Why did Herod like to listen to John the Baptist, who criticized Herod’s lifestyle? (Mark 6:20)
Mark 6:17-20 says, 17 "For it was Herod who had sent and seized John and a bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because he had married her. 18 For John had been saying to Herod, 'It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.' 19 And Herodias had a grudge against him and wanted to put him to death. But she could not, 20 for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he kept him safe. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed, and yet he heard him gladly."
Mark 6:14 - 29
ESV - 14 King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known. Some said, "John the Baptist has been raised from the dead. That is why these miraculous powers are at work in him. 15 But others said, "He is Elijah." And others said, "He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.
Clarify
•
Share
•
Report
•
Asked February 23 2023
•
Jack Gutknecht
Community answers are sorted based on votes. The higher the vote, the further up an answer is.
Tim Maas
I would say that Herod was like the stony or thorny ground of which Jesus spoke in His parable of the sower (Matthew 13:3-9). Herod was not completely without a conscience or reciptivity to John's preaching (even when John was criticizing Herod's sinful actions), but he was too attached to the "fruits" of those actions (his worldly power and his marriage to Herodias) to allow John's preaching to "take root" in his mind, especially if fully turning to God would require him to give up the perquisites of his position.
Add your Answer
All answers are REVIEWED and MODERATED.
Please ensure your answer MEETS all our guidelines.
A good answer provides new insight and perspective. Here are guidelines to help facilitate a meaningful learning experience for everyone.
- Adhere to the eBible Statement of Faith.
- Your answer should be complete and stand-alone.
- Include supporting arguments, and scripture references if possible. Seek to answer the "why".
- Adhere to a proper tone and spirit of love and understanding.
- For more info see The Complete Guide to eBible