Who Is Jesus?
Now, King Herod, the tetrarch, head of all this, was perplexed, for Jesus’ name became well known, and some said: “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and thus fears of power are performed by him.” But others said: “It is Elijah.” Yet others said: “A prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago, came back to life”. But when Herod heard of it, he said, “Him whom I beheaded, John – this one has been raised.” (Mark 6:14-16, Luke 9:7-9, Matthew 14:1-2)
For Herod himself had sent and arrested John and bound him in prison on account of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip, because he had married her. For John said to Herod, “It is unlawful for you to have the wife of your brother.” Herodias resented him and wished to kill him and could not. For Herod was afraid of John, knowing him to be an upright and holy man; the people considered him a prophet. Herod protected John and was very much at a loss when listening to him, yet listened to him with pleasure. (Mark 6:17-20, Matthew 14:3-5)
Death of John The Baptist
Eventually, an opportune day arrived when Herod, for his birthday celebration, produced a banquet for his high officials, their military commanders, and the foremost men of Galilee. When Herodias’ own daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and those reclining at the table together. The king said to the little girl, “Ask of me whatever you desire, and I will give it to you.” He swore to her, “Whatever you ask, I will give you up to half my kingdom.” Then, stepping out, she said to her mother, “What should I request?” She said, “The head of John the one who baptizes.” Immediately hastening into the king, she made the request, saying, “I wish that you should at once give me the head of John the Baptist on a trencher.” (Mark 6:21-25, Matthew 14:6-8)
He became greatly distressed and did not wish to refuse her on account of his oath and those reclining at the table. And immediately, the king ordered her request be granted and a guard to bring his head. Going away, he had John beheaded in prison, and brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the little girl, and the little girl gave it to her mother. Hearing of this, the disciples came and took away his corpse and placed it in a tomb. Then they went and told Jesus. (Mark 6:26-29, Matthew 14:9-12)
