SUMMARY
Herod jails leaders of the JesusJesus is the Messiah whose life, death, and resurrection are God's saving act for humanity. movement, finding that aggressive behavior pleases the local crowds. After killing James and imprisoning PeterPeter (also known as Cephas, Simon Peter) was the disciple who denied Jesus during his trial but later became a leader in proclaiming Jesus., Herod himself dies because of his prideful acceptance of the crowds’ idolatrous acclamation.
ANALYSIS
The story of the death of Herod (Herod Agrippa I, the grandson of Herod the GreatKing over Judea at the time of Jesus' birth.) points out that any who would exalt themselves to the level of God will pay the price for their blasphemyBlasphemy is disrespecting or dishonoring of something held sacred. To use the name of God in swearing or to commit a profane act is to commit blasphemy. and “fighting against God” (Acts 5:39). In 12:1-4, Herod’s character is revealed by his behavior toward the followers of Jesus, including two of the Twelve. He turns to murderous execution, seeking the favor of the crowd and utterly failing to consider what might be right, true, or godly. Like the unjust judge in LukeThe "beloved physician" and companion of Paul. 18:1-8, Herod has no regard for God or for his fellow human beings, not even the guards at the jailhouse he executes for allowing Peter’s escape (Acts 12:19). Herod’s heedless, self-serving behavior betrays his deep flaw: the propensity to think of himself as God and not a man. When the crowds praise him, shouting, “The voice of a god, and not of a mortal” (12:22), Herod does not stop them and dies miserably. Herod’s pride is the opposite of the humble behavior exhibited by Peter in 10:26 and BarnabasChristian missionary and companion of Paul on his early journeys. and PaulThe Apostle Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was the author of several New Testament letters and the founder of many Christian communities. in 14:14-18.
