel. ix. But since it is about the gospel… how is Festus, a Roman, supposed to deal with this? e. [Slide 7] 20 - And being perplexed about how to investigate such matters, I was asking whether he was willing to go to Jerusalem and there to be tried on these matters. 21 - But when Paul appealed to be held in custody for the Emperor's decision, I ordered him to be kept in custody until I send him to Caesar.” i. Festus once again avoids any hint that his actions were motivated by political favors. Luke tells us they were. So we affirm that truth with certainty. ii. This doesn't necessarily mean that Festus is lying though. At least not completely. Certainly, if he wanted to rule on a religious matter, in order to do so it would be best to go to Jerusalem and seek counsel from those who understood the religion better. iii. And that is why I think Paul actually appealed to Caesar. I think Paul understood that even if he survived the journey to get to Jerusalem, the case being about religion would certainly leave him vulnerable. iv. He could be kept in prison for a long time, and with Rome somewhat backing this decision it could lead to great persecution among all Jewish Christians. v. Festus says that Paul appealed to be held in custody for the Emperor's decision. vi. Festus doesn't have any problem doing that… vii. But you can tell that Festus is bothered by this. We won't understand fully why until the end of this passage. But what is clear is that Festus wants Agrippa to weigh in and hopefully weigh in in agreement with how he handled the situation. f. [Slide 8] 22 - Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I also would like to hear the man myself.” “Tomorrow,” he said, “you shall hear him.” i. Here we see that Herod Agrippa has an interest in the case. ii. Being a Jew himself and being part of this great Herodian dynasty which has been woven to this time of Jesus, it would be of genuine interest for Herod to meet Paul and understand this sect of Judaism which has turned all the world upside down. iii. He is in town for a few days. He might as well hear the case himself. iv. Festus readily agrees, because that is what he was shooting for anyway, and plans to have another hearing for Paul the very next day. g. [Slide 9] Summary of the Point: One of the difficult things about teaching through a book, is that oftentimes the lessons overlap significantly. For the last several sermons we've seen the same truth repackaged in several different ways. Rather than skipping over this material or blitzing through it, I see it instead as an opportunity for us to really be stretched on this teaching. If God repeats Himself, it seems to me that what He is telling us over and over again might be important. Paul is over two years into these legal proceedings. He is on his second governor. And the case just can't quite move forward. Yet he has been assured that he will go to Rome and preach the gospel. He has also been told by Jesus Himself that he will present the gospel to Jews, Gentiles and to Kings. So far, Paul has not yet shared the gospel to Kings and he is not yet in Rome. And perhaps he saw that as one prophesy to be fulfilled when he speaks to the Emperor. But the injustice of the case against him, the nature of the charges, the weakness of Felix, and now the political maneuvers of Festus to try to not look like a completely incompetent ruler to the Emperor himself, is all coming together to fulfill exactly what God's will is for the apostle Paul. He will go to Rome. He will present the gospel to Kings. Putting ourselves in the position of Paul acquires our first application from this text. We must trust the Lord. Oh how easy it would be to disbelieve. But we have similar promises the Lord has made to us – promises which have taken much longer than 2 years. Paul's story here provides the pattern. We too must trust the Lord. His promises are always true. Transition: [Slide 10(blank)] And in a familiar pairing, one we've seen several times, we must again understand that trusting the Lord is not passive. We have more to do than simply watch and wait. We have other callings we must fulfill while we wait on His promises to come to pass. II.) God providentially accomplishes His plan through political maneuvering, so we must be ready to give a defense for the hope that we have in us. (23-27) a. [Slide 11] 23 - So, on the next day when Agrippa came together with Bernice amid great pomp, and entered the hall accompanied by the commanders and the prominent men of the city, at the order of Festus, Paul was brought in. i. So, this is actually a rather big to do. ii. Herod and Bernice come in with great fanfare and celebration. The hall is filled with many military commanders and prominent people of Caesarea which would certainly be primarily gentile people. iii. In other words, this is not like the trial before Felix and the trial before Festus, in that Paul does not face a large contingent of JEWISH accusers. iv. Instead, his fate is already sealed. He is already going to Rome to Caesar's court. v. There is not really anything impeding Paul from saying whatever he wants to. He needs to be somewhat careful not to make a case of sedition against the Empire – but given the fact that Festus thinks this is about the gospel – Paul is going to be able to completely let loose with it… in front of a large number of prominent Roman officials. And of course – Herod Agrippa. vi. Paul is called to join them and the deposition is under way. b. [Slide 12] 24 - And Festus said, “King Agrippa, and all you gentlemen here present with us, you see this man about whom all the people of the Jews appealed to me, both at Jerusalem and here, loudly declaring that he ought not to live any longer. 25 - But I found that he had committed nothing worthy of death, and since he himself appealed to the Emperor, I decided to send him. i. Festus gives all in attendance a very brief overview of the previous trial and how they arrived where they are. ii. Notice that Festus does not indicate any wrong doing on his part. Paul's appeal to Caesar here is not so subtly painted as the ONLY reason Paul is still incarcerated. iii. It has absolutely nothing to do with Festus wanting to give a favor to the Jews in a religious case that he could have simply dismissed. iv. But his appeal must be honored regardless. v. But there is just one problem with that. vi. And its what has been perplexing Festus this whole time. vii. Its… paperwork. He doesn't know how to fill out his paperwork… c. [Slide 13] 26 - Yet I have nothing definite about him to write to my lord. Therefore I have brought him before you all and especially before you, King Agrippa, so that after the investigation has taken place, I may have something to write. 27 - For it seems absurd to me in sending a prisoner, not to indicate also the charges against him.” i. Festus reveals that he is going to send Paul to Caesar… but according to Roman trial custom, he must send Paul with official notes from the trial. ii. Since no verdict had been handed down, and since the charges were mostly about religious differences between Judaism and the sect of the Nazareans, there really is nothing Roman to send up the chain. iii. This is absurd, and even quite dangerous for Festus to do. iv. To send a case to the Emperor without cause could lead to ramifications against Festus. The Emperor might conclude that he is incompetent or inept. Why did he not dismiss the case? Why did he not hand it back to the Jews jurisdiction? v. And now we see a wonderful set up for what exactly will be written to the Emperor. And Herod Agrippa II is the key. vi. If Herod hears the case and agrees that the only reason Paul is being sent to the Emperor is because he appealed to him… then Festus won't be seen as an inept ruler. Paul will get the blame as a citizen who jumped the gun and appealed before it was really necessary. vii. But more on that in a couple weeks. d. [Slide 14] Summary of the Point: Again, the political situation of Festus and his reaching out to Herod for help are all part of the providential plan of God to bring about His prophesied will for Paul's life. Not only will these events hasten forward Paul's trip to Rome, but it will also allow Paul to truly give the gospel… to kings. King Herod Agrippa II, like several Herod's before him, will hear the gospel. And although we won't see it today, the application here is again drawn from putting ourselves in Paul's position. His appeal has been granted. He is going to Caesar. Does he really need to stand before this group to say anything? Could he just remain silent? Since there is some risk in him speaking and potentially provide charges he could be convicted for – isn't it just best for him to be quiet? Jesus was quiet before His accusers. Shouldn't Paul also be? Jesus was prophesied to die – Paul is prophesied to preach in Rome and before Kings. Therefore, as an act of faith and obedience, Paul must give a defense for the hope that he has in Him. We too must give a defense. We have been promised trouble. We have been promised difficulty. We have been promised an eternal kingdom. So we must be ready to give a defense for the hope we have. Conclusion: So, CBC, what have we learned today to guide our belief and our lifestyles? Basics of Faith and Practice: [Slide 15] Once again, God's will for us is a tapestry of events that He has orchestrated to accomplish His purposes. He promises us that these events are always for our good and His glory. He promises never to leave or forsake us. He promises that all we experience will lead to the perfecting and endurance of our faith. And if God's providential hand works in all things, then it also works in something like political maneuvering. Festus is trying to cover his own butt here. He is trying to make sure his goose doesn't get cooked because of his very first case in this new province he is governing going a little sideways. How is he going to go about doing that? He is going to enlist the advice and help of a favored and seasoned ruler. This should keep him from getting into trouble for sending Paul to the Emperor for virtually no reason. But through even this, the Lord providentially orchestrates the fulfillment of what He has prophesied to Paul. Next week Paul will share the gospel with a King. And after that He will be sent to Rome. Paul's struggles are often ours. We struggle to trust God when His promises look like they aren't moving forward. We struggle to correctly identify and capitalize on opportunities to share our faith with people around us. But God's control over every aspect of life motivates us to not only to continue to trust His promises but to share our faith boldly. Let's look into this a little deeper. 1.) [Slide 16] Mind Transformation: “What truth must we believe from this text?” or “What might we not naturally believe that we must believe because of what this text has said?” We must affirm that God providentially works through political maneuvering to accomplish His will. a. We all assume that political maneuvering will happen. Why? b. Well, you don't have to be a student of history for very long to understand this. c. Anyone who has had a brother, sister, or even a close cousin knows what it means to maneuver a situation to be personally advantageous to you. d. No matter what happens you expect every person to make it seem like they did the best they could under the circumstances and if there is a chance to make yourself look good or like the helpless victim – you are going to do that. e. Why? f. Well although many deny it theologically, the truth of the matter is that our entire being is naturally corrupt and sinful. g. Any parent will tell you this of their child. They know that there is no such thing as a child that has never stolen, never hit, never bit, never yelled, never disobeyed or never lied. They don't exist. h. Why? i. Because all men are wicked and depraved and it all begins at conception. j. David said, in sin my mother conceived me. He wasn't talking about her sin, but his own. He was a sinner the moment he came into existence. k. The surprising part of this text is NOT that Festus tries to present himself in the best possible light. It is NOT that he tries to get Herod on his side to leverage the Emperor's view of him. It is NOT that Festus uses every opportuinity here to try to get OUT of trouble in this particular case. l. So far, everyone acts as we would expect them to. m. What we might NOT anticipate is God using and even orchestrating these events to accomplish His will. n. But as we've pointed out several times, there are a myriad of examples in the scriptures where God overtly uses the sin or selfishness of men to do what He has planned. There are even some examples where God designs what He has planned around the sin of men. As with Pharoah – his sin was necessary so that God could judge Egypt to the extent that all nations would know He is God. o. The bottom line is that there is nothing that happens that God has not already designed and written to be. That gets sticky and tough for us to swallow when we start talking about sin and humans choosing to live sinfully and selfishly. p. We know that God doesn't tempt anyone to sin and that God doesn't sin. But we also know that men sinning is part of His plan, which He has written for His creation. q. These truths must be allowed to blend together. r. And in this text Festus' natural compulsion to protect himself politically, leads to God's promises to Paul coming to pass. s. But if we serve this God, and we trust this God, knowing that His orchestrating of all things is no real concern to us. He has allowed us to have at least a perception of freedom in our decision making and even requires us to consider His will and His ways as we do this. But somehow along with that nothing that happens will ever disrupt, alter, delay, or in any way go against His will for His creation. t. And we shouldn't want it any other way. u. We should want a God who does this. We don't want a God who has ceded control in any real way. v. God has not left anything to chance or human discretion. And because of that… His promises are always true. 2.) [Slide 17] Refutation: “What lies must we cast down” or “What do we naturally believe, or have been taught to believe, that this passage shows is false?” We must deny that God merely works around men's sinfulness to accomplish His purposes. a. Some have suggested a work around for the paradox we are experiencing and wrestling with in these last few chapters of Acts. b. That goes something like this… God allows men to freely choose to do what they will, even to sin… c. But God is stronger, faster, more knowledgeable, and able to weave and maneuver all things and bend all things back to accomplish His will and ways. d. However, this solution does not actually solve the problem. At best is presents man's decisions as a mere illusion. One that if we go too far with, God is quick to hit the undo button or arrange it in such a way that it still does what He wishes. e. At worst it contradicts clear texts of scripture that indicate that God's will for all of creation has already been written. f. And in this text we see clearly God is not working around but in and through man's sinfulness to accomplish His purposes. g. That being said, we ought to deny what is called open theism, this view where the future is undetermined and God responds to man's actions to weave the course He desires. h. We ought also deny that God has every possible decision of man mapped and figured into His divine plan – since this again is not what the scriptures teach. i. Instead, God has written the end from the beginning. There is nothing that happens that was not already written and orchestrated for His will to be accomplished. And all that happens to those who love Him and are called to His purpose is for their good. j. Even though this view does not answer all the questions – the other solutions create more problems than they do solutions. k. It is best simply to confess that God works in and through man's sinfulness to accomplish His purposes while at the same time not being the tempter. l. Confessing these truths motivates us to apply this text in two ways. Both of which are based on putting ourselves in Paul's shoes. 3.) [Slide 18] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must trust the Lord. a. How comforting it is to know that it is absolutely impossible to find ourselves outside of God's Hidden will for our lives. b. We can and often do find ourselves outside of God's moral will. When we find ourselves overcome by a sin and seek forgiveness and cleansing through confession and repentance – certainly we have stepped off God's moral will for us. c. But we NEVER deviate from His hidden will. d. When others sin against us, when political corruption and maneuvering happens before us, we can know and rest assured that God is not sitting in heaven wringing His hands, shrugging, saying, “I can't do anything buddy. Sorry! I have to let them choose what they want to do.” Nor is God in heaven saying, “Ok, they played knight to D4 so I'll move my rook to make them take it back and that will lead to…” e. No! f. Instead, God has all our days planned. All we experience is designed to lead us to what He has planned. g. That means we can trust Him. Fully. Not his ability to play a game. Not His ability to win in the end somehow… but that all our ways are known to Him. h. There is no reason to fear. He has us exactly where He wants us… ALWAYS! i. What does that mean? 4.) [Slide 19] Exhortation: “What actions should we take?” or “What is this passage specifically commanding us to do that we don't naturally do or aren't currently doing?” We must always be ready to give a defense for the hope we have in us. Even to those who can do terrible things to us. a. Every situation is a great opportunity to share the gospel. b. Before judges, juries, kings, Federal agents, no matter whether justice is being served or subverted, no matter whether we face enemies or friends – it is always a good time for us to share the hope we have. c. The bible is clear – all kinds of men are being called by God into His family. Even the most corrupt political people you can think of – they are exactly 1 measure of God's saving grace away from being His child and living holy lives. Exactly 1. d. Will you be the instrument God uses to unite them to saving faith in Jesus Christ? e. Knowing God is in control of everything always should embolden you to share your faith without pause and without fear. f. Why? g. Because God isn't playing a game of chess and God isn't helpless against man's supposed free will. Instead, God has written everything in your life already. h. So go for it. Unleash the gospel. i. And speaking of the gospel. 5.) [Slide 20] Evangelism: “What about this text points us to Jesus Christ, the gospel, and how we are restored?” The gospel is primarily about Jesus' death and resurrection. It isn't about you. a. Notice what Festus did understand. b. The gospel was about a man who was dead that Paul said is alive. c. Festus wouldn't understand or believe naturally that such a man could have been raised from the dead. d. But in one sense he does understand that the whole of what Paul preached depends on this man being alive. e. My friends the gospel is all about Jesus' death and resurrection. The fact that Jesus died for sinners and was raised according to prophesy, is the essence of the gospel. f. Everything hinges on these facts. That Jesus died and rose again. g. And I know, many well meaning preachers have advised people that when they want to share the gospel with people that they should share their testimony. And I know that really sounds like smart advice. h. But listen – the gospel is not about what YOU believed, what YOU experienced, what YOU confessed, or what YOU did. i. The gospel is about what they MUST believe, what they MUST confess and what JESUS experienced and did. j. I would caution you away from your personal testimony, especially if you do not practice it over and over again to ensure that you make it about Jesus and not about you. k. It is very easy for us to talk about ourselves. And that is why many personal testimonies of salvation end up being as much about us as they are about Jesus. l. But listen, you are merely the reward Jesus acquired for fulfilling His mission. Obedient, faithful, holy people are the reward for His suffering. m. The gospel is Jesus. His death and His resurrection and much more. But that is where it starts. n. If you have believed anything less, then you do not have the gospel. o. And if you don't have the gospel I'd like to invite you to come speak to an Elder today. We would love to tell you more. [Slide 21 (end)] Let me close in a prayer by the Puritan Philip Doddridge May God's grace visit all who suffer loss, and may your compassionate eye regard them where they live. May your providence cement, strengthen, and adorn them. For unless the Lord builds the city, they labor in vain who build it. May the candle of the Lord shine on them, and your Spirit enlighten and renew their souls. May peace and prosperity, friendship and faith always flourish in this neighborhood and city. Fill my neighbors' troubles with compassion, Lord, so they may exchange joy for mourning, and beauty for ashes. So that those who lament may rejoice with you, and that at length you may share with them the security and joy of the city of God, the heavenly Jerusalem, where no flames will be felt except those of love. In the meantime, may our eyes be lifted up to heaven, in the humble hope and fervent prayer for those around us, that true Christian faith would spread throughout the entire world. And may that faith prevail in our own hearts, that we may faithfully practice and grow in you. So will we understand your lovingkindness, Lord, as we live our daily lives. And though there may be mysteries of providence we cannot explain, we will believe that your paths are mercy and truth, and find the truest and securest peace in our passage to everlasting joy. In Jesus name we pray this, Amen. Benediction: May the Lord who does not forsake those who earnestly seek His face, Who provides a safe retreat for weary souls in troubled times. Show you to be a stronghold for the oppressed, A stronghold in time of trouble. Until we meet again, go in peace.

