Podcasts about Herodias

Full Text of Readings Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 130 The Saint of the day is Saint John Chrysostom Saint John Chrysostom's Story The ambiguity and intrigue surrounding John, the great preacher (his name means “golden-mouthed”) from Antioch, are characteristic of the life of any great man in a capital city. Brought to Constantinople after a dozen years of priestly service in Syria, John found himself the reluctant victim of an imperial ruse to make him bishop in the greatest city of the empire. Ascetic, unimposing but dignified, and troubled by stomach ailments from his desert days as a monk, Saint John Chrysostom became a bishop under the cloud of imperial politics. If his body was weak, his tongue was powerful. The content of his sermons, his exegesis of Scripture, were never without a point. Sometimes the point stung the high and mighty. Some sermons lasted up to two hours. His lifestyle at the imperial court was not appreciated by many courtiers. He offered a modest table to episcopal sycophants hanging around for imperial and ecclesiastical favors. John deplored the court protocol that accorded him precedence before the highest state officials. He would not be a kept man. His zeal led him to decisive action. Bishops who bribed their way into office were deposed. Many of his sermons called for concrete steps to share wealth with the poor. The rich did not appreciate hearing from Saint John Chrysostom that private property existed because of Adam's fall from grace any more than married men liked to hear that they were bound to marital fidelity just as much as their wives were. When it came to justice and charity, John acknowledged no double standards. Aloof, energetic, outspoken, especially when he became excited in the pulpit, Saint John Chrysostom was a sure target for criticism and personal trouble. He was accused of gorging himself secretly on rich wines and fine foods. His faithfulness as spiritual director to the rich widow, Olympia, provoked much gossip attempting to prove him a hypocrite where wealth and chastity were concerned. His actions taken against unworthy bishops in Asia Minor were viewed by other ecclesiastics as a greedy, uncanonical extension of his authority. Theophilus, archbishop of Alexandria, and Empress Eudoxia were determined to discredit John. Theophilus feared the growth in importance of the Bishop of Constantinople and took occasion to charge John with fostering heresy. Theophilus and other angered bishops were supported by Eudoxia. The empress resented his sermons contrasting gospel values with the excesses of imperial court life. Whether intended or not, sermons mentioning the lurid Jezebel and impious Herodias were associated with the empress, who finally did manage to have John exiled. He died in exile in 407. Reflection Saint John Chrysostom's preaching, by word and example, exemplifies the role of the prophet to comfort the afflicted and to afflict the comfortable. For his honesty and courage, he paid the price of a turbulent ministry as bishop, personal vilification, and exile.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Original Post Date: August 29, 2024 === Gospel Mark 6:17-29 Herod was the one who had John the Baptist arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. She had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. Herodias' own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, "Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you." He even swore many things to her, "I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom." She went out and said to her mother, "What shall I ask for?" She replied, "The head of John the Baptist." The girl hurried back to the king's presence and made her request, "I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist." The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. Reflection We've been spending a lot of time this week focusing on the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. But now we have a king, King Herod, and we see something in him that is very like that. He's caught in a situation where he's afraid that he's going to be misunderstood by the public, and he cannot take a stand on what he believes, but does only what serves his ego. That's why we have to be careful with. The ego. Closing Prayer Father, nothing gives us more a sense of value and worth than being authentic. Saying what we believe. Acting on what we believe. Give us that kind of integrity. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Send us Fan MailTruth has a way of cornering us, especially when staying quiet feels safer. We reflect on the Passion of St. John the Baptist as more than a tragic Bible story, it's a mirror held up to our own compromises and our own fear of consequences. John is the Forerunner of Christ, a prophet formed by prayer, humility, and a fierce love for God's law, and his courage still challenges the Church today.We trace the Gospel account through Mark 6 and Matthew 14: John's rebuke of Herod Antipas over an unlawful union, the simmering hostility of Herodias, and the moment a banquet, a dance, and a rash oath turn into martyrdom. Along the way, we talk about why John is honored as a martyr for truth and the sanctity of marriage, and how his imprisonment reveals the collision between conversion and worldly power.The meditation doesn't end at the prison door. John's final witness points straight to Jesus with the words that define discipleship: “He must increase, but I must decrease.” If you want a deeper Catholic devotion to St. John the Baptist, practical fuel for prayer, and a clearer sense of what courageous fidelity looks like in daily life, this reflection is for you.Subscribe for more, share this with a friend who needs courage, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show. What part of John's witness hits closest to home for you?Open by Steve Bailey Support the showJourneys of Faith brings you Super Saints PodcastsVisit our blog for full text of our podcasts https://journeysoffaith.com/blogs/eucharist-mary-saintsDownload Journeys of Faith App for Iphone or Android FREE https://journeysoffaith.com/pages/download-our-appPlease consider subscribing to this podcast or making a donation to Journeys of Faith Help us Grow!Journeys of Faith is blessed to provide Catholic media, including podcasts and inspirational content, free of charge across multiple media platforms for viewers and listeners around the world. While access to this content remains free, there are significant and continually increasing costs associated with producing, hosting, and distributing these programs. Your support helps us continue sharing the beauty of the Catholic faith with souls everywhere. We want to reach more souls and you can help us do that by becoming a Mission Angel. Make a Donation Any AmountRefer a FriendYou can help us by referring a friend! When they upgrade you get $20 and so does Journeys of Faith...

Our Daily Scripture Readings and Reflection: Herodias sought the death of John the Baptist, and for a moment evil appeared victorious. But the executioner's sword could not silence the truth John proclaimed. Frank Pavone reflects on the Passion of St. John the Baptist and the enduring Christian conviction that death and evil never have the final word. Life, truth, and love ultimately triumph. That same conviction sustains us whenever the battle for life seems difficult.

17 For Herod himself had sent and apprehended John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias the wife of Philip his brother, because he had married her.Ipse enim Herodes misit, ac tenuit Joannem, et vinxit eum in carcere propter Herodiadem uxorem Philippi fratris sui, quia duxerat eam. 18 For John said to Herod: It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife.Dicebat enim Joannes Herodi : Non licet tibi habere uxorem fratris tui. 19 Now Herodias laid snares for him: and was desirous to put him to death, and could not.Herodias autem insidiabatur illi : et volebat occidere eum, nec poterat. 20 For Herod feared John, knowing him to be a just and holy man: and kept him, and when he heard him, did many things: and he heard him willingly.Herodes enim metuebat Joannem, sciens eum virum justum et sanctum : et custodiebat eum, et audito eo multa faciebat, et libenter eum audiebat. 21 And when a convenient day was come, Herod made a supper for his birthday, for the princes, and tribunes, and chief men of Galilee.Et cum dies opportunus accidisset, Herodes natalis sui coenam fecit principibus, et tribunis, et primis Galilaeae : 22 And when the daughter of the same Herodias had come in, and had danced, and pleased Herod, and them that were at table with him, the king said to the damsel: Ask of me what thou wilt, and I will give it thee.cumque introisset filia ipsius Herodiadis, et saltasset, et placuisset Herodi, simulque recumbentibus, rex ait puellae : Pete a me quod vis, et dabo tibi : 23 And he swore to her: Whatsoever thou shalt ask I will give thee, though it be the half of my kingdom.et juravit illi : Quia quidquid petieris dabo tibi, licet dimidium regni mei. 24 Who when she was gone out, said to her mother, What shall I ask? But she said: The head of John the Baptist.Quae cum exisset, dixit matri suae : Quid petam? At illa dixit : Caput Joannis Baptistae. 25 And when she was come in immediately with haste to the king, she asked, saying: I will that forthwith thou give me in a dish, the head of John the Baptist.Cumque introisset statim cum festinatione ad regem, petivit dicens : Volo ut protinus des mihi in disco caput Joannis Baptistae. 26 And the king was struck sad. Yet because of his oath, and because of them that were with him at table, he would not displease her:Et contristatus est rex : propter jusjurandum, et propter simul discumbentes, noluit eam contristare : 27 But sending an executioner, he commanded that his head should be brought in a dish.sed misso speculatore praecepit afferri caput ejus in disco. Et decollavit eum in carcere, 28 And he beheaded him in the prison, and brought his head in a dish: and gave it to the damsel, and the damsel gave it to her mother.et attulit caput ejus in disco : et dedit illud puellae, et puella dedit matri suae. 29 Which his disciples hearing came, and took his body, and laid it in a tomb.Quo audito, discipuli ejus venerunt, et tulerunt corpus ejus : et posuerunt illud in monumento.[20] "And kept him": That is, from the designs of Herodias; and for fear of the people, would not put him to death, though she sought it; and through her daughter she effected her wish.St John reproached Herod with his unlawful union with his brothers' wife. Herodias and her daughter Salome forced Herod to behead St John, the Precurser to the Messiah.

Im DOMRADIO.DE-Podcast „Blick in die Bibel“ spricht der Theologe, Religions- und Lateinlehrer Tobias Schrörs über seinen Weg zum Diakon mit Zivilberuf befindet und erzählt er die Geschichte eines Kirchenliedes, das er als Student zur Seligsprechung von Kardinal Clemens August Graf von Galen geschrieben hatte. Das Lied wurde zunächst bei Feierlichkeiten in Rom aufgeführt und später sogar im Petersdom bei der Seligsprechung gesungen. Zu seiner großen Überraschung fand es schließlich ohne vorherige Rücksprache Eingang in den Münsteraner Regionalteil des Gotteslobs.Anschließend wenden sich die Gesprächspartner dem Tagesevangelium aus Markus 6,17–29 zu, das von der Enthauptung Johannes des Täufers berichtet. Schrörs hebt hervor, wie wichtig Menschen sind, die unbequeme Wahrheiten aussprechen und Missstände benennen, selbst wenn sie dadurch Nachteile erfahren. Er verweist auf Kardinal von Galen, der während der Zeit des Nationalsozialismus öffentlich gegen die Euthanasiepolitik Stellung bezog. Auch heute brauche es Menschen, die sich gegen Unrecht, Menschenfeindlichkeit und die Verletzung der Menschenwürde aussprechen.Auf die Frage, was Menschen den Mut gibt, gegen Widerstände Haltung zu zeigen, betont Schrörs die Bedeutung gegenseitiger Unterstützung und des Vertrauens darauf, dass Gott an der Seite der Menschen steht. Das Christentum sei selten ein einfacher Weg gewesen; immer wieder habe es Zeiten der Verfolgung und des Widerstands gegeben. Gerade deshalb sei es wichtig, sich auf die Botschaft des Evangeliums zu besinnen. Alle Menschen seien von Gott geliebt und besäßen dieselbe Würde, unabhängig von Herkunft, Religion oder sozialem Status. Daraus erwachse die Verantwortung, für Menschlichkeit einzutreten und sich nicht aus Angst oder Bequemlichkeit zurückzuhalten.  EvangeliumHerodes hatte Johannes festnehmen und ins Gefängnis werfen lassen. Schuld daran war Herodias, die Frau seines Bruders Philippus, die er geheiratet hatte. Denn Johannes hatte zu Herodes gesagt: Du hattest nicht das Recht, die Frau deines Bruders zur Frau zu nehmen. Herodias verzieh ihm das nicht und wollte ihn töten lassen. Sie konnte ihren Plan aber nicht durchsetzen, denn Herodes fürchtete sich vor Johannes, weil er wusste, dass dieser ein gerechter und heiliger Mann war. Darum schützte er ihn. Sooft er mit ihm sprach, wurde er unruhig und ratlos, und doch hörte er ihm gern zu. Eines Tages ergab sich für Herodias eine günstige Gelegenheit. An seinem Geburtstag lud Herodes seine Hofbeamten und Offiziere zusammen mit den vornehmsten Bürgern von Galiläa zu einem Festmahl ein. Da kam die Tochter der Herodias und tanzte, und sie gefiel dem Herodes und seinen Gästen so sehr, dass der König zu ihr sagte: Wünsch dir, was du willst; ich werde es dir geben. Er schwor ihr sogar: Was du auch von mir verlangst, ich will es dir geben, und wenn es die Hälfte meines Reiches wäre. Sie ging hinaus und fragte ihre Mutter: Was soll ich mir wünschen? Herodias antwortete: Den Kopf des Täufers Johannes. Da lief das Mädchen zum König hinein und sagte: Ich will, dass du mir sofort auf einer Schale den Kopf des Täufers Johannes bringen lässt. Da wurde der König sehr traurig, aber weil er vor allen Gästen einen Schwur geleistet hatte, wollte er ihren Wunsch nicht ablehnen. Deshalb befahl er einem Scharfrichter, sofort ins Gefängnis zu gehen und den Kopf des Täufers herzubringen. Der Scharfrichter ging und enthauptete Johannes. Dann brachte er den Kopf auf einer Schale, gab ihn dem Mädchen, und das Mädchen gab ihn seiner Mutter. Als die Jünger des Johannes das hörten, kamen sie, holten seinen Leichnam und legten ihn in ein Grab. (Mk 6,17-29)

