How does Mark 6:24 illustrate the consequences of ungodly counsel in decision-making? Setting the scene Mark 6:24: “She went out and said to her mother, ‘What should I ask for?’ And she answered, ‘The head of John the Baptist.’” Immediate observations • The daughter is uncertain and seeks advice. • Her first and only counselor is her mother, Herodias, who harbors a murderous grudge (Mark 6:19). • The counsel she receives is shockingly wicked—death on a platter. Why this counsel qualifies as “ungodly” • It violates the sixth commandment (Exodus 20:13). • It ignores Herod’s awareness that John is “a righteous and holy man” (Mark 6:20). • It springs from hatred, not justice (cf. 1 John 3:15). Ripple effects of one evil suggestion 1. Personal corruption – The daughter’s heart, previously neutral in the narrative, is drawn into her mother’s vendetta. 2. Public sin – The request forces Herod into a shameful, irreversible act before his guests (Mark 6:26-27). 3. Permanent loss – John the Baptist’s ministry is cut short; a godly voice is silenced (Proverbs 29:10). 4. Ongoing guilt – Herod later panics, thinking Jesus is John risen from the dead (Mark 6:14-16), showing a tormented conscience. Parallels in Scripture • Psalm 1:1—blessing withheld from those who “walk in the counsel of the wicked.” • Proverbs 13:20—“a companion of fools will be destroyed.” • 1 Corinthians 15:33—“Bad company corrupts good character.” • 2 Chronicles 10—Rehoboam listens to reckless peers, rupturing a kingdom. Traits of ungodly counsel to watch for • Rooted in personal vendetta, pride, or bitterness. • Disregards clear biblical commands. • Appeals to fleshly desires—revenge, status, instant gratification. • Ignores the fear of God and consequences for others. Safeguards for godly decision-making • Filter every suggestion through Scripture first (Psalm 119:105). • Seek multiple counselors who fear the Lord (Proverbs 11:14). • Examine motives—does the advice glorify God or gratify self? • Pray for wisdom (James 1:5) before acting. Key takeaway One request shaped by ungodly counsel can unleash devastation far beyond the moment. Mark 6:24 stands as a sobering reminder: whose voice we heed today determines the fruit—or fallout—we harvest tomorrow. |
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