A Heart Not True

King Herod heard of this (Jesus' disciples going throughout the land preaching), because Jesus' name had become well known. Some said, John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that's why supernatural powers are at work in him." But other said, "He's Elijah." Still others said, "He's a prophet- like one of the prophets." When Herod heard of it, he said, "John, the one I beheaded has been raised."

..Herod was in awe of John and was protecting him, knowing he was a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard from him he would be very  disturbed, but would hear from him gladly.

Mark 6:14-16;20

Herod was a weak man who took his brother's wife for himself. John had convicted Herod of his sin but he did not repent. Herodias, Herod's new wife hated John because of this and at an opportune time asked for John's head on a platter. Herod was asked publically and could not refuse.

It is odd that Herod thought John had be reincarnated in the form of Jesus. It is amazing what superstition does in a community.

What is interesting is the fact that Herod respected John and protected him, even though he had him in prison. Herod often had John come and preach to him, to no avail. Herod stayed a foolish, unrepentant man.

Ever had these type of people in your life? I have. Most frustrating! I am sure there would have been people like this in the crowd that followed Jesus. The apostle Paul had such a man, Felix.

The fact that they gladly listen is encouraging but again and again they go away unchanged. Herod was manipulated by the source of his sin, Herodias. Felix loved money and hoped Paul would pay him. Their hearts were not true to the truth, it merely challenged them but their hearts belonged to the flesh.

Jesus had no time for Herod, He knew him for what he was. Perhaps this is better than being flattered that an important person wants to hear you.