+ Holy Gospel according to Saint Mark 6, 17-29Herod was the one who had John arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife."Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him.She had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. Herodias's own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, "Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you." He even swore (many things) to her, "I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom."She went out and said to her mother, "What shall I ask for?" She replied, "The head of John the Baptist." The girl hurried back to the king's presence and made her request, "I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist."The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison.He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. The Gospel of The Lord

Read OnlineThe Baptist's Final SermonHerod was the one who had John the Baptist arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Mark 6:17–19Today's memorial recalls one of the most appalling acts of murder the world has ever known, surpassed only by the crucifixion of the Son of God. Saint John the Baptist stands as a towering figure in Salvation History. Though God raised up many prophets from the time of Israel's founding, none was greater than John, as our Lord Himself declared, “Among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist” (Matthew 11:11).John was miraculously conceived by elderly parents, Zechariah and Elizabeth, after long years of barrenness. The Archangel Gabriel foretold his birth, identifying him as the one who would go before the Lord “in the spirit and power of Elijah” (Luke 1:17). According to ancient Christian tradition, John was sanctified in his mother's womb at the moment of the Visitation. When the Blessed Virgin Mary, newly pregnant with the Son of God, greeted her kinswoman Elizabeth, “the infant leaped in her womb,” and Elizabeth was “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Luke 1:41).From the desert, John preached repentance, preparing hearts for the coming of the Messiah. But his boldness went beyond gentle invitations to conversion. He confronted the most powerful of his time, publicly rebuking Herod Antipas for his unlawful union with Herodias, his brother's wife. This courageous act of prophetic truth-telling cost John his freedom and, ultimately, his life.Herodias' vengeful hatred reveals the darkened heart of one who obstinately persists in grave sin when confronted by truth. She could not bear John's righteous rebuke. Herod, by contrast, was conflicted. He feared John, recognizing him as a holy and righteous man, and was even drawn to his preaching. But Herod lacked the moral courage to follow the truth. Enslaved by lust, pride, and concern for human opinion, he chose instead to silence the prophet through a cowardly act of murder at a banquet steeped in vanity and sensuality.Why would God permit the greatest of the prophets to suffer such a horrific death at the hands of evil? Because John's ultimate witness was not in his words or baptism alone, but in his martyrdom. His death became his greatest sermon, proclaiming through blood that the Messiah he heralded would also be slain by the wicked. Though John's disciples grieved his death—and Jesus Himself withdrew in sorrow when He heard the news—today the Church rejoices in the heroic witness of this great saint.The Church honors John as a prophet and a martyr. He is the only saint whose birth and martyrdom are both celebrated liturgically. His death prefigures the Passion of Christ. He was arrested, imprisoned, and executed not for any crime, but for fidelity to God's law. John's severed head was then displayed on a platter and stands as a chilling symbol of the world's rejection of God's truth.Are you willing to risk your comfort, your reputation, or even your life to uphold the truth? Saint John's witness continues to speak powerfully in every age. The full Gospel must always be proclaimed with clarity and courage. Martyrdom is not only a mark of past saints, it is the ongoing call of every faithful disciple. Whether through blood or through a daily dying to self, the world needs prophetic witnesses today.Reflect today on your own willingness to imitate Saint John's bold fidelity. How far are you willing to go to proclaim the Gospel to those who need it most? No sacrifice is too great, no cost too high when it comes to responding to Christ's call. Give everything for the Truth, and your witness will bear eternal fruit.My sorrowful Lord, Your Heart was grieved at the death of Saint John the Baptist, yet it also rejoiced in his unwavering fidelity to the truth he proclaimed with boldness and love. Fill me, too, with the spirit and power of Elijah, that I may carry on the proclamation of salvation in the way You have called me, even to the shedding of my blood, if You so will. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, by Hendrick Ter BrugghenSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

This consideration reflects on the biblical account of the martyrdom of St. John the Baptist, using the historical narrative to explore modern moral failures. It suggests that King Herod and Herodias represent the human tendency to silence voices that challenge our sinful habits or selfish desires. By analyzing Herod's internal conflict and ultimate surrender to social pressure and pride, the narrative argues that true freedom is the power to choose the good rather than simply indulging one's impulses. The discussion emphasizes that feelings of guilt and irritation are often internal signals of a moral law that people unsuccessfully try to suppress. Ultimately, I encourage listeners to view personal corrections and life's annoyances as opportunities for spiritual growth rather than reasons for resentment.

The account of John the Baptist and King Herod in Mark 6 cuts to the heart of one of the most pressing questions facing Christians today: why does the world push back against the faith, and how should believers respond? John was a prophet whose entire ministry was built on one message, repentance for the forgiveness of sins. When he confronted Herod about his unlawful marriage to Herodias, it was not a personal attack. It was the Word of God speaking directly into a sinful situation. Herodias responded with cold fury and eventually orchestrated John's execution. Herod, though he recognized John as a righteous man, was too cowardly to act on what he heard. He listened without obeying, and in the end, he lost everything.Four important lessons emerge from this story. First, God's Word is designed to expose sin, and that will sometimes feel offensive. Second, when Scripture convicts us, the right response is repentance, not resistance. Third, when God's Word offends others, believers are called to stand firm with grace and truth, not anger or compromise. The story of Finnish parliamentarian Paivi Rasanen, who endured 30 hours of police interrogation for a biblical booklet she wrote and refused to renounce her beliefs, is a modern example of that kind of courage. Fourth, right now, 388 million Christians around the world are being persecuted for their faith. They are not strangers. They are brothers and sisters in Christ, and they deserve our prayers, our support, and our solidarity.

Welcome to a special scripture-focused bonus episode of the Jesus Calling Podcast, where we examine the stories and roles of mothers in the Bible with author and host of the Old Ladies Know Stuff podcast Rhonda Stoppe. Rhonda walks us through the lives of women in the Bible like Naomi, Eunice the mother of Timothy, Mary, Rahab, the woman at the well, Herodias, and more. Rhonda shows us what we can learn from Biblical mothers that challenge and equip us to guide the next generation. Links, Products, and Resources Mentioned: Jesus Calling Podcast Jesus Calling Jesus Always Jesus Listens Rhonda Stoppe Moms of the Bible Interview Quotes: “God calls older women to teach the younger. When I look back on my life, I remember not having a clue how to be the wife I wanted to be, the mom I wanted to be, the woman I wanted to be. I needed mentors. I needed help.” - Rhonda Stoppe “I couldn’t stop exploring the lives of these women in history that God used for their time. So many of their flawed stories reflect the grace of God that says, ‘Now I’ve got you broken and now I can use you in a way I never could have used you had you not failed.’ Because now you’re relying completely on Christ alone.” - Rhonda Stoppe “If you look at all the moms in Scripture, and children throughout history, you will find that their first teachers were not theologians. It was their moms.” - Rhonda Stoppe “Eunice and Lois were pouring into Timothy. They didn’t know that they were raising the young man who Paul would one day hand over the mantle of his ministry to. Do what’s in front of you, trust God with the outcome.” - Rhonda Stoppe “We want to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. We want to raise our kids in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. We want to live in a manner worthy of our calling. And we want our life to reflect Christ’s love so that our kids want to follow Jesus.” - Rhonda Stoppe "‘No greater love has a friend than this: that he lays down his life for a friend.’ You are God-ordained, called to be the moms of this next generation. You’re shaping world changers. You are the architects of the next generation—this is an incredible calling that God has put on your life." - Rhonda Stoppe Connect with Jesus Calling Instagram Facebook Twitter Pinterest YouTube Website TikTok *Episode produced by Four Eyes Media Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

Why is it that people can have the truth standing directly in front of them and still fail to recognize it? In Matthew 13 and 14, we see a powerful principle: the condition of the heart can distort what the eyes see. When Jesus returned to His hometown, the people were astonished by His wisdom and mighty works, yet they could not get past their familiarity with Him. They knew His family. They knew where He had grown up. To them, He was still "the carpenter's son." Instead of allowing the evidence to change their perception of Jesus, they forced Jesus back into the category in which they had always placed Him. Their familiarity became a stumbling block that contributed to their unbelief. Then Matthew takes us immediately to Herod and Herodias. Herod hears about Jesus, but his guilty conscience causes him to conclude that John the Baptist has risen from the dead. Herodias sees John not as God's prophet, but as a threat because John exposed the sin she wanted to protect. Herod himself knows the people regard John as a prophet, yet fear, guilt, political pressure, and the opinions of others influence his actions. Nazareth looked through the lens of familiarity. Herod looked through the lens of guilt and fear. Herodias looked through the lens of rebellion and unrepentant sin. Different lenses—but the same result: distorted perception. In this message, Pastor Brandon Holthaus examines how familiarity, pride, guilt, fear, past experiences, and unrepentant sin can cause us to misinterpret people and even miss what God is doing right in front of us. Matthew 13:53–58

Why is it that people can have the truth standing directly in front of them and still fail to recognize it? In Matthew 13 and 14, we see a powerful principle: the condition of the heart can distort what the eyes see. When Jesus returned to His hometown, the people were astonished by His wisdom and mighty works, yet they could not get past their familiarity with Him. They knew His family. They knew where He had grown up. To them, He was still “the carpenter's son.” Instead of allowing the evidence to change their perception of Jesus, they forced Jesus back into the category in which they had always placed Him. Their familiarity became a stumbling block that contributed to their unbelief. Then Matthew takes us immediately to Herod and Herodias. Herod hears about Jesus, but his guilty conscience causes him to conclude that John the Baptist has risen from the dead. Herodias sees John not as God's prophet, but as a threat because John exposed the sin she wanted to protect. Herod himself knows the people regard John as a prophet, yet fear, guilt, political pressure, and the opinions of others influence his actions. Nazareth looked through the lens of familiarity. Herod looked through the lens of guilt and fear. Herodias looked through the lens of rebellion and unrepentant sin. Different lenses—but the same result: distorted perception. In this message, Pastor Brandon Holthaus examines how familiarity, pride, guilt, fear, past experiences, and unrepentant sin can cause us to misinterpret people and even miss what God is doing right in front of us. The question is not simply, “What am I looking at?” The deeper question is: “What is happening in my heart that is determining how I see it?”   #Matthew13 #Matthew14 #DistortedPerception #JesusChrist #JohnTheBaptist #BibleTeaching #BibleStudy #ChristianSermon #BiblicalTruth #PastorBrandonHolthaus #RockHarborChurch

