Lessons From The Herods In The Bible

LESSONS FROM THE HERODS IN THE BIBLE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Matthew 2:1-18, Mark 6:14-29, Acts 12:1-23

Supporting Texts: Luke 23:1-25, Acts 12:20-23, Revelation 19:11-21

INTRODUCTION:

The Herods in the Bible represent a family line known for their tyrannical rule and opposition to God’s purposes. While there are several Herods mentioned in Scripture, the key figures include Herod the Great, Herod Antipas, and Herod Agrippa. Each of them displayed various characteristics of pride, fear, and rebellion that provide vital lessons for us today. Their stories serve as warnings against the dangers of greed, manipulation, and the rejection of divine truth. This study will delve into the lives of the Herods and uncover the lessons we can learn from their actions.

1. HEROD THE GREAT: A MAN OF FEAR AND PARANOIA

a) Fear of Losing Power

Herod the Great was deeply fearful of losing his throne, which led him to commit horrific acts, such as the massacre of innocent children in Bethlehem.

b) Pride and Self-Interest

Herod’s pride and desire to secure his rule led him to manipulate both people and situations, including his brutal handling of political rivals and family members.

c) Failure to Acknowledge Christ

Despite his knowledge of the prophecy of a coming King, Herod rejected the idea of Christ's birth as a threat to his power rather than accepting Him as Lord.

d) The Cost of Opposing God’s Plan

Herod’s opposition to God’s purpose for the birth of Jesus ultimately led to his downfall and judgment.

e) Biblical Example: The Massacre of the Innocents (Matthew 2:16)

Herod’s fear of losing his kingship led him to order the slaughter of all male children in Bethlehem, fulfilling the prophecy of the suffering Messiah but sealing his own tragic legacy.

2. HEROD ANTIPAS: A MAN OF COMPLACENCY AND SELFISHNESS

a) Indifference to God’s Word

Herod Antipas was indifferent to the message of John the Baptist, even though he recognized John’s righteousness and fear of God. He listened, but he never acted on the truth.

b) Manipulation and Deception

Herod Antipas allowed his desires and selfish ambition to dictate his actions, even leading him to imprison John and later have him beheaded to fulfill a promise made to his stepdaughter.

c) The Power of Fear in Leadership

His decision to execute John was driven by fear of looking weak in front of his guests and not wanting to lose face, rather than upholding righteousness.

d) Consequences of Disobedience

Herod Antipas’ decision to oppose the voice of righteousness ultimately led to the loss of his kingdom and disgrace.

e) Biblical Example: The Beheading of John the Baptist (Mark 6:14-29)

Herod’s manipulation and indecision led to the beheading of John the Baptist. Despite knowing that John was a man of God, Herod chose to honor his oath rather than obey God’s truth.

3. HEROD AGRIPPA I: A MAN OF PRIDE AND EGO

a) Arrogance and Self-Exaltation

Herod Agrippa I sought the admiration of the people and allowed his pride to grow, ultimately leading him to accept worship as a god.

b) Rejecting Humility

When the people declared him a god, Agrippa accepted their flattery, showing his prideful disregard for God’s glory.

c) The Dangers of Seeking Human Approval

Herod Agrippa sought the approval of men rather than seeking God’s approval, which led to his tragic death.

d) Divine Judgment for Pride

Agrippa’s refusal to humble himself before God led to his death by divine judgment, where he was struck down by an angel of the Lord.

e) Biblical Example: Herod’s Death (Acts 12:20-23)

Herod Agrippa I, after accepting divine worship, was struck down by an angel of the Lord and died, a vivid reminder of the consequences of pride.

4. THE DANGERS OF REJECTION OF GOD'S PLAN

a) Rejecting God’s Word Leads to Destruction

The Herods repeatedly rejected God’s will, choosing their own power and selfish desires over divine truth, which led to their demise.

b) Pride and Selfish Ambition Over Divine Purpose

Each Herod family member exemplified the dangers of elevating self over God, making choices that contradicted God’s divine purposes.

c) The Cost of Disobedience

Their actions resulted in not only personal loss but also affected those around them, including innocent lives lost due to their decisions.

d) The Call for Humility and Submission to God's Will.

God’s kingdom is built on humility, submission, and obedience to His will. The Herods teach us the importance of surrendering our will to God’s plan for our lives.

e) Biblical Example: Herod’s Rejection of the Messiah (Matthew 2:3)

Herod’s rejection of Christ as the Messiah, driven by his desire to maintain control, led to tragic consequences, including the suffering of innocent children and the thwarting of God’s plan.

5. LESSONS ON LEADERSHIP AND CHARACTER FROM THE HERODS

a) The Danger of Leadership Without Integrity