This is part 10 of the Read the Bible For Yourself. We've taken our time working through the Old Testament, section by section. Before we tackle the New Testament and look at the Gospels, we need to talk about the time between the Old and New Testaments. In the gap of roughly four hundred years, massive political and cultural changes occurred. Nowhere in the Old Testament do we see anything about the Romans, Pharisees, Sadducees, or the Sanhedrin. In today's episode I'll catch you up on what happened after the OT and before the NT so you can better understand the world in which Jesus functioned. Listen to this episode on Spotify or Apple Podcasts https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3humYIVYho&list=PLN9jFDsS3QV2TrdUEDtAipF3jy4qYspM_&index=10 —— Links —— See other episodes in Read the Bible For Yourself Other classes are available here, including How We Got the Bible, which explores the manuscript transmission and translation of the Bible Get the transcript of this episode Support Restitutio by donating here Join our Restitutio Facebook Group and follow Sean Finnegan on Twitter @RestitutioSF Leave a voice message via SpeakPipe with questions or comments and we may play them out on the air Intro music: Good Vibes by MBB Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported (CC BY-SA 3.0) Free Download / Stream: Music promoted by Audio Library. Who is Sean Finnegan?  Read his bio here —— Notes —— Recent History Persians: Cyrus the Great Greeks: Alexander the Great, Antiochus Epiphanes Hellenization (2 Maccabees 4.7, 10-15; 1 Maccabees 1.41-53) Maccabean Revolution: Mattathias, Judah the Maccabee, Jonathan Apphus, Simon Thassi, John Hyrcanus, Aristobulus I, Alexander Jannaeus, Salome Alexandra, Hyrcanus II, Aristobulus II Romans: Pompey the Great annexed Judea in 63bc Herodian Dynasty: Herod the Great and his descendants Geographical and Political Setting Roman Empire: Augustus (27bc-ad14), Tiberius (14-37), Caligula (37-41), Claudius (41-54), Nero (54-68) Provinces: every region outside of Italy Galilee: Herod the Great (37-4bc), Herod Antipas (4bc-ad39), Herod Agrippa I (37-44) Judea: Herod the Great (37-4bc), Herod Archelaus (4bc-ad6), Coponius (6-9), Marcus Ambivulus (9-12), Annius Rufus (12-15), Valerius Gratus (15-26), Pontius Pilate (26-36), Marcellus (36-37), Marullus (37-41), Herod Agrippa I (41-44) Samaria: under Judean jurisdiction; Samaritans and Jews conflicted with each other Jewish Groups Sadducees controlled the temple partners with Roman governors wealthy aristocrats chief priests were the leaders only accepted the Torah as scripture didn't believe in resurrection or angels Pharisees focused on obedience to Torah accepted the law (Torah), prophets (Nevi'im), and writings (Kethuvim) oral tradition & fence laws not in power at the time of Jesus, except those in the Sanhedrin Sanhedrin Romans established 5 councils over 5 districts most important council was in Jerusalem had temple police at their disposal to arrest people could meet out punishments except capital punishment, which was reserved for the Roman governor Scribes every group had scribes even Paul used scribes to write his letters (Tertius in Rom 16.22) writing was a skill copy scripture to preserve it called lawyers or experts in the law Revolutionaries wanted to overthrow Roman occupation Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews23 “But of the fourth sect of Jewish philosophy, Judas the Galilean was the author. These men agree in all other things with the Pharisaic notions; but they have an inviolable attachment to liberty; and say that God is to be their only Ruler and Lord. They also do not value dying any kind of death, nor indeed do they heed the deaths of their relations and friends, nor can any such fear make them call any man Lord” John's Renewal Movement called people to repent baptized them in the Jordan River possible connection with the Essenes Important Issues Temple Taxes Torah Unrest Review When the Greeks conquered the world, they made cities adopt their customs, culture, language, and religion. When Antiochus Epiphanes forcibly Hellenized Judah, it resulted in the Maccabean Revolution under Mattathias and his sons. After they won their independence, the Hasmonean Dynasty ruled up until 63bc when Pompey annexed Judea into the Roman Empire. Herod the Great and his descendants ruled over the region for many years, though in Judea the Romans directly ruled through governors. During Jesus' ministry Herod Antipas ruled in Galilee and Pontius Pilate governed Judea and Samaria. Sadducees partnered with the Roman government and controlled the temple. The Pharisees focused on obedience to Torah, according to the traditions of the elders. The Sanhedrin was a council in Jerusalem made of Sadducees and Pharisees that controlled a police force and ruled on legal issues. Scribes copied scripture and had expert knowledge of the Law of Moses. Jesus lived in a time of fragile peace when Roman provocations threatened to light the match of Jewish revolution at any moment.

