Matthew 14:1-11 At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus,… I. HEROD IN HIS FIRST ACT MOVES TOO LATE. Herod imprisoned John, intending a crushing blow against the good cause; but it was ineffectual. He was powerless to hinder John's work. That work was done, and not to be undone. His influence was already abroad in the air. His words were pricking the hearts of thousands. Herod could not arrest this, any more than he could lock up the atmosphere within prison bars. II. Even if Herod could have stopped the revolution HE HAD SEIZED THE WRONG MAN. John had passed over the leadership to his chief. The Messiah was spreading His truth in the villages, to the northward, out of reach. III. In bringing John to his castle to confront his royal authority, he only gives the fearless prophet A CHANCE TO COME TO CLOSE QUARTERS WITH HIM. The ruler furnished a great opportunity to God's prophet and he took it. IV. INCONTINENT DEPRAVITY REELS THROUGH REVELRY TO BLOOD-GUILTINESS. Poor and comfortless is evil's triumph. (W. V. Kelley.) Parallel Verses KJV: At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus,WEB: At that time, Herod the tetrarch heard the report concerning Jesus, |
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