Why is it that people can have the truth standing directly in front of them and still fail to recognize it? In Matthew 13 and 14, we see a powerful principle: the condition of the heart can distort what the eyes see. When Jesus returned to His hometown, the people were astonished by His wisdom and mighty works, yet they could not get past their familiarity with Him. They knew His family. They knew where He had grown up. To them, He was still "the carpenter's son." Instead of allowing the evidence to change their perception of Jesus, they forced Jesus back into the category in which they had always placed Him. Their familiarity became a stumbling block that contributed to their unbelief. Then Matthew takes us immediately to Herod and Herodias. Herod hears about Jesus, but his guilty conscience causes him to conclude that John the Baptist has risen from the dead. Herodias sees John not as God's prophet, but as a threat because John exposed the sin she wanted to protect. Herod himself knows the people regard John as a prophet, yet fear, guilt, political pressure, and the opinions of others influence his actions. Nazareth looked through the lens of familiarity. Herod looked through the lens of guilt and fear. Herodias looked through the lens of rebellion and unrepentant sin. Different lenses—but the same result: distorted perception. In this message, Pastor Brandon Holthaus examines how familiarity, pride, guilt, fear, past experiences, and unrepentant sin can cause us to misinterpret people and even miss what God is doing right in front of us. Matthew 13:53–58

When Herod the tetrarch hears the miracles of Jesus, Herod believes John has been raised from the dead. The Evangelist recounts the story of how John was martyred, going back to his imprisonment for preaching God's Word against Herod's adultery. Although Herod has authority, everyone around him exercises power over him, from Herodias to Herodias' daughter to the crowds. Although Herod cowardly puts John to death, the Word of God that John preached endures forever. John's death points forward to Christ's death, and Christ's resurrection promises John's resurrection.  Rev. Matt Wietfeldt, Assistant Vice President of Admissions at Concordia Theological Seminary in Ft. Wayne, IN, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Matthew 14:1-12.  “The Reign of Heaven Stands Near” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies the Gospel according to St. Matthew. The first evangelist proclaims that God has fulfilled His Old Testament promises by sending Jesus to bring the reign of the heavens among us. As the Son of David, Jesus is the gracious King we need, and as the Son of Abraham, Jesus is the blessing to all the families of the earth.  Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Pastor Appel serves at Faith Lutheran Church in Godfrey, IL. Learn more at flcgodfrey.org. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org

“Speaking Truth to Worldly Power” Matthew 14:1-13                                     August 2, 2026 Pastor Tony Felich   ----more---- Matthew 14:1 At that time Herod the tetrarch heard about the fame of Jesus, [2] and he said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist. He has been raised from the dead; that is why these miraculous powers are at work in him.” [3] For Herod had seized John and bound him and put him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, [4] because John had been saying to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” [5] And though he wanted to put him to death, he feared the people, because they held him to be a prophet. [6] But when Herod's birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company and pleased Herod, [7] so that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. [8] Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.” [9] And the king was sorry, but because of his oaths and his guests he commanded it to be given. [10] He sent and had John beheaded in the prison, [11] and his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. [12] And his disciples came and took the body and buried it, and they went and told Jesus. [13] Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns.   God calls His servants to speak His truth faithfully, trusting that His kingdom will prevail regardless of the cost.       •  Worldly Power Is Threatened by God's Truth (1–5)         •  Worldly Power Is Corrupted by Sin (6–11)         •  God's Kingdom Advances Through Faithful Witness (12–13)

Original Post Date: August 3, 2024 === Gospel Matthew 14:1-12  Herod the tetrarch heard of the reputation of Jesus and said to his servants, "This man is John the Baptist. He has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him." Now Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, for John had said to him, "It is not lawful for you to have her." Although he wanted to kill him, he feared the people, for they regarded him as a prophet. But at a birthday celebration for Herod, the daughter of Herodias performed a dance before the guests and delighted Herod so much that he swore to give her whatever she might ask for. Prompted by her mother, she said, "Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist." The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests who were present, he ordered that it be given, and he had John beheaded in the prison. His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. His disciples came and took away the corpse and buried him; and they went and told Jesus. Reflection One of the things that has been a great mystery to me is how difficult it has been for the church to make changes, to go from the Old Testament model to the New Testament. And the Old Kingdom to the New Kingdom. And even in the church's history when change came about, it was always difficult for the church to make those changes if they demanded that people see things differently. God's grace is essential for us to embrace the new and integrate it with the old. It's always going to be that way. It's never everything's the same. Certain laws and rules are essential, but how we live them, how we understand them changes as we change. Closing Prayer Father, it's clear that the church is going through some radical changes. Ever since Vatican Two, there's been a stress on the union that we've longed to see in the church. And it has separated us into groups of people who seem to be at odds with each other. The kingdom of heaven is something that we must embrace together. And working together with a spirit of openness is essential. That's what I pray for the church today, that we embrace the new, even though it's difficult, and preserve some of the old, even though that may be difficult for some. Bless us through this crisis. And we ask this in Jesus' name. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

+ Holy Gospel according to St. Matthew 14: 1 – 12: At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the reputation of Jesus and said to his servants, "This man is John the Baptist. He has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him." Now Herod had arrested John, bound (him), and put him in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, for John had said to him, "It is not lawful for you to have her." Although he wanted to kill him, he feared the people, for they regarded him as a prophet. But at a birthday celebration for Herod, the daughter of Herodias performed a dance before the guests and delighted Herod so much that he swore to give her whatever she might ask for. Prompted by her mother, she said, "Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist." The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests who were present, he ordered that it be given, and he had John beheaded in the prison. His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who took it to her mother. His disciples came and took away the corpse and buried him; and they went and told Jesus. The Gospel of the Lord

Read OnlineCharity Unto DeathNow Herod had arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, for John had said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” Although he wanted to kill him, he feared the people, for they regarded him as a prophet. Matthew 14:3–5Saint John the Baptist was unwaveringly bold in his preaching, humble in his disposition toward God, and faithful to the truth he proclaimed. These holy virtues, however, did not spare him from the clutches of Herod—a man morally weak, politically fearful, and unrepentant. In the end, Herod not only imprisoned John but, through the manipulation of his unlawful wife and her daughter, had him killed.Who, then, was victorious? From a worldly perspective, it seemed Herod was. John was not only persecuted but martyred. Yet the true victory belonged to John. His triumph was not in escaping suffering but in remaining faithful—faithful to the truth, to charity toward Herod, and to the salvation of Herod's soul. This sacrificial charity moved John to speak boldly, even at the cost of his life.At John's death, Jesus grieved deeply. The loss was real and sorrowful, but not despairing. John's followers also mourned out of love. He had changed many lives and prepared the way for Jesus' ministry. Of him, Jesus said, “No one born of woman is greater than he” (Matthew 11:11).Today, separated by 2,000 years, it can be difficult to feel the sorrow of John's loved ones. Yet the sting of that loss was profound because John loved profoundly. Those who are arrogant and self-centered often fade quickly from memory. But when a life radiates holiness, inspires through simplicity, and transforms hearts through truth, that loss is deeply and rightly mourned.The greatest human sorrow ever known was the mutual suffering of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, whose love was perfect. Their hearts were pierced not only by personal grief, but by the weight of humanity's sin.John's death was not tragic; it was meaningful. He died for the truth, for charity, for the Messiah. He died as a man deeply loved, whose life touched many. He died not in bitterness or confusion, but in courage, compassion, and purpose. His ministry was powerful, but the witness of his grace-filled martyrdom was even more so.Each of us is called to imitate Saint John the Baptist in our own way—with boldness, humility, and fidelity. We are called to love with a charity that becomes sacrificial, even costly. John's life is a model of that sanctity. Can we see ourselves in him?When you examine your life, do you live boldly and confidently in the truth? Or do you give in to fear, which often leads to confusion and apathy? Is your charity strong enough to endure suffering, even unjust persecution, for the glory of God and the salvation of souls—including your own? Reflect today on the strength of your charity. We are all called to a love so deep that it requires supernatural courage and understanding. Consider your life through the powerful lens of Saint John the Baptist's witness. Sacrifice is painful. It was for John, for his followers, and even for Jesus. Are you willing to endure such suffering in fidelity to God's will? Seek the Baptist's intercession today and follow his example, that your charity may touch many lives and leave a lasting impression. Most loving Lord Jesus, Your human heart grieved the suffering and death of John the Baptist, whose mission was to prepare the way for Your public ministry. Yet Your sorrow did not flow from despair, but from love and gratitude for John's life and his selfless witness, born of true charity. Grant me, I pray, that same courage and love that flowed from John's heart, so that my life, like his, may leave a lasting impression on others, give You glory, and sanctify my own soul. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Martyrdom of St John the Baptist, by Lawrence OP, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Herod watched the dance, enjoyed the attention, and made a reckless promise: “I will give you anything you want.”That one commitment would lead to a deadly consequence.In this message, Dr. Gian examines the corruption surrounding Herod, Herodias, and her daughter, and reveals what can happen when lust, pride, pleasure, and public approval become more important than character and obedience to God.One dance. One promise. One deadly mistake.Watch now and learn why uncontrolled desires can lead people into decisions they can never take back.#DrGian 

In this episode, Pastor Harold Noyes and co-host Pastor Timothy Golden explore Mark 6:14–29 to discuss why people so often become offended by Jesus and a transformed lifestyle, drawing parallels between King Herod's guilt-driven regret over beheading John the Baptist and modern human nature. Highlighting how Herod secretly respected John and enjoyed listening to him in private, yet caved to public pressure and political manipulation by Herodias, the pastors examine the tragic sequence of events leading to John's execution at a birthday feast. Ultimately, the conversation shifts to finding ultimate deliverance in God, reminding believers to stand firm in their faith and avoid becoming offended when God's answers differ from human expectations.

Full Text of Readings Solemnity of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Lectionary: 586, 587 The Saint of the day is Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Story of the Nativity of Saint John the Baptist Jesus called John the greatest of all those who had preceded him: “I tell you, among those born of women, no one is greater than John….” But John would have agreed completely with what Jesus added: “[Y]et the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he” (Luke 7:28). John spent his time in the desert, an ascetic. He began to announce the coming of the Kingdom, and to call everyone to a fundamental reformation of life. His purpose was to prepare the way for Jesus. His baptism, he said, was for repentance. But one would come who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. John was not worthy even to untie his sandals. His attitude toward Jesus was: “He must increase; I must decrease” (John 3:30). John was humbled to find among the crowd of sinners who came to be baptized the one whom he already knew to be the Messiah. “I need to be baptized by you” (Matthew 3:14b). But Jesus insisted, “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Matthew 3:15b). Jesus, true and humble human as well as eternal God, was eager to do what was required of any good Jew. Jesus thus publicly entered the community of those awaiting the Messiah. But making himself part of that community, he made it truly messianic. The greatness of John, his pivotal place in the history of salvation, is seen in the great emphasis Luke gives to the announcement of his birth and the event itself—both made prominently parallel to the same occurrences in the life of Jesus. John attracted countless people to the banks of the Jordan, and it occurred to some people that he might be the Messiah. But he constantly deferred to Jesus, even to sending away some of his followers to become the first disciples of Jesus. Perhaps John's idea of the coming of the Kingdom of God was not being perfectly fulfilled in the public ministry of Jesus. For whatever reason, when he was in prison he sent his disciples to ask Jesus if he was the Messiah. Jesus' answer showed that the Messiah was to be a figure like that of the Suffering Servant in Isaiah. John himself would share in the pattern of messianic suffering, losing his life to the revenge of Herodias. Reflection John challenges us Christians to the fundamental attitude of Christianity—total dependence on the Father, in Christ. Except for the Mother of God, no one had a higher function in the unfolding of salvation. Yet the least in the kingdom, Jesus said, is greater than he, for the pure gift that the Father gives. The attractiveness as well as the austerity of John, his fierce courage in denouncing evil—all stem from his fundamental and total placing of his life within the will of God. The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist shows us the way to purity and graceSaint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Why did Jesus label Herod Antipas a "fox"? Join Fr. Assisi Saldanha, C.Ss.R., in this insightful episode of Who's Who in the Bible as we unpack the complex life of this Tetrarch. We dive into the political maneuvers behind his rule, the moral controversy surrounding his marriage to Herodias, and the chilling reasons behind the execution of St. John the Baptist. Discover how Herod's deep-seated insecurity led him to fear both the Prophet and Jesus himself, ultimately shaping the dramatic trial of Christ. This series masterfully blends historical context with spiritual reflection, helping you engage with biblical figures in a fresh way. Don't miss this compelling deep dive—view the full series today to enrich your prayer and understanding!