Lesson 10 Notes Download Recent History Persians: Cyrus the Great Greeks: Alexander the Great, Antiochus Epiphanes Hellenization (2 Maccabees 4.7, 10-15; 1 Maccabees 1.41-53) Maccabean Revolution: Mattathias, Judah the Maccabee, Jonathan Apphus, Simon Thassi, John Hyrcanus, Aristobulus I, Alexander Jannaeus, Salome Alexandra, Hyrcanus II, Aristobulus II Romans: Pompey the Great annexed Judea in 63bc Herodian Dynasty: Herod the Great and his descendants Geographical and Political Setting Roman Empire: Augustus (27bc-ad14), Tiberius (14-37), Caligula (37-41), Claudius (41-54), Nero (54-68) Provinces: every region outside of Italy Galilee: Herod the Great (37-4bc), Herod Antipas (4bc-ad39), Herod Agrippa I (37-44) Judea: Herod the Great (37-4bc), Herod Archelaus (4bc-ad6), Coponius (6-9), Marcus Ambivulus (9-12), Annius Rufus (12-15), Valerius Gratus (15-26), Pontius Pilate (26-36), Marcellus (36-37), Marullus (37-41), Herod Agrippa I (41-44) Samaria: under Judean jurisdiction; Samaritans and Jews conflicted with each other Jewish Groups Sadducees controlled the temple partners with Roman governors wealthy aristocrats chief priests were the leaders only accepted the Torah as scripture didn't believe in resurrection or angels Pharisees focused on obedience to Torah accepted the law (Torah), prophets (Nevi'im), and writings (Kethuvim) oral tradition & fence laws not in power at the time of Jesus, except those in the Sanhedrin Sanhedrin Romans established 5 councils over 5 districts most important council was in Jerusalem had temple police at their disposal to arrest people could meet out punishments except capital punishment, which was reserved for the Roman governor Scribes every group had scribes even Paul used scribes to write his letters (Tertius in Rom 16.22) writing was a skill copy scripture to preserve it called lawyers or experts in the law Revolutionaries wanted to overthrow Roman occupation Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews23 “But of the fourth sect of Jewish philosophy, Judas the Galilean was the author. These men agree in all other things with the Pharisaic notions; but they have an inviolable attachment to liberty; and say that God is to be their only Ruler and Lord. They also do not value dying any kind of death, nor indeed do they heed the deaths of their relations and friends, nor can any such fear make them call any man Lord” John's Renewal Movement called people to repent baptized them in the Jordan River possible connection with the Essenes Important Issues Temple Taxes Torah Unrest Review When the Greeks conquered the world, they made cities adopt their customs, culture, language, and religion. When Antiochus Epiphanes forcibly Hellenized Judah, it resulted in the Maccabean Revolution under Mattathias and his sons. After they won their independence, the Hasmonean Dynasty ruled up until 63bc when Pompey annexed Judea into the Roman Empire. Herod the Great and his descendants ruled over the region for many years, though in Judea the Romans directly ruled through governors. During Jesus’ ministry Herod Antipas ruled in Galilee and Pontius Pilate governed Judea and Samaria. Sadducees partnered with the Roman government and controlled the temple. The Pharisees focused on obedience to Torah, according to the traditions of the elders. The Sanhedrin was a council in Jerusalem made of Sadducees and Pharisees that controlled a police force and ruled on legal issues. Scribes copied scripture and had expert knowledge of the Law of Moses. Jesus lived in a time of fragile peace when Roman provocations threatened to light the match of Jewish revolution at any moment. The post 10: Key Background for Reading the New Testament first appeared on Living Hope.

