How does Herod's fear of John connect to Proverbs 9:10 about wisdom? Setting the Scene • Herod Antipas had imprisoned John the Baptist for condemning his unlawful marriage (Mark 6:17–18). • In that tension-filled palace, the king who held power over John’s life was himself held by something stronger—a deep, unsettling respect for the prophet. Mark 6:20 – Herod’s Uneasy Conscience “Herod feared John and protected him, knowing he was a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly perplexed; yet he listened to him gladly.” • “Feared John” – not dread of harm from John, but an awe that recognized God’s hand on him. • “Protected him” – Herod’s reverence led to real action; he shielded John from Herodias. • “Greatly perplexed” – conviction battled with curiosity; truth pricked his conscience. • “Listened … gladly” – the same heart that trembled still hungered for the words of God’s messenger. Proverbs 9:10 – Wisdom’s Foundation “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” • Wisdom starts with recognizing God’s holiness and authority. • “Fear” combines reverence, awe, and a desire not to offend the Almighty (Psalm 111:10; Proverbs 1:7). • True insight flows not from intellect alone but from a humble heart before God. Connecting the Dots • Herod’s fear of John mirrors, in miniature, the “fear of the LORD” described in Proverbs 9:10. – John embodied God’s holiness; to fear John was indirectly to fear the God who sent him (Luke 1:17). • Herod tasted the first sip of wisdom—reverence—yet stopped short of full obedience. – Wisdom begins with fear, but it matures through repentance and righteous action (James 3:13,17). • The episode warns that experiencing reverence without surrender leaves a soul “perplexed,” not perfected (Acts 24:25). Lessons for Today • God often introduces wisdom by confronting us with holy lives or hard truths. • Reverence that never advances to repentance can be silenced by peer pressure, pleasure, or pride—as in Herod’s tragic feast (Mark 6:26-28). • Cultivating the fear of the Lord means: – Welcoming conviction (Hebrews 4:12). – Protecting what is righteous, even when costly (Proverbs 29:25). – Following through with obedience, letting fear blossom into full wisdom and life (Ecclesiastes 12:13). |
    |