Luke 3:15-20 New International Version 15 The people were waiting expectantly and were all wondering in their hearts if John might possibly be the Messiah. 16 John answered them all, “I baptize you with[a] water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with[b] the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” 18 And with many other words John exhorted the people and proclaimed the good news to them. 19 But when John rebuked Herod the tetrarch because of his marriage to Herodias, his brother’s wife, and all the other evil things he had done, 20 Herod added this to them all: He locked John up in prison.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Luke 3:16-22 New International Version 16 John answered them all, “I baptize you with[a] water. But one who is more powerful than I will come, the straps of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with[b] the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” 18 And with many other words John exhorted the people and proclaimed the good news to them. 19 But when John rebuked Herod the tetrarch because of his marriage to Herodias, his brother’s wife, and all the other evil things he had done, 20 Herod added this to them all: He locked John up in prison. The Baptism and Genealogy of Jesus 21 When all the people were being baptized, Jesus was baptized too. And as he was praying, heaven was opened 22 and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it cost to follow Jesus?In this powerful message from Mark 6, Pastor Ryan Visconti explores the life and death of John the Baptist and reveals what faithful discipleship looks like in a culture that often rejects truth.As people speculated about Jesus and misunderstood who He was, John the Baptist boldly proclaimed God's truth—even when it cost him everything. This message challenges believers to stand firm in conviction, understand who Jesus truly is, and remain faithful no matter the cost.Through the story of Herod, Herodias, and John the Baptist, we discover the dangers of compromise, the importance of courage, and why Jesus is the King above every earthly ruler.

Ghost and Ashe in America kick off season four of The Chosen with the gut-wrenching first episode, which bookends John the Baptist's entire life in a single hour. The hosts open with a hard look at why elections are fake, why the Republican Party is the actual enemy, and why John in Herod's court is a warning about what happens when you let government distract you from the man you were supposed to be walking with. Then they walk through the whole arc: Mary's visit to Elizabeth, the baby leaping in the womb, the dance training of Salome, Herodias using her own daughter to stay comfortable in her sin, and John laughing on the way to his beheading because he is on his way to a wedding banquet. Along the way: Wesley Huff debating Billy Carson, Eric Larson's slivers and glances method applied to how the showrunners present Herod, the laundry scene as a metaphor for sin, Judas wanting to take up a collection and how that becomes the modern 501(c)(3) church, and a renewed appreciation for the Catholic church holding its ground while the Protestants crumble.

 Mark 6:14–29This week we walk into one of the darkest and most sobering passages in Scripture: the beheading of John the Baptist. But this message is about far more than one man's death. It is about what happens when people repeatedly ignore the voice of God until conviction grows quiet.In this message we will examine:The danger of a hardened heartHow bitterness destroys lives and families The consequences of hidden sin and compromiseWhy conviction is actually the mercy of GodThe terrifying reality of silencing your conscienceHerod heard truth but refused to surrender.Herodias allowed offense to become bitterness.Salome became collateral damage in sinful dysfunction.And John the Baptist stood boldly for truth no matter the cost.This sermon speaks directly to:✔️ Spiritual compromise✔️ Unforgiveness✔️ Pride and rebellion✔️ Conviction of sin✔️ Repentance and salvation through Jesus ChristIf you have ever struggled with guilt, bitterness, conviction, or wondering whether God is still speaking to your heart, this message is for you.#Sermon #Mark6 #JohnTheBaptist #BiblicalPreaching #ChristianLiving #Repentance #Conviction #Forgiveness #Faith #JesusChrist #Church #BibleStudy #GospelTruth #ChristianEncouragement #Preaching #SpiritualGrowth #BaptistChurch #SundayService #ChristianFaith #BiblePreaching

 Mark 6:14–29This week we walk into one of the darkest and most sobering passages in Scripture: the beheading of John the Baptist. But this message is about far more than one man's death. It is about what happens when people repeatedly ignore the voice of God until conviction grows quiet.In this message we will examine:The danger of a hardened heartHow bitterness destroys lives and families The consequences of hidden sin and compromiseWhy conviction is actually the mercy of GodThe terrifying reality of silencing your conscienceHerod heard truth but refused to surrender.Herodias allowed offense to become bitterness.Salome became collateral damage in sinful dysfunction.And John the Baptist stood boldly for truth no matter the cost.This sermon speaks directly to:✔️ Spiritual compromise✔️ Unforgiveness✔️ Pride and rebellion✔️ Conviction of sin✔️ Repentance and salvation through Jesus ChristIf you have ever struggled with guilt, bitterness, conviction, or wondering whether God is still speaking to your heart, this message is for you.#Sermon #Mark6 #JohnTheBaptist #BiblicalPreaching #ChristianLiving #Repentance #Conviction #Forgiveness #Faith #JesusChrist #Church #BibleStudy #GospelTruth #ChristianEncouragement #Preaching #SpiritualGrowth #BaptistChurch #SundayService #ChristianFaith #BiblePreaching

by Reagan McClenny

2026-05-17 Why John?by Pastor Chris Berg Scripture Reference: Mark 6:14-2914 King Herod heard about this, for Jesus' name had become well known. Some were saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.”15 Others said, “He is Elijah.” And still others claimed, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago.”16 But when Herod heard this, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!”17 For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, whom he had married. 18 For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to, 20 because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him.21 Finally the opportune time came. On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. 22 When the daughter of Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask me for anything you want, and I'll give it to you.” 23 And he promised her with an oath, “Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my kingdom.”24 She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” “The head of John the Baptist,” she answered.25 At once the girl hurried in to the king with the request: “I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptist on a platter.”26 The king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did not want to refuse her. 27 So he immediately sent an executioner with orders to bring John's head. The man went, beheaded John in the prison, 28 and brought back his head on a platter. He presented it to the girl, and she gave it to her mother. 29 On hearing of this, John's disciples came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.Mandeville Bible Church   "Where God's Word is Our Foundation"https://www.mandevillebiblechurch.org/Come and see that God's Word is alive and at work right here in Mandeville.. and throughout the world!All are welcome. 217 Carroll Street, Mandeville, LA 70448Office Phone: (985) 626-3114Sunday Service: 9:30AMAdult Sunday School: 10:45-11:30AMNursery and Children's church available.Sermon Notes from Pocket AI:Sermon Structure OutlineI. Introduction: The Difficulty of the Text The sermon addresses Mark 6:14–29, a passage the speaker admits was initially difficult to approach. The challenge lies not in its interpretation or subject matter, but in its purpose: why did Mark include this specific parenthetical flashback about the death of John the Baptist? The thesis is established that all Scripture is "God-breathed" and profitable, meaning this passage exists to increase the believer's usefulness and maturity.II. The Identity Crisis: Who is Jesus? The narrative begins with the fame of Jesus reaching Herod Antipas. The public offers three primary theories on Jesus' identity:The Resurrected John the Baptist: Herod's personal conviction, fueled by guilt and fear.Elijah: Based on the prophecy in Malachi 4 regarding a forerunner before the Day of the Lord.A Prophet of Old: A belief that the 400-year "silent period" had ended with a new prophetic voice.III. The Flashback: The Martyrdom of John the Baptist The speaker details the "daytime TV" complexity of Herod's household. Herod had married Herodias, his half-brother Philip's wife. John the Baptist publicly rebuked this as unlawful (Leviticus 18, 20).The Conflict: Herodias harbored a grudge and wanted John dead, while Herod protected him, finding his preaching "perplexing yet fascinating."The Execution: During a drunken birthday banquet, Herodias' daughter (Salome) pleased Herod with a dance. Bound by a rash, public oath to give her "up to half the kingdom," Herod was manipulated into beheading John to save face before his guests.IV. The Theological Purpose: Why Mark Included the Story The speaker identifies three reasons for this narrative's inclusion:Foreshadowing Christ: There are direct parallels between John and Jesus. Both were feared/admired by rulers (Herod/Pilate), both were killed to appease a crowd, and both had their bodies requested by disciples for burial.Identifying the Forerunner: Jesus later confirms that John was the "Elijah" who was to come and suffer.Preparing the Church for Persecution: The original readers (likely under Nero) needed to see that righteous living often invites worldly hatred.V. Conclusion: The Choice of Soil The sermon concludes by contrasting Herod's "bad soil"—treating the Word of God as mere entertainment—with the call to entrust oneself to the "Just Judge."Key Scripture References2 Timothy 3:15-17: The foundational claim that all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching and training in righteousness.Mark 6:14-29: The primary text detailing Herod's reaction to Jesus and the flashback to John's beheading.Leviticus 18:16 & 20:21: The moral law John used to confront Herod regarding his marriage to his brother's wife.Malachi 4:5-6: The prophecy regarding the return of Elijah.1 Peter 2:23: The model of Christ, who did not revile when reviled but entrusted Himself to God.Audience Reflection SectionThe "Herod" Trap: Are you treating spiritual teaching as "interesting" or "fascinating" without allowing it to change your life? Herod liked listening to John but remained "bad soil."The Cost of Truth: John the Baptist was beheaded for pointing out a specific sin. Are we willing to stand for the truth of God's Word even when it is socially or politically "unlawful" or unpopular?Entrusting the Judge: When facing rejection or "persecution" in daily life, do we respond with a "nasty tongue," or do we follow the example of Christ by entrusting our reputation and safety to God?Actionable TakeawaysStudy the "Difficult" Passages: Do not skip over genealogies or uncomfortable narratives in the Bible. Approach them with the conviction that they are there to "equip you for every good work."Practice "Scripture Before Screens": Align with the speaker's protocol of primary preparation through prayer and the Word to avoid being "bad soil" influenced by the world's noise.Reject Appeasement: Identify areas where you might be tempted to "save face" or appease a crowd at the expense of your convictions, as Herod did during his banquet.Endure Rejection: Expect that a life of faith will meet friction. When reviled, consciously choose not to revile in return, but to "continue entrusting" yourself to God.