Lesson 10 Notes Download Recent History Persians: Cyrus the Great Greeks: Alexander the Great, Antiochus Epiphanes Hellenization (2 Maccabees 4.7, 10-15; 1 Maccabees 1.41-53) Maccabean Revolution: Mattathias, Judah the Maccabee, Jonathan Apphus, Simon Thassi, John Hyrcanus, Aristobulus I, Alexander Jannaeus, Salome Alexandra, Hyrcanus II, Aristobulus II Romans: Pompey the Great annexed Judea in 63bc Herodian Dynasty: Herod the Great and his descendants Geographical and Political Setting Roman Empire: Augustus (27bc-ad14), Tiberius (14-37), Caligula (37-41), Claudius (41-54), Nero (54-68) Provinces: every region outside of Italy Galilee: Herod the Great (37-4bc), Herod Antipas (4bc-ad39), Herod Agrippa I (37-44) Judea: Herod the Great (37-4bc), Herod Archelaus (4bc-ad6), Coponius (6-9), Marcus Ambivulus (9-12), Annius Rufus (12-15), Valerius Gratus (15-26), Pontius Pilate (26-36), Marcellus (36-37), Marullus (37-41), Herod Agrippa I (41-44) Samaria: under Judean jurisdiction; Samaritans and Jews conflicted with each other Jewish Groups Sadducees controlled the temple partners with Roman governors wealthy aristocrats chief priests were the leaders only accepted the Torah as scripture didn't believe in resurrection or angels Pharisees focused on obedience to Torah accepted the law (Torah), prophets (Nevi'im), and writings (Kethuvim) oral tradition & fence laws not in power at the time of Jesus, except those in the Sanhedrin Sanhedrin Romans established 5 councils over 5 districts most important council was in Jerusalem had temple police at their disposal to arrest people could meet out punishments except capital punishment, which was reserved for the Roman governor Scribes every group had scribes even Paul used scribes to write his letters (Tertius in Rom 16.22) writing was a skill copy scripture to preserve it called lawyers or experts in the law Revolutionaries wanted to overthrow Roman occupation Josephus, Antiquities of the Jews23 “But of the fourth sect of Jewish philosophy, Judas the Galilean was the author. These men agree in all other things with the Pharisaic notions; but they have an inviolable attachment to liberty; and say that God is to be their only Ruler and Lord. They also do not value dying any kind of death, nor indeed do they heed the deaths of their relations and friends, nor can any such fear make them call any man Lord” John's Renewal Movement called people to repent baptized them in the Jordan River possible connection with the Essenes Important Issues Temple Taxes Torah Unrest Review When the Greeks conquered the world, they made cities adopt their customs, culture, language, and religion. When Antiochus Epiphanes forcibly Hellenized Judah, it resulted in the Maccabean Revolution under Mattathias and his sons. After they won their independence, the Hasmonean Dynasty ruled up until 63bc when Pompey annexed Judea into the Roman Empire. Herod the Great and his descendants ruled over the region for many years, though in Judea the Romans directly ruled through governors. During Jesus’ ministry Herod Antipas ruled in Galilee and Pontius Pilate governed Judea and Samaria. Sadducees partnered with the Roman government and controlled the temple. The Pharisees focused on obedience to Torah, according to the traditions of the elders. The Sanhedrin was a council in Jerusalem made of Sadducees and Pharisees that controlled a police force and ruled on legal issues. Scribes copied scripture and had expert knowledge of the Law of Moses. Jesus lived in a time of fragile peace when Roman provocations threatened to light the match of Jewish revolution at any moment. The post 10: Key Background for Reading the New Testament first appeared on Living Hope.

