Antipas, one of Herod the Great’s sons, began as a tetrarch*over Galilee & Pereia. He was the ruling Herod during Jesus time. His reign would be from 4 B.C. - A.D. 39. Not being a man of honor, he stole his half-brother Philip’s wife Herodias. They eloped leaving his wife alone.
Herod Antipas was the one that had John the Baptist beheaded at the behest of Salome, the daughter of Herod Philip. When someone makes a promise, especially one in a ruling position, it must be honored. Even though Antipas seemed to somewhat like John the Baptist, he had him arrested and subsequently executed. The reasoning for these actions were to stop John’s constant verbal reminders that Antipas marriage to Herodias was a sin. John was relentless, making sure the ruler knew that his actions were against the one true God’s standards for living.
Antipas had several meetings with Jesus. The Lord’s popularity and miraculous powers caused the ruler to consider Jesus as being the reincarnation of John. While this was not at all true, it prayed on Antipas’ mind, causing him much consternation.
During the trial of Jesus, Antipas was to decide the Lord’s fate, yet could find nothing in the charges against Jesus that warranted death. He sent Jesus back from whence he had come, namely Pontius Pilate.
Herod Antipas had enough problems to deal with that he didn’t need to get involved with the whole ‘Jesus thing’. For one, Arêtes, the Nabatean king whose daughter had been Antipas’ wife before he became involved with Herodias, decided to avenge this grievous insult. Antipas’ troops were unceremoniously defeated. This, along with some other problems, led to his political downfall. Antipas was finally banished by the Roman emperor to an obscure section of France.
There are two particular lessons we can learn from Herod Antipas’ life. First, a life motivated by ambition is usually characterized by self-destruction. And secondly, opportunities to do good usually come to us in the form of choices that need to be made.
Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.
In His name & for His glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Resource: The Life Application Study Bible
* A subordinate ruler. Belonging to a lower or inferior class or rank; secondary. Subject to the authority or control of another.
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