What does Mark 6:20 teach about recognizing truth even from unlikely sources? Setting the Scene Mark 6:20: “for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he listened to him gladly.” Key Observations from the Verse • Herod, a pagan ruler, recognized John’s righteousness and holiness. • He “protected” John despite political pressure. • Herod was “greatly perplexed” yet still “listened…gladly,” showing an internal struggle between conviction and rebellion. Truth Can Be Recognized by the Most Unlikely People • God’s Word carries inherent authority; even hostile hearts can sense it (cf. John 18:37). • Herod respected the messenger before he accepted the message. • The Spirit can prick consciences regardless of background or status (cf. Acts 24:25). Biblical Examples of Unlikely Acknowledgment • Pharaoh’s magicians: “This is the finger of God” (Exodus 8:19). • Balaam: a pagan diviner who spoke blessings over Israel (Numbers 24:5–9). • Cyrus: a Persian king called God’s “shepherd” to rebuild Jerusalem (Isaiah 44:28; 45:1). • The Magi from the East who sought the newborn King (Matthew 2:1–11). • Demons declaring Jesus the “Son of God” (Mark 3:11). • The Roman centurion at the cross: “Truly this man was the Son of God!” (Mark 15:39). Why God Allows Truth Through Unlikely Sources • To demonstrate His sovereignty over all people and circumstances (Daniel 4:17). • To humble the proud and confound human expectations (1 Corinthians 1:27–29). • To widen the witness of His truth beyond expected boundaries (Acts 10:34–35). Lessons for Today • Never dismiss a testimony simply because the speaker seems unlikely; evaluate it by Scripture. • God may use secular authorities, cultural critics, or unexpected voices to spotlight biblical truth. • A guilty conscience, like Herod’s, can recognize holiness without submitting to it—head nods must become heart surrender (James 1:22). A Cautionary Tale from Herod • Respecting the truth is not the same as obeying it. Herod eventually silenced the voice that troubled him (Mark 6:27). • Repeated resistance can deaden conviction (Hebrews 3:12–13). Living It Out • Stay alert to truth, wherever it surfaces, and test everything by the Word (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • When confronted with convicting truth, respond immediately in obedience, not mere fascination. • Encourage others who are sensing God’s voice—even if they hear it first through surprising avenues—to move from admiration to repentance and faith. |
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