The name Herod is mentioned nearly 50 times in the New Testament, but Scripture is not speaking of just one man.There are five different rulers named Herod referred to in Scripture: Herod the Great, his sons Herod Archelaus and Herod Antipas, and his grandsons Herod Agrippa I and Herod Agrippa II. (Herod Philip would make six, though he is mentioned simply as Phillip).On this episode, we explore the five different Herods mentioned in the New Testament, including their historical context, where they show up in Scripture, and how they are important to understanding New Testament times. For more on this topic, visit ReasonableTheology.org/HerodIf you enjoy the Reasonable Theology Podcast go to ReasonableTheology.org/Subscribe and get the weekly email, which includes the latest article or podcast episode, a helpful theological definition, a painting depicting a scene from Scripture or church history, a musical selection to enrich your day, and the best book deal I've found that week to build your library.Support the showGET THE NEWSLETTEREach edition of the Reasonable Theology newsletter contains my latest article or podcast episode PLUS: A Theological Word or Phrase Explained Quickly and Clearly A Painting Depicting a Scene from Scripture or Church History Audio of a Hymn or other Musical Selection to Enjoy A Recommended Book or Resource to Expand Your Library SUBSCRIBE HERE

Jennifer and I improvise each week, asking who it is on the flipside wants to chat with us. Luana Anders is our moderator on the flipside, and whoever wants to come through is up to her. Her mentioning this woman "Magda" in terms of a book I'm writing, an interview I did with a woman who was able to access this Magda, who claimed to be a Praetor's wife in the cabinet of Herod in the time of Jesus was pretty unusual.  A note here to say that I've never heard of the word Praetor that I'm aware of, I don't know what it means, but as I was typing this description the word came to mind "Praetor's wife" - which means according to Wikipedia: Praetor ( Classical Latin: was the title granted by the government of Ancient Rome to a man acting in one of two official capacities: (i) the commander of an army, and (ii) as an elected magistratus (magistrate), assigned to discharge various duties." I've heard of the Praetorian guard, but I assumed they only guarded Caesar, and as such the word Praetor is completely unknown to me. But it popped into my head. Magda Archelaus - I don't know if she was married to Herod, or just someone in his cabinet - but in the research I'd done on the name, I looked up Herod Archelaus. (Famed during the era).  The interview I did with her was mind bending, as she claimed to be privy to events that led to the Crucifixion as well as the recovery of the body of Jesus, and those who attended to him - trying to heal him with aloe and myrrh (also reported in the Bible.) Luana suggests I dig deeper.  (I had stopped digging after including the article in this book I've written about accounts of Jesus from the flipside perspective.)  I shall endeavor to do some more digging. Robin Williams came in to talk about process - and indeed, mentioned this woman who reached out to me who had a conversation with him after our mentioning him recently.  She got this idea of a "granny award" or the role of granny - which I at first assumed meant Mrs. Doubtfire, but according to this conversation, may be the one where he played the role of a Granny onstage for Andy Kaufman in the 1970's.  Pretty funny stuff. As always, enjoy the podcast as an example of how simple it is to reach out to one's loved ones.  Enjoy. 

Law of Study # 4 - Historical Background The interpreter must have some awareness of the life and society of the times in which the Scripture was written. The spiritual principle will be timeless but often can't be properly appreciated without some knowledge of the background. If the interpreter can have in his mind what the writer had in his mind when he wrote – without adding any excess baggage from the interpreter's own culture or society – then the true thought of the Scripture can be captured resulting in an accurate interpretation. This is where archeological finds, customs, and extra-biblical writings (Josephus) can inform us of what life was like in the life and times of the biblical authors and audience. This is one of my favorite things to learn. Historical Background Sources: Maps Cultural Manners and Customs Extra-biblical writings Bible Dictionaries During our study of the Acts of Jesus, there were a few passages that, in my studies, have been greatly impacted by the study of Historical Background. One of them was the passage of the Temple Tax. You've heard me mention this one several times but I am still amazed at how this understanding changed my interpretation. There were a couple of other ones as well. Jesus curses the fig tree Understanding the seasons, Jesus fully knew that the tree should not bear figs yet. But with the tree having leaves, it should have had the berries or knops on it. Because it did not have the berries, Jesus knew that something was wrong with the tree internally. Another passage, one that I could say fits this law perfectly is found in Luke 19. If you remember, this parable is very much like the parable of the talents. One servant is given five talents, another three talents, and another one talent, according to their ability. Remember the first two doubled their talents but the last one hid his talent in the ground. This parable of the minas is almost the same as the parable of the talents. Do you remember what was different about this parable? Where it was told - Jericho As Jesus is speaking, there stands the palace of Herod Archelaus. According to the writings of Josephus, after the death of Herod the Great, the land was divided between his four sons. Archelaus went to Rome to speak with Caesar about making him king. The Jews hated Archelaus and sent a delegation to plead with Caesar to not make him their king. This would have been common knowledge for those hearing Jesus speak. Before this study, had any of you heard of Archelaus' palace? Or how he came into power? I hadn't But learning this information unlocks the parable Jesus is giving. This information also allows us to separate the parables of the Minas and Talents. This illuminates the idea that Jesus would adapt His parables based upon His surroundings and the people listening to Him. So how does that help us when we interpret? It shows us we cannot assign meaning across the board without context. This shows the unity of the laws of the study IMPORTANT NOTE - Historical Background must not become the focus of your interpretation. Historical background provides information, but the text is the most important thing! We must avoid “falling in love” with historical background.

