“But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done, added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.” (Luke 3:19-20 KJV).
These passages gave a glimpse into the political and social landscape of the time, reflective of our present time. The reproof mentioned in these verses refer to the public confrontation between Herod and John the Baptist. He boldly chastised Herod for his unlawful marriage to Herodias, who was his sister-in-law. This marriage was not only a violation of Jewish law but also a scandalous and immoral act that was widely condemned then and as well as in today’s social norms. John the Baptist's reproof of Herod's actions reflects his observance to uphold the moral and ethical demands of the law, and his willingness to speak truth to power without fear.
It’s been said that our true character is revealed in what we do and who we are when no one is watching. For most of us, that statement is probably true. However, there is another test of truth and truth-telling. Will we tell the truth to everyone, even those who have power over us and who don't want us to say it? One of the stark reminders of Satan's reality in the world is the long line of martyrs for the cause of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God. With the Lord himself at the head of that line, the line includes John the Baptist, who tells the truth to the powerful King Herod, just as he did with common and powerless people. He demonstrates integrity and courage. Thankfully, in our long story of faith, many others have followed John's example. May God give us the grace to do the same if we are tempted or threatened not to tell the truth.
Yes, John the Baptist was jailed by King Herod for declaring the truth. But, we have the Lord’s assurance that in the fullness of His grace, in Christ Jesus by faith, we have liberty. Yes, John may have been jailed. But, in the truth that he knew and standing on, he is set free! It is written: “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”” (John 8:31-32 ESV).
And I say, AMEN!
Daily reflections by:
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
F. A. Frias
PFC Ministries
When God says... I say, AMEN! is a provocative reflection of the Lord's holy Word. It intends to challenge every seeker of truth to dig deep into the core of the Word of Life to point every being to Christ Jesus - the author and finisher of our faith, and to draw revelations for change, for nourishment and for strength of every soul.
Partners For Christ Ministries, INC
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Touching lives in Cambodia, The Philippines, The Middle East, The USA, and... other countries.
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