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Luke 23:1-12 – Herod

There is not a word of truth in the accusations that the Jews make against Jesus. They are trying to persuade Pilate that Jesus is leading a rebellion against Caesar, and they hope that this Roman governor will panic and get rid of Jesus for them. False witnesses and slander are two favourite weapons of Satan. He has been a liar from the beginning and is still the father of lies. If he can’t stop God’s work, he tries to destroy the character of God’s servants and ruin their testimony. Christians should not be surprised when they face treatment like Christ’s. The most blameless character will not keep us safe from lying tongues, and like Christ, we must bear this treatment patiently, believing that in the long run, truth will prevail.

The hearts of unbelievers are a mess of conflicting desires. Herod is a good example. Here is a man who loves the world, has murdered John the Baptist, and is living in adultery with his brother’s wife. We’d think he’d have no desire to see Christ. But he has an uneasy conscience and a lot of curiosity. He has heard of Jesus’ miracles and teaching, and he wants to see it for himself. There are many people whose guilty consciences and curiosity bring them to church, but sadly they never get any further. Their hearts are still tied to the world, and despite their on-again, off-again interest in spiritual things, they never turn to Christ for salvation.

We don’t know why Herod and Pilate are enemies. Whatever the reason, it is put aside when a common object of fear and hatred is put in front of them. Whatever else they disagree about, Pilate and Herod can agree to despise and persecute Christ. Again, this applies to unbelievers today. Men of completely different opinions can unite in attacking the Gospel and those who bring the Gospel.

Questions

  1. What are the Jews trying to persuade Pilate of?
  2. Why does Herod want to see Christ?

Prayer Points

  1. Pray for Christians being persecuted in other countries.
  2. Use prayer points from your congregation.
  3. Pray for family matters.