What if the world measured motherhood, not by perfection or public acclaim, but by quiet courage, surrender, and faith? In this heartfelt Mother’s Day episode of Christian Parent Crazy World, Catherine invites celebrated author and mentor Rhonda Stoppe to lift the veil on the real stories of the moms of the Bible—fearless, flawed, faithful, and sometimes forgotten women whose lives still shape generations. Drawing from her acclaimed new book, Moms of the Bible: Life Changing Lessons from the Fearless, Flawed, and Faithful, Rhonda Stoppe brings wisdom honed by decades of ministry, parenting, and podcasting (Old Ladies Know Stuff). Together, Catherine and Rhonda Stoppe explore what it means to mother in a world obsessed with perfection, reminding listeners that God’s view of motherhood is radically different—and infinitely more freeing. What You’ll Discover in This Episode God Sees and Honors Moms—Even When No One Else DoesScripture overflows with stories of mothers just like you—women who wrestled, wept, waited, and worshiped as God unfolded His plans in unexpected ways. While culture often dismisses the daily work of mothering as mundane or menial, Catherine and Rhonda Stoppe reveal how the Bible places immense value on those unseen acts of love and faithfulness. From Mary’s Brave Surrender to Rebecca’s Mistakes Hear how Mary, the mother of Jesus, chose courageous “yes” in the face of misunderstanding and rejection, modeling trust in God’s unseen plans. Explore Rebecca’s story—a tale of good intentions gone awry as she tries to “help” God’s promises along, unleashing sibling rivalry and a generational legacy. Learn that God works through flawed, real women, not perfect ones, and that repentance and humility write a new story for us and our children. The Power and Danger of Partiality Rhonda Stoppe uncovers the lasting damage of favoritism in families, drawing from biblical narratives and honest reflections on her own upbringing. Listeners are encouraged to honestly assess their parenting, seek God’s agape love, and pursue forgiveness and restoration when favoritism has taken root. When You Feel like the Mom with No Name Sometimes, a mother’s extraordinary impact is never recognized by the world—or even, at times, by her own children. The story of David’s unnamed mother powerfully affirms the kingdom value of unseen, faithful work. “The influence of unnamed mothers has shaped nations, inspired leaders, nurtured artists and motivated ordinary children to accomplish extraordinary achievements.” – Rhonda Stoppe Real Talk: Healing from Deep Wounds In a moving post-interview segment, Rhonda Stoppe addresses the pain of those raised by abusive mothers through the biblical story of Herodias and her daughter, offering hope, the necessity of Christ-centered forgiveness, and the invitation to seek healing through biblical counseling. Why This Matters In a culture that honors mothers with a day, but often disenfranchises the work of motherhood, this episode re-centers the sacredness, complexity, and generational reach of a mother’s influence. Catherine and Rhonda Stoppe invite you to see your mothering through the eyes of God—full of purpose, dignity, and hope. About the Guest Rhonda Stoppe is a bestselling author, speaker, mom of four, and grandmother of fifteen. Known for her practical wisdom and biblical insight, Rhonda is host of the Old Ladies Know Stuff podcast and beloved mentor to moms and grandmothers across the nation. Her books, including Moms Raising Sons to Be Men and Real Life Romance, equip Christian families for generational impact. Reflect & Respond Which mom’s story resonated most with you—fearless Mary, flawed Rebecca, faithful Hannah, or a nameless mother who faithfully packed lunches and taught quietly in her home? What might change in your parenting if you saw yourself as called and seen by God, not defined by comparison or invisibility? Notable takeaway: “God doesn’t need perfection. He’s just looking for surrender. He works through the ordinary, the overlooked, and, yes, even the messy moments of motherhood to accomplish His extraordinary plans.” — Catherine Call to Action:This week, seek out a godly mentor—or encourage another mom who might feel forgotten. Your story matters. Your daily yes to God matters. How will you step boldly into your unique season of motherhood, trusting that God shapes generations through faithful, ordinary women? Listen now and be refreshed—motherhood, in all its mess and glory, is sacred work in the hands of God. Episode Resources Rhonda’s Website & Resources:noregretswoman.com (Free first chapter, video curriculum, articles, and more) Moms of the Bible: Life Changing Lessons from the Fearless, Flawed, and FaithfulOn Amazon Rhonda’s Podcast:Old Ladies Know Stuff Podcast Rhonda’s YouTube Channel:Rhonda Stoppe, No Regrets Woman Connect with Catherine & Free Parenting Resources:Free faith-filled resources for parents, including prodigal bundles, scripture lists, and more at catherinesegars.com Biblical Counseling Directory:Association of Certified Biblical Counselors (ACBC) Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

During this message, we looked at Mark chapter 6 Herodias. Herodias became a villain by… nursing a grudge capitalizing on a vulnerable moment. This weekend, Pastor Mark Pope guided us through these two important points as we began our new Villains series. This week be challenged to release any grudges you are holding.

Read OnlineThe disciples had forgotten to bring bread, and they had only one loaf with them in the boat. Jesus enjoined them, “Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.” Mark 8:14–15Jesus and the disciples frequently traveled by boat, visiting many towns and villages along the Sea of Galilee. After a fruitful visit to the Gentile territory of the Decapolis, Jesus and His disciples crossed to Dalmanutha. Upon disembarking, some Pharisees, who had likely heard of His miraculous feeding of the 4,000, demanded a sign from Him. Jesus, deeply grieved by their lack of faith, sighed from the depths of His spirit, refused their request, and departed again by boat. It was during this boat ride that today's Gospel took place.Jesus' holy sorrow over the Pharisees' hardness of heart deeply affected Him. His grief was not one of self-pity over their rejection of Him but stemmed from His divine compassion. He felt the weight of their lack of faith and their refusal to embrace the truth of God's love. It was this profound sorrow that prompted Jesus to caution His disciples, saying, “Watch out, guard against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod.”“Leaven,” in this context, symbolizes a hidden yet pervasive influence that governed both the Pharisees and Herod. Just as a small amount of yeast permeates an entire batch of dough, causing it to rise, so too the destructive influence of the Pharisees and Herod spread through their actions and teachings, corrupting others. With His sorrowful encounter with the Pharisees fresh in mind, Jesus used the moment to warn His disciples not to allow such corrupting influences to take root in their own hearts.The Pharisees' hidden, pervasive, and destructive quality lay in their excessive focus on external observances of the Law and the traditions derived from it. Their rigid legalism blinded them to the true meaning of God's Law—mercy and the inner disposition of the heart—leading to their own spiritual ruin and to the misleading of others.Herod's “leaven” likely refers to a worldly mindset characterized by a relentless pursuit of power, wealth, and pleasure. Herod chose the fleeting allure of worldly things over God's eternal truths. Herod's pride and destructive behavior epitomize this mindset, which ultimately led him to have John the Baptist executed for courageously speaking the truth about Herod's adulterous relationship with his brother's wife, Herodias.Jesus' admonition to His disciples on the boat is not only a condemnation of the Pharisees' and Herod's sins but a warning about the influence such pervasive sins can have on them. Likewise, just as Jesus cautioned His disciples, so too does He caution us today: “Watch out” and “guard against” the influences that do not arise from God's saving Truth. In our world, it is essential to recognize how pervasive societal ideologies and moralities can subtly shape our thoughts and actions. By remaining vigilant and rooted in Christ, we must discern and reject the leaven of worldliness, hypocrisy, and pride, allowing God's divine light to guide our lives.Reflect today on the influences that shape your life. Do you spend countless hours on social media, browsing the Internet, or watching television? If so, take a moment to consider the hidden yet pervasive effects of the content you consume and discern if it is subtly leading you astray. The only true remedy against such worldly influences is found in prayer and the Word of God. The Gospel must permeate our minds and hearts, acting as leaven to transform us from within. This divine leaven is nourished through prayer, the Sacraments, and an ongoing commitment to the Gospel. Heed Jesus' warning, spoken to His disciples but intended for every generation: Remain vigilant. Guard your heart and mind, ensuring they are firmly rooted in God's saving grace. My grieving Lord, Your heart was filled with holy sorrow over the sins of the Pharisees and Herod, especially as You witnessed the harmful influence they had on others. Please grant me the gift of spiritual insight, so that I may recognize the influences that shape my thoughts and actions. May Your Word and Your Truth alone guide me, and may I become a witness to that Truth, serving as a holy influence for others. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: James Tissot, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Gospel Mark 6:14-29 King Herod heard about Jesus, for his fame had become widespread, and people were saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him.” Others were saying, “He is Elijah”; still others, “He is a prophet like any of the prophets.” But when Herod learned of it, he said, “It is John whom I beheaded. He has been raised up.” Herod was the one who had John arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias,  the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. Herodias had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. His own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you.”  He even swore many things to her, “I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” Her mother replied, “The head of John the Baptist.” The girl hurried back to the king's presence and made her request, “I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. Reflection Herodias gets a lot of attention in this reading, and that's the way it should be. But I'd like to look for a minute at Herod. Because Herod was an interesting character who had John the Baptist imprisoned, and then almost as if he said, I want him here so I can go and listen to him, because I don't know exactly what he's saying, but I really like listening to him. It's a beautiful image of Herod as a man who is really attracted, perhaps to the truth. And when confronted with who is Jesus, he proclaims he thinks that he's really John the Baptist reincarnated. Closing Prayer Father, you have place something inside of us that somehow knows when something is true. It's your spirit living in us. The Holy Spirit is truth, is life, is light. And when we see that in someone else, we're drawn to it naturally. Help us always to be aware of those that carry the truth, and let us surrender to what it is they're seeking to tell us. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Read OnlineKing Herod heard about Jesus, for his fame had become widespread, and people were saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead; That is why mighty powers are at work in him.” Others were saying, “He is Elijah”; still others, “He is a prophet like any of the prophets.” But when Herod learned of it, he said, “It is John whom I beheaded. He has been raised up.” Mark 6:14–16When a person sins seriously and refuses to repent, the damaging effects of that sin deepen over time, creating spiritual blindness and unrest. In contrast, repentance not only brings forgiveness, it allows God to transform the wounds of sin into instruments of grace, using even our failures for His glory.Herod is a prime example of how obstinacy magnifies the damage caused by sin. The first paragraph of today's Gospel takes place some time after Herod executed John. The rest of the Gospel recounts how Herod was manipulated into beheading John by Herodias, his illegitimate wife, and her daughter. While much could be said about John's execution and the good fruit borne by his ultimate testimony to the Truth, it is also helpful to reflect on Herod's pitiful state to learn from his failure in order to avoid a similar response to sin.As soon as Jesus was baptized by John in the Jordan River, John's ministry began to decrease, as he himself acknowledged: “He must increase; I must decrease” (John 3:30). John's mission was one of preparation for the Messiah, calling people to repentance and pointing to the One who would bring salvation. Once Jesus began His public ministry, John's work was complete, and God permitted his arrest by Herod so that his martyrdom could become his greatest witness to Christ.Jesus' ministry was markedly different from John's. While John preached repentance and fearlessly rebuked Herod for his sinful relationship, Jesus' public ministry was marked not only by authoritative teaching but also by miraculous signs, including healings and even raising the dead. His fame spread quickly, reaching even Herod.When Herod heard about Jesus, he irrationally concluded that Jesus was John the Baptist raised from the dead. This reaction reveals Herod's inner turmoil. His erroneous belief was not borne of faith but of the torment of a guilty conscience. Herod had killed a holy man. His unresolved guilt blinded him to this truth and distorted his perception of Jesus, preventing him from recognizing the Messiah.Herod's tragic story reveals the universal danger of unrepentant sin, offering us a lesson about the destructive power of guilt and the healing grace of repentance. Unrepentant sin not only leads to further sin but also causes irrational thinking, fear, and paranoia. His guilt interfered with his ability to think clearly and rationally—not only about Jesus but likely about many other aspects of his life.Similarly, when we fall into serious sin, we are faced with two paths: repentance or obstinacy. Repentance opens the door to God's mercy, healing, and transformation. Through His grace, this path not only sets us free but also forms virtue within us and opens us to the spiritual gift of wisdom. Obstinacy, on the other hand, leaves us in spiritual unrest, deepening the wounds of sin. That path leads to self-destructive irrationality, confusion, and blindness. Reflect today on the importance of sincere and total repentance for past sins. Though difficult, an honest assessment of our sins and sincere repentance is the path to immediate freedom and eternal glory. We must understand and believe in the power of repentance. When we fall into sin, we must have the courage to face it, own it, and seek God's mercy. Learn from Herod by rejecting his example, and allow God's mercy to flood your life, eliminating the effects of a guilty conscience and leading you to peace and freedom. Most merciful Lord, I come before You as a sinner in need of Your infinite mercy. Free me from the spiritual blindness and obstinacy that prevent me from fully opening my heart to You. Grant me the courage to confess my guilt without fear, so that I may receive the forgiveness only You can give. By Your grace, transform my past sins into opportunities for Your glory, and turn my guilt into virtue through the gifts of Your Holy Spirit. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Caravaggio, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Read OnlineWhen Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee… From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” Matthew 4:12, 17When John the Baptist was arrested, his followers were likely overcome with fear and grief. The man they revered as a prophet, who fearlessly proclaimed the coming of the Messiah and called for repentance through baptism, had been imprisoned. John was arrested by Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great, infamous for ordering the massacre of infants in Bethlehem. Like his father, Herod Antipas was ambitious and morally corrupt. As tetrarch of Galilee and Perea under Roman authority, Herod's political survival depended on maintaining Roman favor. He often used religion to secure legitimacy among the Jewish people, though his actions routinely violated Jewish law.Though nominally Jewish, the Herodian dynasty was of Idumean descent, tracing its lineage to Esau rather than Jacob. The Idumeans were forcibly converted to Judaism between 135–104 BC. While this history granted the Herods a claim to Jewish identity, their foreign lineage and collaboration with Rome made them unpopular with many Jews. Herod Antipas, like his father, prioritized political cunning and personal ambition over genuine adherence to Jewish law.When John the Baptist emerged on the scene, he proclaimed his message with fearless conviction. His central call was one of repentance and baptism for the forgiveness of sins, urging the people to prepare for the coming of the Messiah. Yet John did not shy away from addressing the moral and spiritual corruption of his time. He famously denounced the Pharisees and Sadducees as a “brood of vipers,” rebuking their hypocrisy and lack of genuine repentance. John also boldly condemned Herod Antipas for violating Jewish law by divorcing his wife and marrying Herodias, the wife of his half-brother, Philip. This marriage not only violated Mosaic Law but also reflected Herod's ambitions to consolidate power and status. John's fearless denunciation of sin, even among the powerful, ultimately led to his arrest and eventual martyrdom.This historical context surrounding John's arrest is crucial because it helps us understand God's providence—how He permits certain evils to occur in order to bring about a greater good. Jesus Himself later affirmed John's greatness, saying, “Among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist” (Matthew 11:11). If the Son of God declared John's greatness shortly after John's arrest, why didn't God miraculously free him from persecution? The answer lies in John's mission. He had fulfilled his primary role: preparing the way for the Lord, the “Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). Once John's mission was complete, God permitted him to seal his testimony with his own blood, offering his life as a martyr for the Lord and for the Truth that sets all people free.Reflect today on John's arrest and consider how you might have reacted if you had been one of his disciples. From an earthly perspective, martyrdom is difficult to comprehend or accept, especially in our own lives or in the lives of those we love. Though John's arrest and subsequent martyrdom likely brought fear and grief to his disciples, shaking their sense of security, from an eternal perspective, John's martyrdom was his greatest act of witness. It fulfilled his mission by pointing his disciples—and all of us—toward the true Prophet and Messiah, Jesus Christ. John is forever glorified in Heaven, and in the end, that is all that truly matters. As we honor John's unwavering faith, seek to embrace God's permissive will in your own life. Even in the face of suffering or evil, trust that God, in His providence, can bring about a greater good if we surrender ourselves fully to Him.My provident and loving God, You permit evil to touch the lives of Your faithful followers, knowing that in Your perfect Wisdom, You can bring forth a greater good. Grant me the heart of a martyr, filled with courage and trust, whenever I face injustice in my life. Help me to unite my every trial to Yours, in imitation of Saint John the Baptist and Your own Passion and Death. Jesus, I trust in You.ImageSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Sorry for questionable audio.In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of the region of Ituraea and Trachonitis, and Lysanias tetrarch of Abilene, 2 during the high priesthood of Annas and Caiaphas, the word of God came to John the son of Zechariah in the wilderness. 3 And he went into all the region around the Jordan, proclaiming a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. 4 As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet,“The voice of one crying in the wilderness:‘Prepare the way of the Lord,[a]    make his paths straight.5 Every valley shall be filled,    and every mountain and hill shall be made low,and the crooked shall become straight,    and the rough places shall become level ways,6 and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'”7 He said therefore to the crowds that came out to be baptized by him, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8 Bear fruits in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.' For I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. 9 Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”10 And the crowds asked him, “What then shall we do?” 11 And he answered them, “Whoever has two tunics[b] is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise.” 12 Tax collectors also came to be baptized and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13 And he said to them, “Collect no more than you are authorized to do.” 14 Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what shall we do?” And he said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or by false accusation, and be content with your wages.”15 As the people were in expectation, and all were questioning in their hearts concerning John, whether he might be the Christ, 16 John answered them all, saying, “I baptize you with water, but he who is mightier than I is coming, the strap of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. 17 His winnowing fork is in his hand, to clear his threshing floor and to gather the wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”18 So with many other exhortations he preached good news to the people. 19 But Herod the tetrarch, who had been reproved by him for Herodias, his brother's wife, and for all the evil things that Herod had done, 20 added this to them all, that he locked up John in prison.

