Topical Bible: Jesus, the Christ: Arraigned Before Herod Antipas (In Jerusalem)

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In the narrative of the Passion of Jesus Christ, His arraignment before Herod Antipas stands as a significant episode, illustrating the fulfillment of prophecy and the unfolding of divine purpose. This event is recorded in the Gospel of Luke, providing insight into the political and spiritual dynamics at play during the final hours of Jesus' earthly ministry.

Context and Background

Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, was the son of Herod the Great. Known for his role in the execution of John the Baptist, Herod Antipas was a ruler who sought to maintain his power through political maneuvering and alliances with Roman authorities. His presence in Jerusalem during the Passover festival was likely due to the increased need for political oversight during this significant Jewish feast.

The Arraignment

Following His arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus was first brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish ruling council, where He was accused of blasphemy. However, since the Sanhedrin lacked the authority to execute capital punishment, Jesus was then taken to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor. Pilate, upon learning that Jesus was a Galilean, sent Him to Herod Antipas, who was in Jerusalem at the time, as Galilee fell under Herod's jurisdiction.

Herod's Curiosity and Mockery

Herod had long desired to see Jesus, having heard of His miracles and teachings. Luke 23:8 states, "When Herod saw Jesus, he was greatly pleased, because for a long time he had wanted to see Him. From what he had heard about Him, he hoped to see Him perform a sign." Herod's interest, however, was not rooted in genuine faith or repentance but rather in curiosity and entertainment.

Despite Herod's questioning, Jesus remained silent, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 53:7, which describes the Messiah as a lamb led to the slaughter, silent before His shearers. Herod, along with his soldiers, mocked Jesus, dressing Him in a splendid robe to ridicule His claim to kingship. This act of mockery was a profound irony, as it unwittingly acknowledged the true kingship of Christ, albeit in a spirit of derision.

Return to Pilate

Finding no basis for a charge against Jesus, Herod sent Him back to Pilate. Luke 23:11-12 notes, "Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked Him. Dressing Him in a fine robe, they sent Him back to Pilate. That day Herod and Pilate became friends; before this time they had been enemies." This newfound alliance between Herod and Pilate underscores the political expediency that often overshadowed justice in the Roman world.

Theological Significance

The arraignment before Herod Antipas highlights several key theological themes. Firstly, it demonstrates the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's suffering and rejection. Secondly, it reveals the hardness of human hearts, as both Herod and Pilate, despite recognizing Jesus' innocence, failed to act justly. Lastly, it underscores the sovereignty of God, who orchestrates even the actions of rulers to accomplish His redemptive plan.

In conclusion, Jesus' appearance before Herod Antipas serves as a poignant reminder of the world's rejection of Christ and the ultimate triumph of God's purposes through the suffering and resurrection of His Son. This episode invites believers to reflect on the nature of true kingship and the call to follow the One who, though mocked and scorned, reigns eternally as King of kings and Lord of lords.

Nave's Topical Index

Luke 23:6-12
When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean.
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