Mark 6:29   The ministry of John is highlighted by his followers. We often miss the fact that he was the greatest among the prophets. His greatness is so completely overshadowed by Christ. But, herein lies a lesson. If the greatest of human ministers is overshadowed by the Lord, should not we expect that in every…

Mark 6:28   This is one of several passages of Scripture that help assure us that the state of our body at the time of the resurrection will not matter. Though Christian burial is to be preferred, and is a sign of faith, dismemberment and other atrocities do not in any way hinder our future hope.…

Mark 6:27   The Herods are not known for their mercy. This act, however heinous, was not out of keeping with what the Tetrarch’s family was known for. 1 Kings 8:1-9:28 James 1:27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself…

Mark 6:26He was sorry, yes, but it was an empty sorrow in that one who would make such rash choices might only expect such outcomes. And, his sorrow was likely short lived since his piety was more of a show than a true practice. 1 Kings 6:1-7:51 James 1:26 If any man among you seem…

Mark 6:25   The daughter quickly executes the mother’s bidding. By and by here indicates it was to be done shortly, not at some uncertain date. 1 Kings 3:1-5:18 James 1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man…

Mark 6:24   Evil is an unorganized kingdom. Though the evil one does have his officers, any order in his kingdom is only a virtual plan based on selfishness. He must use ways and means to keep his kingdom running. He cannot simply inspire obedience as Christ may.   Herodias acts in her own selfishness, and yet…

Mark 6:23   This was a way of offering her membership in his inner circle. In other words, it was meant as a way to coerce her into spending more time in his presence. A young person in her position might try to find a king or powerful official of some kind to marry. Instead, Herod…

Mark 6:22   It is difficult to know what kind of dance this was, but given the fact that Herod had married his brother’s wife, no kind of foolishness might be held up by him. And, his offer to her is foolish and unseemly for him to make. 2 Samuel 20:1-22:51 James 1:22 But be ye doers…

Mark 6:21   Herod likely took many opportunities to have feasts, or parties, of one kind or another. Of course, on his own birthday he would be likely to be even more merry than at other times. 2 Samuel 17:1-19:43 James 1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted…

Mark 6:20   The truth almost took hold in Herod’s heart. But, the gospel found stony ground there. Indeed, it seems many political leaders in the Bible found the gospel intriguing, but few accepted it. 2 Samuel 14:1-16:23 James 1:20 For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. Heavenly Father, may we always use…