Saturday, 15 November 2025   Then his disciples came and took away the body and buried it, and went and told Jesus. Matthew 14:12   “And his disciples, having come, they lifted the body and they interred it. And having come, they told Jesus” (CG).   In the previous verse, John's head was brought to Herodias' daughter on a platter. From there, she took it to her mother. With that noted, it next says, “And his disciples.”   This refers not to Jesus' disciples but John's. They probably tended to John while in prison, such as bringing him meals, stopping by to talk, and so forth. Upon going to the prison to attend to him, someone would have let them know that John had been beheaded. With that understood, it next says, “having come, they lifted the body and they interred it.”   A new word, ptóma, is seen here. It is derived from piptó, to fall. It signifies a ruin, but specifically a lifeless body, meaning a corpse, carrion, etc. The disciples determined to ensure that John's body was treated with dignity after the sad treatment he had received at the hands of Herod.   As for its disposal, almost all translations say “buried” here, but this is not the way bodies were handled in Israel at the time. Rather, they were placed in tombs to decay. Normally, after some amount of time, the bones would be collected and placed in ossuaries, or they would be stored in a single section of a tomb. This is what probably would have been the case with John's body as well. Once John's body was interred, it says, “And having come, they told Jesus.”   This would be the natural extension of such a series of events. What seems likely, although unstated, is that these disciples would henceforth follow Jesus. If so, the death of John would have immediately changed the course of their lives in more than one way.   Life application: It is quite often the case that at some point after a tragedy, death, or catastrophe, something good will result. At the time of the event, things seem overwhelming, and sadness or grief may take hold of us for a spell. Eventually, however, when our minds have adjusted and our lives have settled, we can look back and process the unfolding of events.   When we do, we can often see how what seemed a one-way street of woe was actually a path that turned onto another road of opportunity for joy and a new direction in life. However, some people never accept this and stay wallowing in their misery, blaming God for the events that brought them so much grief.   But this is God's world, we are His creatures, and He has a right to choose the events of our lives. Instead of holding things against Him, we should take time to evaluate what has taken place and how it fits into the greater picture of our continued existence.   When we do, we will be able to see how things brought us into a new dynamic with new hopes and possibilities. So, let us take the time to grieve, but not to get stuck there. Rather, as Solomon noted, there is a time for everything. And as the author of Lamentations notes, the compassions of the Lord are new every morning.   Wait for time to heal the wounds of life, and look for the hand of the Lord to be with you each day as He sends His gracious favor to you in the process. You will find out that this is how He works in the lives of His people.   Lord God, thank You for Your tender mercies. There is trial, trouble, tribulation, and catastrophe in this life, but there are still wonderful blessings that come to us, even in such times. May we focus our minds on You, even as we struggle through this life. Surely, when we do, things will always make sense as we continue through our walk on the path to You. Amen.

Friday, 14 November 2025   And his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. Matthew 14:11   “And his head, it was carried upon a platter, and it was given to the damsel, and she carried to her mother” (CG).   In the previous verse, it was noted that Herod sent and he beheaded John in prison. It next says, “And his head, it was borne upon a platter.”   The word pheró, to bear, is introduced here. HELPS Word Studies says, “properly, to bear, carry (bring) along, especially temporarily or to a definite (prescribed) conclusion (defined by the individual context).”   Once John was beheaded, it was placed upon a platter, being carried to its now rightful owner according to the oath made by Herod. It next says, “and it was given to the damsel.”   Something new concerning Herodias' daughter is seen here. She is called a damsel, a little girl. It explains why she went to her mother (as recorded in Mark) to determine what she should ask for when the oath and offer were extended to her by Herod.   From the prison where John was beheaded, it was borne by an attendant and taken to Herodias' daughter. She was the one who had pleased Herod in the dance and to whom the promise was made. Therefore, the burden of carrying it to its final destination was accomplished by her. As it says, “and she bore to her mother.”   Nothing beyond this is recorded concerning what happened to the head. Some extra-biblical comments about it have been made, but the Bible itself is silent on the matter.   Life application: In the story of the life of King David, the account of David encountering Goliath on the battlefield is recorded. There it says –   “So it was, when the Philistine arose and came and drew near to meet David, that David hurried and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine. 49 Then David put his hand in his bag and took out a stone; and he slung it and struck the Philistine in his forehead, so that the stone sank into his forehead, and he fell on his face to the earth. 50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. But there was no sword in the hand of David. 51 Therefore David ran and stood over the Philistine, took his sword and drew it out of its sheath and killed him, and cut off his head with it.” 1 Samuel 17:48-51   A bit later, it says, “And David took the head of the Philistine and brought it to Jerusalem, but he put his armor in his tent” (1 Samuel 17:54).   To understand the significance of what occurred in that account, sermons from the Superior Word detail the events and their typological significance in detail. One thing that can be deduced about the beheading of John is connected to that account concerning Goliath.   Everything about the law is associated with death. God gave Adam a law in the Garden of Eden. Adam violated that law, and it brought about his death (Genesis 2:17), and it also brought about death in humanity (Romans 5:12). Even Jesus, who was under the Law of Moses, died in fulfillment of it. It was a necessary death for grace to be bestowed.   John the Immerser was the final prophet under the law. He was the herald of the coming of Christ. As such, he was destined to die as an example of the law's power of death over life. Only in coming to Christ's completed work is the matter reversed, and life, meaning life in Christ, prevails over death.   As terrible as the account concerning John the Baptist is, we are being instructed in the difference set forth between Adam's failure and Christ's victory. This includes the death of John, who proclaimed law to the world.   The law had to come to an end for grace to be bestowed. John is the one who brought it to that point. Jesus is the One who then acted, completing the task and offering something far more glorious to the people of the world. Let us never forget the lesson of law vs. grace. Hold fast to the grace of God as it is revealed in the Person and work of Jesus Christ, our Lord.   Lord God, in the end, it is all about what You are doing in Christ Jesus for the people of the world. Help us to remember this and to hold fast to this truth. We don't need more law! What we need is grace. Thank You for the grace offered through His completed work. Amen.

