Mark 6:17

For Herod himself had ordered that John be arrested and bound and imprisoned, on account of his brother Philip's wife Herodias, whom Herod had married.

Study Bible

For Herod himself had ordered
Herod Antipas, a tetrarch of Galilee and Perea, was a son of Herod the Great. He ruled during the time of Jesus' ministry. Herod's authority to order arrests reflects his political power, though he was ultimately subject to Roman oversight. His actions often mirrored the political intrigue and moral corruption of the Herodian dynasty.

that John be arrested and bound and imprisoned
John the Baptist, a prophetic figure, was known for his bold preaching and call to repentance. His arrest signifies the tension between prophetic truth and political power. Binding and imprisoning John highlights the threat he posed to Herod's authority and the moral challenge he presented to Herod's lifestyle. This act foreshadows the eventual persecution of Jesus and His followers.

on account of his brother Philip’s wife Herodias
Herodias was originally married to Herod's half-brother, Herod Philip. Her marriage to Herod Antipas was both politically and morally controversial, as it violated Jewish law (Leviticus 18:16, 20:21). Herodias' ambition and influence are evident in her role in John's imprisonment and later execution, reflecting the complex familial and political dynamics of the Herodian family.

whom Herod had married
Herod's marriage to Herodias was not only a personal decision but also a political maneuver. This union was seen as illegitimate by Jewish standards, and John the Baptist openly condemned it. Herod's willingness to marry Herodias despite the controversy underscores his disregard for Jewish law and foreshadows the moral and ethical challenges faced by leaders who prioritize power over righteousness.

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 imprisonment and execution of John the Baptist.

2. John the Baptist
A prophet and forerunner of Jesus Christ, known for his call to repentance and baptism. He was imprisoned by Herod Antipas for condemning Herod's unlawful marriage.

3. Herodias
The wife of Herod's brother Philip, whom Herod unlawfully married. Herodias held a grudge against John the Baptist for speaking against her marriage to Herod.

4. Philip
Herod's brother, originally married to Herodias. His marriage to Herodias was considered lawful, unlike her subsequent marriage to Herod.

5. Prison
The place where John the Baptist was held captive by Herod Antipas. This imprisonment eventually led to John's execution.

Teaching Points

The Cost of Righteousness
John the Baptist's imprisonment reminds us that standing for God's truth can lead to personal sacrifice and persecution. Believers are called to uphold righteousness, even when it is unpopular or dangerous.

The Danger of Unrepentant Sin
Herod's unlawful marriage to Herodias illustrates how sin can lead to further moral compromise and destructive consequences. It is crucial to address sin with repentance and seek God's forgiveness.

The Power of Influence
Herodias' influence over Herod demonstrates how relationships can impact our decisions. We must be cautious about the influences we allow in our lives and ensure they align with God's will.

The Role of Prophetic Voices
John the Baptist's role as a prophet highlights the importance of speaking God's truth to power. Believers are called to be prophetic voices in their communities, advocating for justice and righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. What can we learn from John the Baptist's response to Herod's unlawful marriage about standing for truth in today's society?

2. How does Herod's relationship with Herodias illustrate the consequences of ignoring God's laws? Can you think of modern examples where similar situations occur?

3. In what ways can we ensure that the influences in our lives align with biblical principles, as opposed to leading us away from God's truth?

4. How does the account of John the Baptist's imprisonment challenge us to be bold in our faith, even when facing opposition or persecution?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a difficult decision to uphold righteousness. How did that experience shape your faith and relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 14:3-4
This passage provides a parallel account of John the Baptist's imprisonment, emphasizing Herod's unlawful marriage to Herodias.

Leviticus 18:16
This Old Testament law forbids marrying a brother's wife, highlighting the sinfulness of Herod's actions according to Jewish law.

Luke 3:19-20
Another account of John's imprisonment, which underscores his boldness in speaking against Herod's sin.