Passage: Matthew 14:1-12
Points:
1. John the Baptist was arrested by Herod because of his strong words regarding Herod’s relationship with Herodias, his brother’s wife.
2. Herod wanted to kill John the Baptist, but was afraid of the people’s reactions.
3. Because of Herod’s oath to Herodias’ daughter, John the Baptist was beheaded.
Personalize
Righteous words will not always be accepted by the hearer. John the Baptist had challenged the relationship between Herod and Herodias, his brother’s wife. These words were not accepted and Herodias, along with Herod sought ways to silence the bearer of righteousness. The reward of the prophet was persecution. Because of John’s message, he was imprisoned and then beheaded. Following the path of righteousness is not always the easy path. In the same way, our unpopular words will not always be accepted by others.
John the Baptist demonstrated he was more concerned for God’s message than the opinion of men, even Herod. He did not fear what men could do to him, he was focused on delivering the message God wanted him to share. When faced with decisions, will we shriek at the opposition of others or will we obediently deliver the message we have been called to speak? May we have a strong resolve to remain faithful, even in difficult circumstances.
Prayer
Lord may we never be “man-fearing”. As we seek to live a life of holiness and in right relationship with you, may we never step down from our responsibility to speak your words of wisdom and righteousness. Even in the threat of persecution, may we remain faithful to speak “unpopular words”.