Thursday, 13 November 2025   So he sent and had John beheaded in prison. Matthew 14:10   “And, having sent, he beheaded John in the prison” (CG).   In the previous verse, despite being grieved, Herod commanded that what Herodias' daughter asked for was to be given to her. Because of that, it next says, “And, having sent, he beheaded John in the prison.”   The word apokephalizó, to decapitate or behead, is first seen here. It is from apo, from or away, and kephalé, head. The meaning is clear. A separation between the body and the head is realized.   Of this word, it is in the third person singular. The action, though carried out by an executioner, is laid at the feet of Herod: “he beheaded.” It cannot be thought that the word is referring to the executioner, because none is identified in the previous words, even if one is implied. The nearest antecedent, being Herod, places him as the responsible agent for John's death.   There is a dispute concerning where the execution took place. If Herod was in one location and the prison in another, then there would be a day or two separation between the beheading and its presentation to Herodias' daughter.   It could also be that this birthday party took place in the location where the prison was. In reality, it doesn't matter. The narrative ties the event of John's beheading to the request of the daughter. The dance took place, the oaths were made, the request to fulfill the oath was stated, and the king ordered the beheading.   If the Bible wanted us to know the other details, it would have included them. However, the fact that the execution took place immediately after the request is what the narrative is concerned with.   Life application: There is often as much to learn from what is not stated in Scripture as what is. When details are specifically left out, we can know that they were omitted for a reason.   For example, if there is a narrative about a particular person, and it notes that he went to seven different named locations, and then he had various things occur at a particular place, but the name of that place is never given, it means that the name is left out to not mar the typology that is being presented.   This happens quite often. A list of people is mentioned, and their names are given. However, another person who is mentioned many times, such as a servant or a friend, is never identified beyond his position. We have no idea what his name is, despite being mentioned repeatedly.   Pay attention to such things. Information is being conveyed within stories and the record of particular events. Each name or description provides some sort of detail that God is using to continue His typological and pictorial presentations for us to learn other truths from.   Nothing is superfluous in the word of God. It all has bearing on what He is doing. Looking to discern His intent will allow us to understand why odd or obscure stories have been selected from history and included in His word.   In the end, it is all pointing to Jesus and what occurs in relation to Him in the greater context of redemptive history.   Lord God, thank You for the intricacy and incredible depth of Your word. The smallest child can pick it up and find You and the key to eternal salvation and fellowship with You. And yet, the greatest scholar can pick it up and find something to challenge him to the point of mental fatigue as he struggles to plumb the depths of Your word. What a treasure it is! Amen.  

Wednesday, 12 November 2025   And the king was sorry; nevertheless, because of the oaths and because of those who sat with him, he commanded it to be given to her. Matthew 14:9   “And grieved, the king, but through the oaths and those co-reclining, he commanded it given” (CG).   In the previous verse, Herodias' daughter made her petition to Herod to give her the head of John the Immerser on a platter. In response, Matthew records, “And grieved, the king.”   A new word is seen, lupeó. It signifies distress. Reflexively, it thus signifies to be sad or grieved. In his impulsiveness, Herod opened his mouth without thinking. It has now cost him because he failed to consider that this girl might first go to her mother and seek her advice. In doing so, the mother would know exactly how far she could go without stepping over a line that was not to be crossed.   It is true that Herodias' advice would put Herod in a personal bind, but it was not something that he would refuse to grant. As such, Herod grieved that he had been outsmarted in the matter of John, something that had probably already come up between him and his wife previously. Despite the uncomfortable request, Matthew next says, “but through the oaths.”   The plural, oaths, goes back to verse 14:7 where it said, “with an oath he assented.” He made an oath and then restated it as a binding surety that he was being sincere. When such a proclamation is made, it would show a lack of character to withdraw the offer, thus breaking the vow stated with such adamancy. Along with his oath was the added embarrassing note, saying, “and those co-reclining.”   Not only had Herod made a vow and then assented to it, but he had done so in the presence of others. For him to withdraw his words, even after such a request, would mean that when these men spoke to him in the future, they would always wonder if his words would match his actions.   The girl's request was exceedingly embarrassing, but not impossible to grant, petition. Therefore, “he commanded it given.”   Herod, maybe laughing as a disguise for his horror, ordered his men to have John's head removed and brought forward. Not only would this be a trying evening for him personally, but it would be an event that would bring him notoriety and shame in the eyes of those who heard about it. It would also add a gruesome sight for those who were in attendance to remember and consider when invited to dinner with the king in the future.   Life application: Despite all of the gore to be seen on TV and in movies, and even in the news to some extent, seeing a dead person close up for the first time is always a shocking event.   One of the common things seen inside a mortuary when a first-time visitor is brought in is for the person to stop, step backwards, and place his hand over his mouth. There is a sense of mental horror that a dead person is really right there in front of his eyes. This isn't just a Hollywood movie or a prop in play, but a human being who is no longer alive.   Stepping back is a mentally horrified reaction that death somehow can be avoided if enough distance is put between the person and the corpse. And the hand over the mouth usually occurs because people somehow equate death to an influence that actually permeates the air. Covering the mouth and nose is not based on a reaction to smell, but the presence of death itself, as if it can be breathed in.   Imagine being at the banqueting hall of royalty and seeing the platter with John the Immerser's head on it. If it was covered with linen, the mind could escape the truth of what was under it. However, with the linen removed, anyone who had never seen a dead person in closed quarters would probably react as those first-time visitors who enter a morgue will react.   When looking at a dead person, we can remember that the person lying there is dead for a reason. Ultimately, it is because of the results of sin. Now consider those who saw Jesus when He died. His body was removed from the cross, and He was carried away to be interred.   Those in attendance, if they understood theology, would know that sin caused Jesus' death. What they would not know is that it wasn't His sin that did so. However, an astute person standing by the tomb on the third day, seeing Jesus alive and well a well, would be able to theologically process the information. Jesus died because of sin. Jesus rose again. Therefore, Jesus must not have had any sin.   But if the wages of sin is death, then how could Jesus have died in the first place? If that person understood the Scriptures, had heard the words of Jesus during His ministry, and considered the true role of the coming Messiah, he would be able to say, “I get it!”   Jesus Christ really died, He was truly interred in the tomb, and He truly rose again. The magnitude of what Jesus did is the highlight of all human existence since the creation of man. From time to time, we must stop and consider what God in Christ has done for us. The lifeless body of Jesus signifies the removal of our sin. The resurrection of Jesus proves to us that it is so and that it is permanent. Thanks be to God for Jesus Christ our Lord.   “And when he has made an end of atoning for the Holy Place, the tabernacle of meeting, and the altar, he shall bring the live goat. 21 Aaron shall lay both his hands on the head of the live goat, confess over it all the iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions, concerning all their sins, putting them on the head of the goat, and shall send it away into the wilderness by the hand of a suitable man. 22 The goat shall bear on itself all their iniquities to an uninhabited land; and he shall release the goat in the wilderness.” Leviticus 16:20-22   Lord God, thank You for the death, internment, and resurrection of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Tuesday, 11 November 2025   So she, having been prompted by her mother, said, “Give me John the Baptist's head here on a platter.” Matthew 14:8   “And having been instigated by her mother, she says, ‘You give me here upon a platter the head of John the Immerser'” (CG).   In the previous verse, Herod offered by oath whatever Herodias' daughter asked for. With his offer made, it next says, “And having been instigated by her mother.”   A new word, found only here in the New Testament, is seen, probibazó, to instigate. It is derived from pro, before, and biazó, to force. Thus, it is to force forward, hence, to instigate as one prods another to take a certain action.   Mark 6:24 fills in the detail left out by Matthew, saying, “So she went out and said to her mother, ‘What shall I ask?'” Her response, still in Mark 6:24, was, “The head of John the ‘Immersing'!” That is then explained by Matthew with his continued words, where “she says, ‘You give me here upon a platter the head of John the Immerser.'”   Another new word is seen, pinax, a platter. It is a variant form of plax, a molding board, meaning a flat surface. Going along with her mother's instigation, the young lady requests the immediate execution of John, seen in the word “here,” with his head presented to her.   It is a rather gross request, but young ladies will be young ladies, and she was obedient to her mother's instigation. Thus, the request was set before Herod in regard to her mother's desire.   Life application: As tragic as John's beheading was, the fact that he would die before Jesus has already been hinted at. In John 11:11, Jesus said, “Amen! I say to you, not he has risen in ‘born of women' greater than John the Immerser, but the least in the kingdom of the heavens, he is greater than he.”   If John were to have survived until after Jesus' death, he would have certainly believed the good news of the resurrection and been a part of the church age. Therefore, John's death had already been factored into things as they unfolded.   Despite this, there is a hope for those who died in faith in the promises of God. In Daniel 12, it says –   “At that time Michael shall stand up, The great prince who stands watch over the sons of your people; And there shall be a time of trouble, Such as never was since there was a nation, Even to that time. And at that time your people shall be delivered, Every one who is found written in the book. 2 And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, Some to everlasting life, Some to shame and everlasting contempt. 3 Those who are wise shall shine Like the brightness of the firmament, And those who turn many to righteousness Like the stars forever and ever.” Daniel 12:1-3   After the church age, the world will enter into the tribulation. It will be a terrible time on earth, but once that is over, those who were of faith will be raised to eternal life. This included Daniel, as stated to him in Daniel 12:13. As such, it is certain it will be inclusive of all who died before the coming of Jesus who were people of faith, including John the Immerser.   We don't need to worry that God's plan is out of control, and we do not need to fret over comments by people who claim God is somehow unfair or uncaring when they make negative comments over things, like John's beheading, as if it demonstrates God is not good.   This life is temporary, and unless the Lord comes first at the rapture, we are all going to die. It really doesn't matter how that occurs. Once you are dead, that's it. As we are told in John 6:33, the flesh profits nothing. What matters is what we do with this life now.   Be sure to focus on Jesus, trust Him even in the most difficult of times or circumstances, and trust His word. In the end, good things are in store for those who do so.   Lord God, thank You for the promises set forth in Your word for us. We are undeserving of the least of Your mercies, and yet, You have promised us that great things are in store for Your people. Help us to focus on this as we walk in this world of troubles, trials, and wickedness that hem us in. Amen.