Jesus of Nazareth is born in the Roman-occupied land of Judea around 6 or 4 BC, an event that will inspire the holiday of Christmas. The world of the Nativity is a tumultuous scene of competing empires, diverse cultures, and ambitious leaders. How did Judea, homeland of Jesus and the Jewish people, become a province of the Roman Empire, and how did the infamous King Herod ascend the throne? Far from the capital of Rome, the wondrous birth of a child in rural Judea would one decide the fate of a mighty empire. A story from the Roman world (c. 67 BC - 4 BC), featuring: Jesus of Nazareth, Mary, Joseph, Herod the Great, Hyrcanus II, Aristobulus II, Antipater the Idumean, Pompey the Great, Mark Antony, Octavian/Augustus, Antigonus II, Herod Archelaus, Herod Antipas For more on Judea's earlier history, including the life of Judas Maccabeus and the beginnings of the Hasmonean dynasty, check out our story “The Wars of the Maccabees”! --- CREDITS: Music by Scott Buckley Episode Thumbnail Image: Mosaic depicting the Nativity of Christ (1296-1300 AD, Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere, Rome, by Pietro Cavallini) WDS Logo Image: Kylix with Apollo playing the lyre and pouring a libation (c. 470 BC, Delphi Archeological Museum) --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

The last days of Herod are marked with rebellion. Even after his death, Herod Archelaus puts down a rebellion with three thousand causalities around the temple mount. Archelaus goes to Rome to confirm his appointment as king, and three other rebellions break out leading to another two thousand casualties and crucifixions alongside the Judean roadways as Rome restores order. When it was time for Joseph and Mary to return from Egypt, their fear of Herod Archelaus was justified. Thus, they settled in Nazareth. Matthew 2:22-23 Luke 2:39-40 Isaiah 53:1-3 www.messagetokings.com

The parable of the minas (or pounds) is told just as Jesus is about to arrive in Jerusalem as king. This is a complex parable that even includes historical data about Herod Archelaus. Join us as we explore the many aspects of this parable. https://smile.amazon.com/Parables-Jewish-Tradition-Christian-Interpretation/dp/0801048206/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2QUGQ5LMFOEIC&dchild=1&keywords=brad+young+parables&qid=1606869713&sprefix=brad+youn%2Caps%2C211&sr=8-1 https://www.jerusalemperspective.com/ http://read.gov/aesop/112.html

The parable of the minas (or pounds) is told just as Jesus is about to arrive in Jerusalem as king. This is a complex parable that even includes historical data about Herod Archelaus. Join us as we explore the many aspects of this parable. Support Fig Tree Ministries: https://donorbox.org/support-figtree-ministries www.figtreeteaching.com

