How can we emulate Herod's respect for John in our daily interactions? The Snapshot in Mark 6:20 “for Herod feared John and protected him, knowing he was a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard him, he was greatly perplexed, yet he listened to him gladly.” What Herod Did Right • Acknowledged John’s righteousness and holiness • Actively protected John when others wanted him silenced • Gave John his ear, even when the message stretched him • Found genuine pleasure in hearing truth proclaimed Why This Matters Today • Scripture’s literal record shows that even a flawed ruler could recognize God’s voice through His servant • If Herod, with limited spiritual light, could value a prophet, believers who know Christ have even greater reason to show honor toward God’s messengers and God’s truth • Respectful listening opens the door for conviction, growth, and, ultimately, obedience Practical Ways to Emulate This Respect 1. Esteem godly character – Speak well of those who walk uprightly (Proverbs 27:2) – Guard their reputation when others criticize 2. Offer protection and support – Stand with persecuted believers (Hebrews 13:3) – Use influence to provide resources, platforms, and encouragement 3. Cultivate a teachable spirit – Sit under sound preaching without defensiveness (James 1:19) – Take notes, revisit the message, and act on it 4. Welcome convicting truth – Invite accountability from mature Christians (Proverbs 27:6) – Let challenging words refine attitudes and choices 5. Delight in hearing God’s word – Prioritize corporate worship and personal study (Psalm 119:97) – Celebrate fresh insights rather than chasing novelty 6. Guard against fickle follow-through – Unlike Herod’s later capitulation, resolve to obey what you hear (James 1:22) – Pray over specific steps and share them with a trusted friend for accountability Supporting Passages That Echo the Theme • Proverbs 9:8-9—“Correct a wise man and he will love you.” • Proverbs 15:31—“He whose ear listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.” • Acts 10:33—Cornelius: “So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us.” • Hebrews 13:17—“Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they keep watch over your souls.” • 1 Peter 2:17—“Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king.” Living It Out • Each morning, identify one righteous voice you will intentionally listen to that day—through a sermon, podcast, or conversation. • During discussions, resist the urge to interrupt; instead, paraphrase what you heard to show value. • When gossip surfaces about a faithful believer, redirect the talk or speak a word of defense. • Set calendar reminders to pray for and encourage pastors, missionaries, and mentors. Final Takeaway Herod respected John without fully surrendering to God’s authority—an unfinished example. By pairing his initial respect with wholehearted obedience, believers can model an even richer, Christ-honoring response to the righteous voices God places in their path. |
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