Monday, 10 November 2025   Therefore he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. Matthew 14:7   “Whence with an oath He assented to give her what if she should ask” (CG).   In the previous verse, it was noted that Herod had a birthday celebration and that Herodias' daughter danced for him, pleasing him. Matthew continues the narrative, saying, “Whence with an oath He assented to give her what if she should ask.”   The word that confirms the oath is homologeó, to assent. It signifies “to voice the same conclusion” (HELPS Word Studies). What is probably intended is affirming a matter by repeating it, a common Hebrew form of speaking, such as, “I vow with a vow to do this thing,” or “Vowing with a vow, he confirmed his word.” In this case, the repetition is seen in the exchange as recorded in lengthier statements in Mark 6 –   “And when Herodias' daughter herself came in and danced, and pleased Herod and those who sat with him, the king said to the girl, ‘Ask me whatever you want, and I will give it to you.' 23 He also swore to her, ‘Whatever you ask me, I will give you, up to half my kingdom.'”   Herod was enamored with the girl's dancing and wanted to reward her for it publicly, something that would demonstrate his magnanimity to those around him. When assenting to his oath, he binds himself to whatever she asks. It is not a wise way of engaging in gift giving. However, being the king, the one who is offered something with such an oath would not be expected to abuse the request, thus eliciting the disfavor of the king.   Life application: In Scripture, people are seen to make vows that can be taken as rash and unwise. A glaring example of this is found in Judges 11 –   Then the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jephthah, and he passed through Gilead and Manasseh, and passed through Mizpah of Gilead; and from Mizpah of Gilead he advanced toward the people of Ammon. 30 And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord, and said, “If You will indeed deliver the people of Ammon into my hands, 31 then it will be that whatever comes out of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the people of Ammon, shall surely be the Lord's, and I will offer it up as a burnt offering.” 32 So Jephthah advanced toward the people of Ammon to fight against them, and the Lord delivered them into his hands. 33 And he defeated them from Aroer as far as Minnith—twenty cities—and to Abel Keramim, with a very great slaughter. Thus the people of Ammon were subdued before the children of Israel. 34 When Jephthah came to his house at Mizpah, there was his daughter, coming out to meet him with timbrels and dancing; and she was his only child. Besides her he had neither son nor daughter. 35 And it came to pass, when he saw her, that he tore his clothes, and said, “Alas, my daughter! You have brought me very low! You are among those who trouble me! For I have given my word to the Lord, and I cannot go back on it.”   Jephthah made a vow that, unfortunately, cost him the life of his daughter. He understood that despite the consequences of his vow, it was one made to the Lord, and it had to be fulfilled. The reason for this story being included in Scripture is to make a point about what God is doing in redemptive history concerning salvation and His favor or rejection of a particular people group.   To understand what is going on in that passage, you can refer to the Superior Word sermons on Judges 11. As for our words today, a point made by Jesus and which is repeated by both Paul and James is that when we speak, we are to refrain from making vows concerning such matters.   Instead, we are to let our Yes be Yes and our No be No. In other words, when we say we are going to do or not do something, our integrity should be so accepted by others that they know we will perform our word. Additional vows and oaths are unnecessary and will detract from what the Lord expects of us.   This does not mean that we are not to make any oath at all. In society, we must swear oaths in court, on legal documents (with our signature, for example), etc. But when speaking, we should refrain from people thinking there is any necessity to go beyond a simply stated affirmation concerning our intent.   Lord God, help us to be people of integrity where others can trust our words, taking them at face value. Help us to remember that when we speak, You are being evaluated through the performance and accomplishment of what we say. Help us to remember this and follow through, to Your glory. Amen.

Mark 8:14-21 (ESV)Andrew and Edwin discuss the apostles' misunderstanding of Jesus's leaven parable and what the leaven of the Pharisees and Herodians is.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=23246The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

Mark 6:14-29 (ESV)Andrew, Isack, and Edwin discuss the execution of John the Baptist.Read the written devo that goes along with this episode by clicking here.    Let us know what you are learning or any questions you have. Email us at TextTalk@ChristiansMeetHere.org.    Join the Facebook community and join the conversation by clicking here. We'd love to meet you. Be a guest among the Christians who meet on Livingston Avenue. Click here to find out more. Michael Eldridge sang all four parts of our theme song. Find more from him by clicking here.   Thanks for talking about the text with us today.________________________________________________If the hyperlinks do not work, copy the following addresses and paste them into the URL bar of your web browser: Daily Written Devo: https://readthebiblemakedisciples.wordpress.com/?p=23108The Christians Who Meet on Livingston Avenue: http://www.christiansmeethere.org/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TalkAboutTheTextFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/texttalkMichael Eldridge: https://acapeldridge.com/ 

Today's Topics: 1) Gospel - Mark 6:17-29 - Herod was the one who had John the Baptist arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. She had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. Herodias' own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you.” He even swore many things to her, “I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” She replied, “The head of John the Baptist.” The girl hurried back to the king's presence and made her request, “I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. Memorial of the Passion of Saint John the Baptist Saint John, pray for us! Bishop Sheen quote of the day 2, 3, 4) Steve Ray joins Terry to discuss the importance of the gift of children and the over-importance some childless couples give to their pets

Gospel Mark 6:17-29 Herod was the one who had John the Baptist arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him. She had an opportunity one day when Herod, on his birthday, gave a banquet for his courtiers, his military officers, and the leading men of Galilee. Herodias' own daughter came in and performed a dance that delighted Herod and his guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask of me whatever you wish and I will grant it to you.” He even swore many things to her, “I will grant you whatever you ask of me, even to half of my kingdom.” She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” She replied, “The head of John the Baptist.” The girl hurried back to the king's presence and made her request, “I want you to give me at once on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” The king was deeply distressed, but because of his oaths and the guests he did not wish to break his word to her. So he promptly dispatched an executioner with orders to bring back his head. He went off and beheaded him in the prison. He brought in the head on a platter and gave it to the girl. The girl in turn gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. Reflection It's always perplexed me about the death of John the Baptist. He was the greatest prophet. He was the forerunner of Jesus. He presented Jesus to the world. He had such an important role, and yet he dies at night in a prison with no one around. And it's caused by a bizarre promise made by an intoxicated king. How do we read that? It strikes me that John had always placed Christ so far above him, and he knew the difference. And it seems proper in a way that when you look at the death of Jesus in the death of John the Baptist, they couldn't be further apart. And that seems proper. And in the humility of John the Baptist, it seems appropriate. Closing Prayer Father, help us to have the humility of John the Baptist. Help us to recognize that we are not the Messiah, and that anything we do through him, with him, for him, is a gift to us. It's not about us, not about our greatness, not about our holiness. It's about surrendering to the story, and the story is Jesus. We ask this in Jesus' name, Amen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Read OnlineHerod was the one who had John the Baptist arrested and bound in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, whom he had married. John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” Herodias harbored a grudge against him and wanted to kill him but was unable to do so. Mark 6:17–19The suffering and death of Saint John the Baptist greatly parallels the suffering and death of Jesus. They were cousins. John was one of the first to acknowledge the divine presence of our Lord when he leaped for joy in the womb of his mother during the Visitation of Mary to Elizabeth. John lived a holy and simple life, embracing His mission to prepare the way for the Lord. He was the last and greatest of the Old Testament prophets. Of him, Jesus said that there was no one born of woman who was greater than John. For these reasons, we should not be the least bit surprised that John's suffering and death parallelled and prefigured the death of the Savior of the World.Herod was fearful of John, believing him to be a holy man of God. He imprisoned him with a certain regret, knowing that he was innocent. Similarly, before Pilate condemned Jesus to death, he found Him not guilty of any crime. Pilate knew Jesus was innocent but allowed fear to direct his choice to condemn our Lord.John was ultimately killed because of the hatred and plotting of Herodias, the unlawful wife of Herod. It was Herodias' anger that became a weapon, forcing Herod to put John to death. Similarly, it was the jealousy and anger of the religious leaders at that time that instigated and drove the death of Jesus. Pilate, like Herod, was at first unwilling to condemn our Lord. But the relentless hatred of the scribes and Pharisees compelled Pilate to condemn Jesus, just as it was Herodias' hatred that compelled Herod to kill John.After John's death, some of his disciples came to carry his body away for burial. This was permitted by Herod, perhaps because of his feelings of guilt. So also with our Lord, Pilate permitted some disciples and the holy women to carry Jesus' dead body to the tomb for burial.In the end, the good fruit of Jesus' death infinitely overshadowed the crime that was committed against Him. So also with John. We can be certain that, as a martyr, the blood he shed as a witness to Christ bore spiritual fruit that surpassed all he had done in his public ministry. Each of us is called to imitate our Lord and, therefore, should also take inspiration from Saint John the Baptist. They both were innocent but suffered greatly. They both spoke the truth, despite the hatred of some. They both gave their lives, in accord with the Father's plan. Jesus was John's Savior; John was but a precursor and servant of our Lord. Reflect, today, upon the invitation God has given to you to imitate the life of John the Baptist by uniting yourself to his Lord. The first form of imitation will take place when you commit yourself to the proclamation of the truth in accord with your mission. What mission has God given to you? How is He calling you to proclaim the Gospel with courage, strength, determination and fidelity to the end? Reflect, also, upon the injustice inflicted first upon John and then upon our Lord. As you do, try to look at any injustice you have received in life in the light of John's and Jesus' lives. They did not run away from injustice. They embraced it as a sacrifice and offered it to the Father in Heaven. Jesus' Sacrifice brought forth the Salvation of the World; John's was but a sharing in that glorious offering. Make your offering with them, and do not hesitate to do so with deep love and trust in the Father's plan. Most glorious Lord, You invited Saint John the Baptist to prepare the way for Your coming and Your death. He gave his life as a martyr, and this sacrifice bore an abundance of good fruit. Please give me the grace to walk in his footsteps by faithfully fulfilling my mission in life with courage and strength. May I never waver in the face of injustice so that I can embrace it and make it my spiritual offering to You. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image via Adobe StockSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.

Read OnlineHerod the tetrarch heard of the reputation of Jesus and said to his servants, “This man is John the Baptist. He has been raised from the dead; that is why mighty powers are at work in him.” Matthew 14:1–2Herod the tetrarch was one of three brothers and a sister who became 1st-century rulers to succeed their father, Herod the Great, when he died in 4 B.C. Herod governed much of the territory west of the Sea of Galilee, which was the territory in which Jesus spent most of His time during His public ministry. He also ruled a territory just east of the Dead Sea, which is where he had imprisoned and ultimately killed John the Baptist. Herod was known for being a very busy builder and is prominently known for his role in the deaths of Saint John the Baptist and Jesus.Recall that Herod had taken his brother's wife, Herodias, as his own, and John the Baptist publicly opposed this. For that reason, Herod had John arrested and ultimately beheaded at the request of Herodias, who took the Baptist's criticism very personally. Herod, on the other hand, had a strange sort of admiration for the Baptist.The Gospel passage quoted above reveals a somewhat unusual statement by Herod. After he had killed Saint John the Baptist, he heard about the reputation of Jesus Who was traveling throughout Herod's territory preaching and performing many mighty deeds. Word spread fast about Jesus and quickly reached even the ears of Herod. So why did Herod strangely think that Jesus must have been John the Baptist raised from the dead? Though we do not know for certain, we certainly can speculate.In the version of this story found in the Gospel of Mark, we read, “Herod feared John, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man, and kept him in custody. When he heard him speak he was very much perplexed, yet he liked to listen to him” (Mark 6:20). Herod may have been a man who had a spark of faith but was ultimately ruled by his passions and desire for power. Perhaps that is why he initially kept John the Baptist alive in his prison. It also appears that Herod had some form of either regret or fear over his beheading of John. And it is most likely for this reason that Herod immediately thought of John when he initially heard of Jesus and the “mighty powers” that were at work within Him. Regret, fear and guilt are common effects of a conscience that is in conflict. Herod the tetrarch is a good example of what happens when we do not resolve that conflict within ourselves. The only way to resolve the interior confusion of a conflicted conscience is to humbly submit to the truth. Imagine if Herod would have repented. Imagine if he would have sought out Jesus, confessed his sins, and begged for forgiveness. What a glorious story that would have been. Instead, we have the witness of a man who has gone astray and remained obstinate in his sin. Reflect, today, upon this unholy witness of Herod. God can use all things for His glory, and He can even use the example of Herod to reveal to ourselves any similar tendency. Do you struggle with regret, fear and guilt? Does this cause conflict within you? The good news is that this conflict is easily resolved by a humble heart that seeks the truth. Seek the truth by admitting any long-lasting sin you need to resolve and permit the mercy of God to enter in so as to set you free. My merciful Jesus, You desire that all people experience freedom from the sins of the past. You desire to penetrate our hearts and to bring resolution and peace. Please help me to open my mind and heart to You in the areas that still cause pain and regret, and help me to be set free by Your infinite mercy. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: James Tissot, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.