Mark 6:14-29
In this week’s reading of the Gospel of Mark, Mark 6:14-29 recounts the story of the beheading of John the Baptist. Here are the key points of this passage:
Herod's fear: Herod Antipas, the ruler of Galilee, hears about the miracles and teachings of Jesus and is troubled by them. He fears that Jesus might be John the Baptist risen from the dead.
John the Baptist's fate: The passage then delves into a flashback, narrating the events that led to John the Baptist's death. Herod had initially imprisoned John because John had publicly denounced Herod's marriage to Herodias, who was previously married to Herod's brother Philip.
Herod's birthday feast: Herodias' daughter performs a dance at Herod's birthday feast, pleasing Herod greatly. In his drunken state, Herod makes a rash promise to give her whatever she wants, up to half his kingdom.
The request for John's head: Prompted by her mother, the daughter asks for John the Baptist's head on a platter.
Herod's dilemma: Although Herod regrets making the promise, he feels bound by his oath and orders John's execution to fulfill it.
John's beheading: John the Baptist is beheaded in prison, and his head is brought on a platter and given to the girl, who then gives it to her mother.
Reaction of John's disciples: John's disciples retrieve his body and bury it before going to inform Jesus.
This passage highlights themes of power, intrigue, betrayal, and the consequences of rash promises. It also underscores the persecution faced by those who stand for righteousness and speak truth to power. In just and right world we would expect that those who stand for righteousness and speak truth to prevail, but this passage demonstrates just how broken our world is. John the Baptist was murdered not because he had done something wrong but because others chose not to do what is right.
In God’s grip,
Pastor Chuck Church.
If you are reading the Gospel of Mark with Pastor Chuck this year, below is a short and simple guide to doing so for this week:
Prayer: Heavenly Father, your words expose my innermost thoughts and desires. I am an open book before you when I read your book. May your truths work as I read of your holiness, truth, and love. May the power of your word be known in my life so that I might genuinely have the abundant life you came to give. Amen.
Read: Mark 6:14-29
Questions to guide your thinking:
Ethical considerations: How do you interpret Herod's actions in this passage? Do you think he was justified in ordering John the Baptist's execution to fulfill a rash promise made under the influence of alcohol and pressure?
What do you think motivated Herod to imprison John the Baptist in the first place, despite being intrigued by his teachings? How does Herod's character contribute to the events that unfold?
What role does Herodias play in the story, and what motivations might she have had for wanting John the Baptist dead? How does her influence shape the narrative?
Reflecting on John's boldness in speaking out against Herod's marriage, what does this reveal about his commitment to righteousness and truth? How does his unwavering stance impact the unfolding events?
How does the passage illustrate power dynamics between rulers like Herod and religious figures like John the Baptist? What insights does it offer into the challenges faced by prophets and truth-speakers in confronting those in authority?
Consider the consequences of Herod's rash promise and subsequent decision to execute John the Baptist. What lessons can be gleaned from this about the dangers of acting impulsively and the weight of one's words?
What does the reaction of John's disciples, who retrieve his body and inform Jesus, reveal about their loyalty, grief, and faith? How might their response contrast with the actions of Herod and his court?
