How should Christians respond to unjust actions, as seen in Mark 6:28? Setting the Scene “and brought his head on a platter and gave it to the girl, and the girl gave it to her mother.” (Mark 6:28) Herod’s grisly order ends the life of John the Baptist—an undeniably unjust act against a righteous servant of God. Scripture records it without softening the horror, reminding us that unjust actions are real and often shocking. Recognizing Injustice • John’s death was the result of political cowardice, personal vengeance, and public spectacle. • Scripture does not hide or excuse the wrong; it exposes it so we may learn how to respond when evil appears to triumph. Christ-like Responses to Injustice • Grieve honestly yet hopefully – The disciples “came and took his body and laid it in a tomb” (Mark 6:29). They acknowledge the loss without bitterness. • Trust God’s sovereignty – “Do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out wicked schemes” (Psalm 37:7-9). – God’s plan continued; John had “prepared the way” (Mark 1:2-3). • Refuse personal vengeance – “Do not repay anyone evil for evil… ‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord” (Romans 12:17-19). • Keep speaking truth – John died for confronting sin (Mark 6:18). Faithfulness to truth remains our calling, even when costly (Ephesians 4:15). • Love enemies and pray for them – “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you” (Luke 6:27-28). • Pursue good works that overcome evil – “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). • Endure suffering with Christ’s example in view – “When He was reviled, He did not retaliate” (1 Peter 2:21-23). Living It Out Today • Speak against injustice in calm, clear, biblical terms. • Support and comfort victims; practical mercy mirrors God’s heart (Micah 6:8). • Entrust outcomes to God through prayer and patient endurance. • Engage civic processes ethically, yet remember our ultimate citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20). Encouragement for the Journey • God vindicates His servants—if not immediately, then eternally (Revelation 6:9-11). • The apparent victory of evil is temporary; Christ will “judge the living and the dead” (2 Timothy 4:1). • Persevering under injustice refines faith and displays the gospel’s power (James 1:2-4). |
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