Topical Encyclopedia Herod Agrippa I, also known simply as Agrippa, was a significant figure in the early first century, known for his role as a ruler in Judea and his interactions with the early Christian church. He was the grandson of Herod the Great and the son of Aristobulus IV and Berenice. Agrippa's life and reign are documented in both historical texts and the New Testament, providing insight into his character and influence during a pivotal time in Judean history.Early Life and Rise to Power Born around 10 BC, Herod Agrippa I was raised in Rome, where he formed connections with influential Roman figures, including the future emperors Caligula and Claudius. These relationships proved advantageous, as they facilitated his rise to power. After a period of financial difficulty and political exile, Agrippa's fortunes changed dramatically when Caligula ascended to the throne in AD 37. Caligula appointed him as king over the territories of his uncle, Philip the Tetrarch, and later expanded his rule to include Judea and Samaria, effectively restoring the kingdom of his grandfather, Herod the Great. Reign and Policies Agrippa's reign, from AD 37 to 44, was marked by efforts to strengthen his kingdom and maintain favor with both the Roman authorities and his Jewish subjects. He was known for his piety and adherence to Jewish customs, which endeared him to the Jewish population. Agrippa's political acumen allowed him to navigate the complex dynamics between Rome and the Jewish people, maintaining a delicate balance of power. Interaction with the Early Church Herod Agrippa I is perhaps best known in the Christian tradition for his persecution of the early church, as recorded in the Book of Acts. In Acts 12:1-3 , it is written: "About that time, King Herod reached out to harm some who belonged to the church. He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. And seeing that this pleased the Jews, he proceeded to seize Peter during the Feast of Unleavened Bread." This passage highlights Agrippa's attempts to suppress the burgeoning Christian movement, which he perceived as a threat to Jewish religious and social order. Death and Legacy Herod Agrippa I's reign came to an abrupt end in AD 44. According to Acts 12:21-23 , during a public address, Agrippa was struck down by an angel of the Lord because he did not give glory to God, and he was "eaten by worms and died." This dramatic account underscores the biblical theme of divine retribution against those who oppose God's purposes. Agrippa's death marked a turning point in Judean history, as his son, Herod Agrippa II, was too young to assume the throne, leading to a period of direct Roman rule. Herod Agrippa I's legacy is a complex one, characterized by his political savvy and his role in the early persecution of Christians. His life serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly power and the ultimate sovereignty of God in the affairs of men. Nave's Topical Index Acts 12:1-23Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. Nave's Topical Index Library Herod the Tetrarch Makes War with Aretas, the King of Arabia, and ... After the Death of Tiberius, Caius Appointed Agrippa King of the ... Concerning the Government of Claudius, and the Reign of Agrippa. ... How Herod the Tetrarch was Banished. The Death of Salome. The Cities which Herod and Philip Built. ... About the Time of Christ, in Accordance with Prophecy, the Rulers ... The Foundation of the Church. How Antipater is Hated of all Men; and How the King Espouses the ... The Wars of the Jews or History of the Destruction of Jerusalem Nero Adds Four Cities to Agrippas Kingdom; but the Other Parts of ... Resources Who was Herod Antipas? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Herod the Great? | GotQuestions.org Who was Herod Agrippa I? | GotQuestions.org Herod: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Herod: King of Judah (Herod the Great) Herod: Son of Aristobulus (Herod Agrippa I) Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas) Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Beheads John the Baptist Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Desires to See Jesus Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Incest of Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Jesus Tried By Herod: Tetrarch of Galilee (Herod Antipas): Tyranny of Irony: Herod Agrippa Ii to Paul Sarcasm: Herod Agrippa Ii to Paul Related Terms |
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