Herod Wielki jest chyba najbardziej znany z opisanego w Biblii rozkazu zabicia wszystkich dzieci w okolicach Betlejem. W Ewangelii Mateusza 2:16 czytamy, że wyda rozkaz, aby pozabijać wszystkie dzieci w Betlejem oraz w całej okolicy, od dwóch lat i młodsze. Powodem tej decyzji był fakt, że mędrcy ze wschodu powiedzieli mu, że tam urodził się król. Czy ten fragment jest prawdziwy? Nie mamy potwierdzenia w źródłach świeckich, ale dzisiaj będę mówić o tym jak Herod traktował swoich własnych synów.Zanim jednak przejdziemy do dzieci Heroda Wielkiego. Warto wspomnieć o jego ojcu oraz starszym bracie. To co ich spotkało tłumaczy dlaczego później Herod był tak podejrzliwy oraz zabijał tych, którzy jak mu się wydawało spiskowali przeciwko niemu. Ojcem Heroda był Antypater, a starszym bratem Fazael. W 44 p.n.e. zabito Juliusza Cezara. Wybuchła wojna domowa. Korzytając z niej wrogowie Antypatra Idumejczyka wysyłali wielu skrytobójców. W końcu przekupili podczaszego, który otruł ojca Heroda. Gdy zabójcy Cezara zginęli, czyli gdy zakończyła się jedna wojna domowa, prawie doszło do drugiej pomiędzy zwycięzcami Markiem Antoniuszem oraz Oktawianem. Korzystając z tego konfliktu na wschód najechali Partowie. Ich wsparcie dostał potomek dynastii Machabejskiej - Matatiasz Antygon. Został on ostatnim z dynastii machabejskiej królem Judei. Zdobywając tą władzę podstępnie zabił starszego brata Heroda, czyli Fazaela. Herod uciekł do Egiptu. Tam spotkał się z Kleopatrą, a stamtąd popłynął do Rzymu.W międzyczasie Marek Antoniusz i Oktawian się pogodzili. Podzielili też sfery wpływów. Cały wschód (granica była we współczesnej Albanii) dostał się Markowi Antoniuszowi. Do wschodu zaliczała się także Judea. A co z Herodem? Niespodziewanie został on ustanowiony królem Judei przez obu konsulów oraz rzymski senat. Był rok 40 p.n.e., Herod poszedł złożyć ofiarę w świątyni Jowisza, co chyba wyraźnie dowodzi jak głęboko wierzył w Boga Biblii. Stamtąd Herod wrócił do Judei. Około trzech lat zajęło mu jej zdobywanie, tak więc jego królowanie liczy się gdzieś od roku 37 p.n.e. Ostatniego z królów machabejskich, czyli Matatiasza Antygona odesłał do Marka Antoniusza do Antiochii, gdzie ten król został zabity. Gdy to wszystko się działo, Herod miał już jedną żonę, ale był już też zaręczony z miłością swojego życia czyli Mariamme.Herod miał dwie żony o imieniu Mariamme. Mariamme jest to wersja imienia Miriam, imienia od którego pochodzi polskie imię Maria. W każdym bądź razie Herod Wielki ożenił się z dwoma kobietami o tym imieniu. Jednak jego pierwszą żoną była Doris. Herod miał z nią syna, który dostał imię po dziadku - Antypater. Jednak później Herod ożenił się z Marianną I, która pochodziła z rodu Hasmoneuszy. Jak może pamiętacie rodzina Heroda doszła do władzy, bo Hasmoneusze walczyli między sobą o władzę. Mariamme I była wnuczką po mieczu z Arystobula II, a po kądzieli Jana Hirkana II. Tak więc miała krew obu walczących niegdyś rodów. Żeniąc się z nią Herod wchodził do królewskiego rodu. Czy jednak musiał się rozwodzić ze swoją pierwszą żoną Doris?W tamtych czasach wielożeństwo było czymś normalnym. Herod chciał chyba jednak pokazać, że zrywa pogańskie małżeństwo. Odprawił swoją nie żydowską żonę i jej dziecko. Być może chciał nawiązać do tego co jest napisane w Księdze Nehemiasza. Żydzi wtedy żenili się z kobietami z okolicznych ludów i musieli potem odprawić te żony wraz z dziećmi. Teraz to zrobił Herod. Skazał na wygnanie Doris i jej syna Antypatra. Księżniczka hasmonejska Mariamme urodziła mu kilkoro dzieci, między innymi dwóch synów Aleksandra i Arystobula. Później jednak Herod stał się podejrzliwy wobec rodu Hasmoneuszy.Był rok 37 p.n.e. Herod zdobył po trzech latach Jerozolimę z pomocą Rzymian. Ostatniego króla z dynastii Hasmoneuszy odesłał do Marka Antoniusza, gdzie wykonano wyrok śmierci. Antoniusz udał się do Aleksandrii do Kleopatry. Tam zostały mu przedstawione portrety młodego rodzeństwa - młodziutkiej żony Heroda czyli Mariamme oraz jej brata Arystobula. Marek Antoniusz i Kleopatra okazywali zainteresowanie młodemu potomkowi rodu Hasmoneuszy. Jak już wspomniałem Herod właśnie stracił ojca, który został otruty. Potem starszego brata, a niedawno także młodszego brata, który także wpadł w zasadzkę. Teraz Kleopatra, która miała chęć rządzić wschodem zaczynała interesować się młodziutkim szwagrem Heroda. Herod przestał ufać Hasmoneuszom.Najpierw zabił swojego szwagra, brata Mariamme I. Herod kazał go czyli Arystobula III utopić w Jerychu. Był on arcykapłanem i ulubieńcem ludu. Herod obawiał się pewnie, że jak poprzedni arcykapłani z tego rodu zostanie też królem. Dlatego utopił swojego szwagra Arystobula III. Później kazał też zabić swoją żonę - księżniczkę Mariamme. A na sam koniec także jej synów Aleksandra i Arystobula. Wtedy do łask wrócił syn z pierwszego małżeństwa. Oficjalnym następcą Heroda Wielkiego ogłoszono Antypatra, syna Doris. Jednak Herod zabił już dwóch synów.Herod był tak podejrzliwy, że zaczął podejrzewać także Antypatra. Kazał go zabić 5 dni przed swoją własną śmiercią. W ten sposób Herod sam zabił swoich trzech najstarszych synów. Gdyby żył dłużej być może na liście znaleźliby się kolejni synowie, a może nawet wnukowie. Na szczęście dla nich Herod Wielki umarł. Nie wiadomo dokładnie kiedy, ale żył jeszcze gdy urodził się Jezus. Jest wspomniany w Ewangelii Mateusza, gdy każe zabić dzieci w okolicy Betlejem. Wspomina go też Łukasz w Łukasza 1:5, gdzie czytamy o kapłanie Zachariaszu, który żył w czasach króla Heroda.Czwartym synem Heroda Wielkiego był jego syn, który dostał imię po ojcu. Aby go więc odróżnić dodano mu przydomki. Jest znany jako Herod bez ziemi, bo nic nie dostał po swoim ojcu. Znany jest też jako Herod Filip, pierwszy mąż Herodiady i ojciec Salome. Ten Herod Filip był synem Mariamme II. Ożenił się z córką swojego brata Arystobula, czyli wnuczką Heroda Wielkiego. Dostała imię po dziadku - Herodiada. Był to rzymski zwyczaj, np. dzieci Juliusza dostawały imię ojca: chłopcy Juliusz, a dziewczynki Julia. Wielu synów i wnuków Heroda dostało imię Herod, a jego wnuczka imię Herodiada. Czy była podobna do dziadka?Herod Wielki zabił trzech najstarszych synów. Herodiada była córką trzeciego z nich czyli Arystobula. Wyszła za mąż za czwartego, czyli najstarszego z żyjących. Być może myślała, że jej mąż zostanie następcą Heroda Wielkiego. Jak jednak wiemy przeszedł on do historii jako Herod bez ziemi. Biblia używa jego drugiego imienia Filip. W Ewangelii Mateusza 14:3,4 czytamy, że Herodiada go opuściła i wyszła za mąż za jego brata Heroda Antypasa. Biblia opisuje, że ten ślub był krytykowany przez Jana Chrzciciela. Jak pewnie wiecie Mateusz w Ewangelii opisuje jak córka Herodiady i Heroda bez ziemi, ta córka miała na imię Salome, tańczyła przed Herodem Antypasem. Obiecał on jej cokolwiek zechce, a ona za namową matki poprosiła o głowę Jana Chrzciciela.Herod bez ziemi był 4 synem Heroda Wielkiego, a Herod Antypas 6. Pominęliśmy piątego czyli Heroda Archelausa. Został on wymieniony w Biblii tylko raz, bo rządził krótko. Mateusz wymienia go jako powód dla którego po powrocie z Egiptu Józef i Maria nie zamieszkali w Betlejem, ale udali się do Nazaretu w Galilei. W Mateusza 2:22 czytamy: “gdy usłyszał, że Archelaus króluje w Judei po ojcu swoim, Herodzie, bał się tam iść”. Herod Archelaus został następcą ojca i był tak samo jak on okrutny dlatego Oktawian August pozbawił go władzy i skazał na banicję. Królem został Herod Antypas, o którym mówiłem przed chwilą.Herod, który rządził przez większą część życia Jezusa, a także w okresie opisanym w Dziejach Apostolskich był właśnie Herod Antypas. Jego brat czyli Herod Archelaus stracił władzę, a Rzymianie ustanowili nad Judeą swój nadzór w postaci namiestnika. Herod Antypas dalej jednak był władcą Galilei. To właśnie on ożenił się z Herodiadą, żoną swojego brata. A gdy go za to krytykował Jan Chrzciciel kazał go uwięzić, a potem zabić. Gdy przed Piłata, czyli rzymskiego namiestnika przyprowadzono Jezusa, nie za bardzo chciał go sądzić. Ucieszył się więc, gdy się dowiedział, że Jezus jest z Galilei i odesłał go do Heroda Antypasa. W Łukasza 23:7 czytamy, że gdy Piłat dowiedział się “że jest poddanym Heroda, odesłał go do Heroda, który w tych dniach był właśnie w Jerozolimie”.W ten sposób omówiliśmy 6 synów Heroda Wielkiego. Pierwszy trzech kazał zabić sam ojciec. Czwarty zwany Herodem bez ziemi lub Herodem Filipem jest znany tylko jako pierwszy mąż Herodiady i ojciec Salome. Piąty to Herod Archelaus, który panował gdy rodzice Jezusa wrócili z Egiptu, ale ponieważ był tak okrutny jak jego ojciec Oktawian August skazał go na wygnanie. Najważniejszy jest więc szósty syn, czyli Herod Antypas, o którym Biblia wspomina wielokrotnie. Wnukami Heroda Wielkiego zajmę się w następnym odcinku.Hiszpańskie Historie:https://www.spreaker.com/show/hiszpanskiHistoria wg Dzieci (historia Polski dla Dzieci):https://historiawgdzieci.pl/podkast/listaTego dnia (historyczne rocznice na każdy dzień):https://historiawgdzieci.pl/tego-dnia/lista

