Mark 6:16

But when Herod heard this, he said, "John, whom I beheaded, has risen from the dead!"

Study Bible

But when Herod heard this
The phrase "But when Herod heard this" introduces us to Herod Antipas, the tetrarch of Galilee and Perea. Herod was a ruler under Roman authority, known for his political cunning and moral weakness. The context here is Herod's reaction to the news of Jesus' miraculous works and growing reputation. Historically, Herod was a complex figure, often torn between his Jewish identity and Roman allegiance. This phrase sets the stage for Herod's internal conflict and fear, as he grapples with the implications of Jesus' ministry.

he said
The words "he said" indicate Herod's verbal response, which reveals his inner turmoil and guilt. In the Greek, the verb used here is "eipen," which is a simple past tense, suggesting a definitive statement. Herod's declaration is not just a passing thought but a conviction that reflects his troubled conscience. This moment captures the power of spoken words to reveal the heart's condition, as Herod's fear and guilt over John the Baptist's execution come to the forefront.

John, whom I beheaded
"John, whom I beheaded" refers to John the Baptist, a prophet and forerunner of Christ, who was executed by Herod. The phrase underscores Herod's personal responsibility for John's death, highlighting his moral culpability. The act of beheading was a brutal form of execution, often reserved for criminals and political threats. Herod's admission here is significant, as it shows his recognition of John's righteousness and the weight of his own sin. This acknowledgment of guilt is a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the haunting nature of a guilty conscience.

has been raised from the dead!
The phrase "has been raised from the dead!" reflects Herod's superstitious fear and misunderstanding of Jesus' identity. In the Jewish context, resurrection was a concept associated with divine intervention and the end times. Herod's exclamation reveals his fear that John has returned to seek vengeance or continue his prophetic mission. This belief in resurrection, though misguided, points to the broader theme of life after death and the power of God to overcome death. Herod's fear contrasts with the Christian hope in the resurrection, which is central to the Gospel message and the promise of eternal life through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Herod Antipas
The tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, son of Herod the Great. He is known for his role in the execution of John the Baptist and his interactions with Jesus.

2. John the Baptist
A prophet and forerunner of Jesus Christ, known for his call to repentance and baptism. He was beheaded by Herod Antipas.

3. The Beheading of John
An event where John the Baptist was executed by Herod Antipas, influenced by Herodias, Herod's unlawful wife, and her daughter.

4. Galilee
The region where Herod Antipas ruled and where much of Jesus' ministry took place.

5. Herodias
The wife of Herod Antipas, formerly married to his brother Philip. She held a grudge against John for condemning her marriage to Herod.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sinful Choices
Herod's decision to behead John was influenced by his unlawful relationship with Herodias and his desire to please others. This serves as a warning about the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance.

The Power of a Guilty Conscience
Herod's fear that John had been raised from the dead reveals the power of a guilty conscience. It reminds us of the need for confession and seeking God's forgiveness.

The Cost of Discipleship
John the Baptist's martyrdom exemplifies the potential cost of following God's call. Believers are encouraged to stand firm in their faith, even in the face of persecution.

God's Sovereignty in Persecution
Despite Herod's actions, God's purposes were not thwarted. This reassures believers that God remains sovereign, even when facing trials and opposition.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Herod's reaction to hearing about Jesus reflect his internal struggle and guilt over John's death?

2. In what ways can we see the consequences of Herod's sinful choices in our own lives, and how can we seek to avoid similar pitfalls?

3. How does the account of John the Baptist's martyrdom challenge us to consider the cost of discipleship in our own lives?

4. What can we learn from Herod's guilty conscience about the importance of confession and seeking forgiveness?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty in the midst of persecution encourage us in our faith journey today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 14:1-12
Provides a parallel account of Herod's fear and the circumstances leading to John's beheading.

Luke 9:7-9
Describes Herod's perplexity about Jesus' identity, linking it to his guilt over John's death.

Acts 12:1-2
Another Herod, Herod Agrippa I, also persecutes the early church, showing a pattern of hostility from the Herodian dynasty towards God's messengers.

Hebrews 11:35-38
Highlights the faith and suffering of prophets, including those like John the Baptist, who were martyred for their faith.