Jesus shared the parable of the master and the ten servants specifically because he was near Jerusalem and the people thought that the kingdom of God was going to appear at once. Jesus draws a parallel between the master who was appointed as king a reference to Herod Archelaus and the judgment when the king returns. More importantly, he tells the people that to be proven to be trustworthy servants they had to put the masters resources to work until he returned. Jesus was telling the people then and all of us now that our focus should not be on when and how the master will return but rather on maximizing the return on kingdom investments.

THE HERODIANSIntroductionØ Related Scriptures:• Herod the Great (73 B.C. – 4 B.C.) - Matthew 2:16-17• Herod Archelaus (23 B.C. – 18 A.D.) – Matthew 2:22• Herod Antipas (Before 20 B.C. – 39 A.D.) – Mark 6:17-29; Matthew 14:1-12• Herod Philip (27 B.C. – 34 A.D.) – Luke 3:1• Herod Agrippa I (12 B.C. – 44 A.D.) – Acts 12:21-23• Herod Agrippa II (27 A.D. – 100 A.D.) – Acts 26:28-29• The name Herod is mentioned nearly 50 times in the New Testament, but Scripture is not speaking of just one man.• Like the Pharisees and Sadducees, the Herodian family receives negative treatment in the New Testament.• They submitted to Herod, and to Rome, for political convenience.Herod the Great• He was ruler of Judea despite being Idumean descent (from Edom). The fact that he was a non-Jew, along with his notably cruel manner of ruling, made him largely distrusted and resented by the Jewish people.• Responsible for the slaughter of the innocents (Matthew 2:16-17).• Ironically, he was never called “the Great” in antiquity. This became a later designation because of his extensive building campaigns and strong foreign policy.• His accomplishments were funded through burdensome taxes which contributed greatly to the Jews disliking of tax collectors.Tumultuous Times• In 44, Caesar is assassinated, and the following year, the second triumvirate of Antony, Octavian (later called Augustus), and Lepidus ascends.• In 32, Antony and Octavian separate, and in 31, at the Battle of Actium, Octavian conquers his rival. Herod, who had originally sided with Antony, accompanies Octavian from Egypt, and is restored to governmental good graces.His Building Projects• Herod sponsored the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple and the patriarchs’ tomb in Hebron.• He built Caesarea Maritima; Sebaste (ancient Samaria); and fortresses, including Masada, Machaerus, and the Herodium.• Rabbinic sources suggest that the Pharisees were interested in extending the sanctity of the Temple to the home.His Family• Herod married ten times, participated in several divorces, and executed many sons, a wife, numerous in-laws, and even more political rivals.• In 38, after a five-year engagement, Herod marries the Hasmonean princess Mariamme.• Eventually, Herod will kill his sons by Mariamme, his mother-in-law, and Mariamme herself.His Death• Herod died in agony from renal failure? syphilis? and was buried, ancient sources suggest, in Herodium, near Bethlehem. His tomb has not yet been discovered.• Herod the Great, having executed most of his sons, divides his kingdom among Philip, Antipas, and Archelaus.Herod Archelaus• As an ethnarch (a non-King in charge of an ethnic group in a region) Archelaus was in charge of Judea, Samaria, and Idumea. However, Archelaus did not remain in power for long. He only held his post from 4 B.C. until being deposed in A.D.6, when the Jews requested that Caesar Augustus replace him.• Even so, Archelaus did influence the history of the New Testament. It was fear about his reign in Judea that prompted Joseph, Mary, and Jesus to live in Galilee rather than in Judea (Matthew 2:22).Herod Antipas• Herod Antipas became the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea from 4 B.C. to A.D. 39, meaning he was one of four appointed regional rulers. He is seen in the New Testament to have been rebuked by John the Baptist for taking the wife of his half-brother, Philip (Mark 6:17-20).• Antipas had John beheaded to fulfill an oath sworn to his daughter (Mark 6:20-29) and later worries that Jesus is John the Baptist back from the dead (Matthew 14:1-12).Herod Agrippa I• Agrippa sought to maintain good standing with the Jewish people, ultimately gaining the respect of both the Sadducees and Pharisees. Agrippa attempted to crack down on messianic movements (Acts 12:1-2).• In 44, he dies suddenly in Caesarea (Acts 12:22-23).Herod Agrippa II• Agrippa II was rumored to have had an incestuous relationship with his sister Berenice.• According to Acts 25:13–26:32, at Festus’s request, Agrippa II and Berenice hear Paul at Caesarea. He found no fault in Paul worthy of imprisonment and remarked that he could have been let go if Paul had not appealed to make his case before Caesar.The Herodians• Influential persons who were partisans of the Herodian dynasty. They are mentioned three times in the NT (Mark 3:6; Matt. 22:16).• They would be theologically and politically close to the Sadducees.

After over a year, this is the last of the deep dives into ancient Egyptian history. In this episode, I cover how Rome instituted their culture in Egypt including their military, path to citizenship, tax and economic policies, and the caste system. I also walk through how these impacted the exiled Joseph, Mary, and Jesus. Finally, I cover the transition from Herod the Great to his son and successor Herod Archelaus, and how this allows us to timestamp when the young Jesus' family returned from Egypt. After listening, let me know what you think.

The family of Herod the Great weaved in and out of the story of the early church, including the lives of Jesus and Paul. But […]

Historical Jesus 3: Rulers in Christ’s World Life was very different in the world of Jesus, especially politics.  In this lecture you will learn about the three main leaders that shaped Jesus’ time: Herod the Great, Herod Antipas, and Pontius Pilate.  Drawing on the Jewish historian, Josephus, you will discover the cut-throat way that Roman Read more about Podcast 27: Rulers in Christ’s World (Historical Jesus 3)[…]

Historical Jesus 3: Rulers in Christ’s World Life was very different in the world of Jesus, especially politics.  In this lecture you will learn about the three main leaders that shaped Jesus’ time: Herod the Great, Herod Antipas, and Pontius Pilate.  Drawing on the Jewish historian, Josephus, you will discover the cut-throat way that Roman Read more about Podcast 27: Rulers in Christ’s World (Historical Jesus 3)[…]

Herod the Great, Herod Archelaus, Herod Antipas, Philip - who was actually in charge of Israel when Jesus was alive? We sort through the Herods for you.